Quick Overview
- 1#1: TIA Portal - Comprehensive engineering framework for programming, configuring, and diagnosing Siemens SIMATIC PLCs and automation systems.
- 2#2: Studio 5000 Logix Designer - Integrated development environment for programming Allen-Bradley Logix family PLCs with advanced motion control and safety features.
- 3#3: CODESYS Development System - IEC 61131-3 compliant IDE supporting multiple PLC hardware vendors with modular runtime and visualization tools.
- 4#4: EcoStruxure Control Expert - Full-featured programming software for Modicon PLCs offering system configuration, simulation, and cybersecurity integration.
- 5#5: TwinCAT 3 - Real-time PLC engineering environment running on Windows with support for EtherCAT, motion control, and measurement functions.
- 6#6: Automation Studio - Integrated software suite for B&R PLCs providing programming, visualization, motion, and safety application development.
- 7#7: Sysmac Studio - Unified programming platform for Omron NJ/NX-series PLCs with integrated HMI, motion, and database connectivity.
- 8#8: GX Works3 - Advanced engineering software for MELSEC iQ-R and Q series PLCs featuring structured ladder logic and simulation capabilities.
- 9#9: Automation Builder - Modular IDE based on CODESYS for ABB PLCs supporting engineering, commissioning, and diagnostics across automation devices.
- 10#10: ISPSoft - Programming software for Delta PLCs with ladder diagram, function block, and structured text editing plus simulation tools.
These tools were selected based on technical feature robustness, user experience, reliability, and value, ensuring they address diverse industrial needs across programming, simulation, and connectivity.
Comparison Table
Explore a curated comparison of top PLC software tools, including TIA Portal, Studio 5000 Logix Designer, CODESYS, EcoStruxure Control Expert, and TwinCAT 3, to understand their key features, compatibility, and ideal use cases for informed decision-making.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TIA Portal Comprehensive engineering framework for programming, configuring, and diagnosing Siemens SIMATIC PLCs and automation systems. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Studio 5000 Logix Designer Integrated development environment for programming Allen-Bradley Logix family PLCs with advanced motion control and safety features. | enterprise | 8.9/10 | 9.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | CODESYS Development System IEC 61131-3 compliant IDE supporting multiple PLC hardware vendors with modular runtime and visualization tools. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 4 | EcoStruxure Control Expert Full-featured programming software for Modicon PLCs offering system configuration, simulation, and cybersecurity integration. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | TwinCAT 3 Real-time PLC engineering environment running on Windows with support for EtherCAT, motion control, and measurement functions. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 6 | Automation Studio Integrated software suite for B&R PLCs providing programming, visualization, motion, and safety application development. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Sysmac Studio Unified programming platform for Omron NJ/NX-series PLCs with integrated HMI, motion, and database connectivity. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | GX Works3 Advanced engineering software for MELSEC iQ-R and Q series PLCs featuring structured ladder logic and simulation capabilities. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 9 | Automation Builder Modular IDE based on CODESYS for ABB PLCs supporting engineering, commissioning, and diagnostics across automation devices. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | ISPSoft Programming software for Delta PLCs with ladder diagram, function block, and structured text editing plus simulation tools. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
Comprehensive engineering framework for programming, configuring, and diagnosing Siemens SIMATIC PLCs and automation systems.
Integrated development environment for programming Allen-Bradley Logix family PLCs with advanced motion control and safety features.
IEC 61131-3 compliant IDE supporting multiple PLC hardware vendors with modular runtime and visualization tools.
Full-featured programming software for Modicon PLCs offering system configuration, simulation, and cybersecurity integration.
Real-time PLC engineering environment running on Windows with support for EtherCAT, motion control, and measurement functions.
Integrated software suite for B&R PLCs providing programming, visualization, motion, and safety application development.
Unified programming platform for Omron NJ/NX-series PLCs with integrated HMI, motion, and database connectivity.
Advanced engineering software for MELSEC iQ-R and Q series PLCs featuring structured ladder logic and simulation capabilities.
Modular IDE based on CODESYS for ABB PLCs supporting engineering, commissioning, and diagnostics across automation devices.
Programming software for Delta PLCs with ladder diagram, function block, and structured text editing plus simulation tools.
TIA Portal
enterpriseComprehensive engineering framework for programming, configuring, and diagnosing Siemens SIMATIC PLCs and automation systems.
