OpenPLC vs GX Works3
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
OpenPLC
OpenPLC Project (Open Source)
Completely FREE - no costs ever
GX Works3
Mitsubishi Electric
User-friendly interface, easier learning curve
Overall Winner
GX Works3 leads with an overall score of 81/100
GX Works3 is the stronger overall choice with better community support. However, OpenPLC may be preferable if you prioritize pricing or if you're already committed to the OpenPLC Project (Open Source) ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | OpenPLC | GX Works3 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 55 | 81✓ |
| Pricing | 100✓ | 75 |
| Ease of Use | 50 | 80✓ |
| Features | 63 | 86✓ |
| Industry Adoption | 18 | 80✓ |
| Community Support | 94✓ | 91 |
| Career Value | 23 | 74✓ |
💰Pricing Comparison
OpenPLC (free) is significantly more affordable than GX Works3 ($$). OpenPLC costs between $0 and $0, while GX Works3 ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
📚Learning Curve
GX Works3 (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than OpenPLC (rated 6/10). GX Works3 typically takes 1-3 months to learn, while OpenPLC requires 3-6 months. This makes GX Works3 better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
OpenPLC offers 11 key features. GX Works3 provides 11 key features with safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
GX Works3 has 65% market adoption compared to OpenPLC's 10%. GX Works3 dominates in Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, while OpenPLC is strongest in Global (primarily education and research). GX Works3's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
OpenPLC is designed specifically for Generic/Open Hardware hardware, while GX Works3 works with Mitsubishi Electric PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
GX Works3 offers stronger career prospects with 65% market adoption and official certification programs. OpenPLC has 10% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, GX Works3 expertise is more in-demand.
OpenPLC Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Completely FREE - no costs ever
- ✓Open source - fully customizable
- ✓Runs on inexpensive hardware (Raspberry Pi)
- ✓Perfect for learning without financial investment
Limitations
- ✗Not suitable for commercial/industrial use
- ✗No official support (community only)
- ✗Limited features compared to commercial PLCs
Best For
GX Works3 Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓User-friendly interface, easier learning curve
- ✓More affordable than competitors
- ✓Strong in Asia-Pacific market
- ✓Good simulation capabilities
Limitations
- ✗Less common in North America
- ✗Smaller community compared to Siemens/Rockwell
- ✗Limited third-party integration
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
GX Works3
For Professionals
GX Works3
Budget-Constrained
OpenPLC
Enterprise Use
GX Works3
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: OpenPLC or GX Works3?
GX Works3 is the stronger overall choice with better community support. However, OpenPLC may be preferable if you prioritize pricing or if you're already committed to the OpenPLC Project (Open Source) ecosystem.
What is the price difference between OpenPLC and GX Works3?
OpenPLC (free) is significantly more affordable than GX Works3 ($$). OpenPLC costs between $0 and $0, while GX Works3 ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
Which is easier to learn: OpenPLC or GX Works3?
GX Works3 (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than OpenPLC (rated 6/10). GX Works3 typically takes 1-3 months to learn, while OpenPLC requires 3-6 months. This makes GX Works3 better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
GX Works3 offers stronger career prospects with 65% market adoption and official certification programs. OpenPLC has 10% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, GX Works3 expertise is more in-demand.