LogixPro vs RSLogix 500/5000
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
LogixPro
The Learning Pit
Extremely affordable (~$50 for students)
RSLogix 500/5000
Rockwell Automation / Allen-Bradley (Legacy)
Massive installed base - many jobs still require it
Overall Winner
RSLogix 500/5000 leads with an overall score of 76/100
RSLogix 500/5000 is the stronger overall choice with better community support. However, LogixPro may be preferable if you prioritize ease of use or if you're already committed to the The Learning Pit ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | LogixPro | RSLogix 500/5000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 51 | 76✓ |
| Pricing | 95✓ | 70 |
| Ease of Use | 100✓ | 60 |
| Features | 40 | 74✓ |
| Industry Adoption | 15 | 85✓ |
| Community Support | 60 | 100✓ |
| Career Value | 16 | 74✓ |
💰Pricing Comparison
LogixPro ($) is significantly more affordable than RSLogix 500/5000 ($$). LogixPro costs between $50 and $100, while RSLogix 500/5000 ranges from $1,000 to $10,000.
📚Learning Curve
LogixPro (rated 2/10) is easier to learn than RSLogix 500/5000 (rated 5/10). LogixPro typically takes 2-4 weeks to learn, while RSLogix 500/5000 requires 2-4 months. This makes LogixPro better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
LogixPro offers 10 key features. RSLogix 500/5000 provides 10 key features with safety programming, motion control. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
RSLogix 500/5000 has 75% market adoption compared to LogixPro's 5%. RSLogix 500/5000 dominates in North America, Latin America, while LogixPro is strongest in Global (education only). RSLogix 500/5000's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
LogixPro is designed specifically for Simulation only (Allen-Bradley emulation) hardware, while RSLogix 500/5000 works with Allen-Bradley, Rockwell Automation PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
RSLogix 500/5000 offers stronger career prospects with 75% market adoption and official certification programs. LogixPro has 5% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, RSLogix 500/5000 expertise is more in-demand.
LogixPro Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Extremely affordable (~$50 for students)
- ✓Perfect for absolute beginners
- ✓No hardware needed to learn
- ✓Realistic simulation environment
Limitations
- ✗Simulation only - not for real PLCs
- ✗Limited to Allen-Bradley/RSLogix style ladder logic
- ✗No advanced features (motion, safety, networking)
Best For
RSLogix 500/5000 Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Massive installed base - many jobs still require it
- ✓Well-understood and documented
- ✓Stable, mature platform
- ✓Simpler interface than Studio 5000 for basic tasks
Limitations
- ✗No longer actively developed (legacy software)
- ✗Being phased out in favor of Studio 5000
- ✗Won't work with newer PLC hardware
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
LogixPro
For Professionals
RSLogix 500/5000
Budget-Constrained
LogixPro
Enterprise Use
RSLogix 500/5000
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: LogixPro or RSLogix 500/5000?
RSLogix 500/5000 is the stronger overall choice with better community support. However, LogixPro may be preferable if you prioritize ease of use or if you're already committed to the The Learning Pit ecosystem.
What is the price difference between LogixPro and RSLogix 500/5000?
LogixPro ($) is significantly more affordable than RSLogix 500/5000 ($$). LogixPro costs between $50 and $100, while RSLogix 500/5000 ranges from $1,000 to $10,000.
Which is easier to learn: LogixPro or RSLogix 500/5000?
LogixPro (rated 2/10) is easier to learn than RSLogix 500/5000 (rated 5/10). LogixPro typically takes 2-4 weeks to learn, while RSLogix 500/5000 requires 2-4 months. This makes LogixPro better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
RSLogix 500/5000 offers stronger career prospects with 75% market adoption and official certification programs. LogixPro has 5% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, RSLogix 500/5000 expertise is more in-demand.