Unified multi-device engineering portal that enables portal-wide navigation, centralized libraries, and consistent project handling across PLC, HMI, and drive hardware.
TIA Portal (Totally Integrated Automation Portal) is Siemens' comprehensive engineering framework for industrial automation, serving as the primary software for programming, configuring, and diagnosing SIMATIC PLCs like S7-1200 and S7-1500 series. It integrates tools for PLC logic development in multiple IEC 61131-3 languages (LAD, FBD, SCL, STL, Graph), HMI design, drive commissioning, safety programming, and motion control. Advanced simulation via PLCSIM Advanced, version control, and diagnostics make it a complete lifecycle management solution for automation projects.
Pros
- Seamless integration across PLCs, HMIs, drives, and safety systems in one portal
- Powerful simulation, testing, and diagnostics tools like PLCSIM Advanced and traceability
- Extensive Siemens ecosystem support, libraries, and Industry 4.0 features like OPC UA
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to vast feature set and complexity
- High licensing costs and resource-intensive (requires high-end PC)
- Limited flexibility outside Siemens hardware ecosystem
Best For
Professional automation engineers and enterprises managing large-scale Siemens-based industrial control systems.
Pricing
Proprietary licensing varies by version and modules (e.g., Basic, Professional, Safety); perpetual licenses start at several thousand euros with annual maintenance fees; contact Siemens for quotes.
Studio 5000 Logix Designer
enterpriseIntegrated development environment for programming Allen-Bradley Logix family PLCs with advanced motion control and safety features.
Centralized, alias-enabled Tag Database for efficient data management and reuse across massive projects
Studio 5000 Logix Designer is Rockwell Automation's premier engineering software for programming, configuring, and maintaining Logix family PLCs like ControlLogix and CompactLogix. It supports multiple IEC 61131-3 languages including Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text, and Sequential Function Chart, enabling complex industrial automation projects. The tool excels in tag-based programming, integrated simulation, and diagnostics for large-scale applications involving motion control, safety, and process control.
Pros
- Comprehensive multi-language support and advanced debugging tools
- Seamless integration with Rockwell's FactoryTalk suite and hardware ecosystem
- Robust tag database and project management for enterprise-scale applications
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring specialized training
- High licensing costs with complex perpetual or subscription models
- Resource-heavy application demanding powerful hardware
Best For
Industrial automation engineers and teams managing large-scale manufacturing processes with Allen-Bradley Logix controllers.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,000-$10,000+ per seat depending on edition, plus annual FactoryTalk Activation maintenance fees around 20% of license cost.
CODESYS Development System
specializedIEC 61131-3 compliant IDE supporting multiple PLC hardware vendors with modular runtime and visualization tools.
True vendor neutrality with seamless support for 500+ PLC hardware platforms in a single IEC 61131-3 environment
CODESYS Development System is a leading IEC 61131-3 compliant integrated development environment (IDE) for PLC programming, supporting all five standard languages including Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text, Instruction List, and Sequential Function Chart. It enables the creation, simulation, visualization, and deployment of automation projects on a wide range of hardware from over 500 vendors. The platform also includes advanced features like motion control, safety programming, diagnostics, and SoftPLC runtime for PC-based control.
Pros
- Vendor-independent support for hundreds of PLC controllers
- Comprehensive toolset including HMI, motion, and safety integration
- Powerful simulation and debugging capabilities with version control
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to extensive features
- Modular licensing can become costly for full functionality
- Resource-intensive for very large-scale projects
Best For
Experienced automation engineers needing a standards-compliant, multi-vendor PLC development platform for industrial applications.
Pricing
Free basic version with runtime limitations; professional licenses start at ~€1,000 for development system, plus module-specific fees and OEM runtime royalties.
EcoStruxure Control Expert
enterpriseFull-featured programming software for Modicon PLCs offering system configuration, simulation, and cybersecurity integration.
