OpenPLC vs PLCnext
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
OpenPLC
OpenPLC Project (Open Source)
Completely FREE - no costs ever
PLCnext
Phoenix Contact
FREE programming software
Overall Winner
PLCnext leads with an overall score of 64/100
PLCnext is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. 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 | PLCnext |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 55 | 64✓ |
| Pricing | 100 | 100 |
| Ease of Use | 50✓ | 40 |
| Features | 63 | 69✓ |
| Industry Adoption | 18 | 38✓ |
| Community Support | 94 | 94 |
| Career Value | 23 | 58✓ |
💰Pricing Comparison
OpenPLC (free) is significantly more affordable than PLCnext ($). OpenPLC costs between $0 and $0, while PLCnext ranges from $0 to $2,000.
📚Learning Curve
OpenPLC (rated 6/10) is easier to learn than PLCnext (rated 7/10). OpenPLC typically takes 3-6 months to learn, while PLCnext requires 4-8 months. This makes OpenPLC better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
OpenPLC offers 11 key features. PLCnext provides 11 key features with motion control. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
PLCnext has 25% market adoption compared to OpenPLC's 10%. PLCnext dominates in Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, while OpenPLC is strongest in Global (primarily education and research). PLCnext's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
OpenPLC is designed specifically for Generic/Open Hardware hardware, while PLCnext works with Phoenix Contact PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
PLCnext offers stronger career prospects with 25% market adoption and official certification programs. OpenPLC has 10% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, PLCnext 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
PLCnext Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓FREE programming software
- ✓Open, modern architecture
- ✓Multiple programming language support
- ✓IoT and Industry 4.0 ready
Limitations
- ✗Relatively new platform (limited adoption)
- ✗Small user community
- ✗Fewer job postings
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
Both are suitable
For Professionals
Both are suitable
Budget-Constrained
Both are suitable
Enterprise Use
PLCnext
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: OpenPLC or PLCnext?
PLCnext is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. 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 PLCnext?
OpenPLC (free) is significantly more affordable than PLCnext ($). OpenPLC costs between $0 and $0, while PLCnext ranges from $0 to $2,000.
Which is easier to learn: OpenPLC or PLCnext?
OpenPLC (rated 6/10) is easier to learn than PLCnext (rated 7/10). OpenPLC typically takes 3-6 months to learn, while PLCnext requires 4-8 months. This makes OpenPLC better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
PLCnext offers stronger career prospects with 25% market adoption and official certification programs. OpenPLC has 10% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, PLCnext expertise is more in-demand.