Unified programming environment with built-in high-availability redundancy and cybersecurity compliance for mission-critical PLC applications
EcoStruxure Control Expert is Schneider Electric's flagship engineering software for programming, configuring, and maintaining Modicon PLCs such as M340, M580, and Momentum series. It provides a unified environment supporting IEC 61131-3 languages including Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text, and Sequential Function Chart, with built-in simulation, diagnostics, and cybersecurity features. The software integrates seamlessly with the EcoStruxure platform for IIoT connectivity, HMI, and SCADA systems, making it suitable for large-scale industrial automation projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for multiple Schneider PLC families and IEC 61131-3 languages
- Advanced simulation, debugging, and cybersecurity tools for reliable operations
- Seamless integration with EcoStruxure ecosystem for IIoT and enterprise-wide automation
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to complex interface
- High licensing costs with additional fees for modules and maintenance
- Primarily optimized for Schneider hardware, limiting multi-vendor flexibility
Best For
Experienced automation engineers managing large-scale, safety-critical industrial systems with Schneider Electric PLCs.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $5,000-$10,000 depending on modules, plus annual maintenance fees of 20-25%; runtime-free development environment.
TwinCAT 3
enterpriseReal-time PLC engineering environment running on Windows with support for EtherCAT, motion control, and measurement functions.
Unified engineering suite combining PLC runtime, CNC/NC motion control, and IoT connectivity in a single IDE
TwinCAT 3 from Beckhoff is a PC-based control automation software that turns standard industrial PCs into versatile PLCs, supporting all five IEC 61131-3 programming languages including Structured Text, Ladder Diagram, and Function Block Diagram. It provides an integrated engineering environment for PLC programming, motion control (NC, CNC), HMI development, and measurement technology. With real-time kernel extensions for Windows, it delivers high-performance deterministic control suitable for demanding industrial applications.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of PLC, motion control, HMI, and safety in one environment
- Superior real-time performance on cost-effective PC hardware
- Extensive library of certified function blocks and modules
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to PC-based control
- Licensing complexity and costs for advanced features
- Optimization favors Beckhoff hardware over generic PCs
Best For
Experienced automation engineers building complex, high-performance machine control systems with integrated motion and logic.
Pricing
Free basic runtime license; engineering environment licenses start at ~€995 per seat, with runtime scaling by CPU cores (~€200-€1,000+ per core) and additional modules extra.
Automation Studio
enterpriseIntegrated software suite for B&R PLCs providing programming, visualization, motion, and safety application development.
Integrated runtime simulation environment for full virtual commissioning without hardware
Automation Studio from B&R Automation is a comprehensive integrated development environment (IDE) for PLC programming, HMI design, motion control, and safety applications in industrial automation. It supports all five IEC 61131-3 languages, along with C++ and MATLAB integration, enabling users to develop, simulate, and commission complete automation projects. The software stands out for its hardware-in-the-loop simulation capabilities, allowing realistic testing without physical hardware deployment.
Pros
- Exceptional simulation and virtual commissioning tools for offline testing
- Unified platform integrating PLC, HMI, drives, and safety programming
- Rich library of pre-built function blocks and mapp components for rapid development
Cons
- Primarily optimized for B&R hardware, limiting multi-vendor flexibility
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- High licensing costs unsuitable for small projects or hobbyists
Best For
Professional automation engineers and system integrators working with B&R hardware on complex, high-performance industrial applications.
Pricing
Perpetual or subscription licenses starting at around €5,000-€10,000 per developer seat, often bundled with B&R hardware purchases; runtime licenses extra.
Sysmac Studio
enterpriseUnified programming platform for Omron NJ/NX-series PLCs with integrated HMI, motion, and database connectivity.
Single-project integration across PLCs, motion controllers, HMIs, drives, and safety systems for end-to-end automation engineering
Sysmac Studio is Omron's integrated development environment (IDE) for programming, configuring, simulating, and debugging Sysmac automation systems, including NJ/NX-series PLCs, motion controllers, HMIs, safety controllers, and vision systems. It supports all IEC 61131-3 programming languages (LD, FBD, ST, IL, SFC) within a single project structure for seamless multi-device engineering. The platform enables offline simulation, visualization, and database connectivity to optimize development workflows for industrial automation.
Pros
- Unified project environment for PLC, motion, HMI, and safety programming
- Powerful simulation and offline testing capabilities
- Extensive function blocks and libraries for Omron ecosystem
Cons
- Vendor-locked to Omron hardware with no multi-vendor support
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- Licensing costs add up for full-featured use
Best For
Automation engineers and system integrators focused on Omron Sysmac platforms requiring integrated multi-device development.
Pricing
Free basic version for limited use; full-featured licenses via USB dongle start at ~$500, with engineering suites up to $2,000+ depending on edition.
GX Works3
enterpriseAdvanced engineering software for MELSEC iQ-R and Q series PLCs featuring structured ladder logic and simulation capabilities.
GX Simulator3 for high-fidelity offline PLC simulation and debugging without physical hardware
GX Works3 is Mitsubishi Electric's comprehensive programming software for MELSEC iQ-R, iQ-F, Q, L, and FX series PLCs, enabling ladder logic, structured text, function block diagrams, and sequential function chart development. It provides tools for project management, device labeling, simulation via GX Simulator3, online monitoring, and debugging to support efficient PLC programming and maintenance. Designed for industrial automation professionals, it integrates seamlessly with Mitsubishi's ecosystem including HMIs and servo systems.
Pros
- Extensive support for multiple Mitsubishi PLC families and programming languages
- Powerful built-in simulation and debugging tools for offline testing
- Robust integration with Mitsubishi HMIs, drives, and motion control systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to Mitsubishi software
- Proprietary to Mitsubishi hardware, lacking multi-vendor support
- Interface can feel cluttered and dated compared to modern IDEs
Best For
Industrial automation engineers specializing in Mitsubishi Electric PLCs who require deep integration with their hardware ecosystem.
Pricing
Free download from Mitsubishi Electric website; full features require free registration and optional paid licenses for advanced modules or enterprise use.
Automation Builder
enterpriseModular IDE based on CODESYS for ABB PLCs supporting engineering, commissioning, and diagnostics across automation devices.
Single IDE for simultaneous engineering of PLCs, HMIs, drives, and safety controllers
Automation Builder is ABB's integrated engineering software suite for developing, configuring, and maintaining industrial automation systems, with strong support for PLCs like the AC500 series, HMIs, drives, and safety controllers. It offers a unified IDE supporting all IEC 61131-3 programming languages including Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text, and Instruction List. The tool excels in project-wide commissioning, simulation, and diagnostics within the ABB ecosystem, streamlining workflows for complex automation setups.
Pros
- Unified environment for programming PLCs, HMIs, drives, and safety devices
- Comprehensive IEC 61131-3 language support with rich ABB libraries
- Robust simulation, testing, and diagnostics tools
Cons
- Strong vendor lock-in limited to ABB hardware ecosystem
- Steeper learning curve for users from other PLC platforms
- Complex and potentially costly licensing structure
Best For
System integrators and engineers focused on ABB hardware who require a centralized tool for multi-device automation projects.
Pricing
Commercial perpetual licenses with optional maintenance; pricing module-based and available via ABB sales inquiry, often bundled with hardware.
ISPSoft
specializedProgramming software for Delta PLCs with ladder diagram, function block, and structured text editing plus simulation tools.
Integrated offline simulation that mirrors Delta PLC behavior without needing physical hardware
ISPSoft is Delta Electronics' proprietary programming software designed specifically for their PLC lineup, including DVP, AH, and AS series, supporting all five IEC 61131-3 languages such as Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text, Instruction List, and Sequential Function Chart. It provides comprehensive tools for program editing, debugging, offline simulation, online monitoring, and diagnostics, with seamless integration into Delta's broader automation ecosystem like HMIs and drives. While optimized for Delta hardware, it enables efficient development of industrial control applications from simple machines to complex systems.
Pros
- Free to download and use, providing excellent value for Delta PLC users
- Full IEC 61131-3 language support with robust simulation and debugging tools
- Tight integration with Delta hardware, HMIs, and drives for streamlined projects
Cons
- Vendor-locked to Delta PLCs, limiting portability to other brands
- Dated user interface compared to modern competitors like TIA Portal or Studio 5000
- Documentation and third-party community support are less comprehensive
Best For
Automation engineers and system integrators focused on Delta PLC-based industrial applications seeking a cost-free, hardware-optimized solution.
Pricing
Free to download from deltaww.com; no licensing fees required for use with Delta PLCs.
Conclusion
The top 10 PLC software tools represent a diverse set of solutions, with TIA Portal leading as a comprehensive framework that excels in integrating programming, configuration, and diagnostics for Siemens systems. Studio 5000 Logix Designer stands out for its advanced motion control and safety features tailored to Allen-Bradley setups, while CODESYS Development System offers a versatile, multi-vendor option compliant with global standards. Each tool addresses specific automation needs, ensuring there’s a strong choice for varied requirements.
Begin exploring automation possibilities with TIA Portal to unlock seamless engineering and management of PLC systems, or dive into its standout alternatives based on your hardware and project focus.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison