In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, PLC companies play a pivotal role in automation processes across various sectors. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are specialized computers designed to automate manufacturing processes, improve efficiency, and reduce downtime. From assembly lines to robotic systems, PLCs are essential in keeping industries running smoothly. As automation continues to advance in 2025, understanding the major PLC brands and what they offer is crucial for businesses seeking to optimize operations.
What Are PLC Brands and Why Do They Matter?
PLC brands refer to the companies that design and manufacture programmable logic controllers used in industrial automation. These manufacturers create PLCs tailored to specific applications, ranging from basic machinery control to complex, large-scale factory automation.
Different industries have unique operational demands, and PLC manufacturers develop products that cater to these varying needs. Whether it’s a compact unit for a small production line or a high-end PLC for managing entire manufacturing plants, choosing the right brand impacts performance, compatibility, and future scalability. Selecting the right PLC automation companies ensures smoother integration with existing systems, better technical support, and reliable performance.
Types of PLC Brands in the Market
The automation industry features a diverse list of PLC brands, each suited to specific operational needs. Let’s explore the common categories:
Small-scale vs. Large-scale Automation Needs
- Small-scale PLCs are designed for simple, standalone machines or smaller assembly lines. They are compact, affordable, and easy to program.
- Large-scale PLCs are built for comprehensive automation systems. They can manage entire production floors or large industrial processes with hundreds of I/O points.
General-purpose PLCs vs. Industry-specific PLCs
- General-purpose PLCs are versatile and used across multiple industries, from automotive to food processing.
- Industry-specific PLCs are specialized for sectors such as oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, or water treatment plants, offering tailored functionalities and compliance with industry standards.
Budget-friendly vs. Premium PLC Brands
- Budget-friendly PLC brands deliver essential features at an affordable price, ideal for startups or smaller projects.
- Premium PLC brands offer advanced capabilities like enhanced communication protocols, redundancy, and cybersecurity features, suitable for complex, critical operations.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on industry-specific automation requirements, future scalability, and budget.
Leading PLC Automation Companies
Here’s an overview of the world’s most popular PLC brands and their contributions to automation in 2025:
Allen-Bradley
A flagship brand under Rockwell Automation, Allen-Bradley is a leading name in industrial automation. Allen-Bradley, part of Rockwell Automation, is highly regarded in North America for its rugged and reliable hardware. It is known for offering intuitive software like Studio 5000 and a vast selection of I/O modules, making it ideal for complex manufacturing lines.
- Key features: Extensive product line with modular designs, superior I/O options, high-speed processing, and advanced safety controls.
- Benefits: Seamless integration with Rockwell's software ecosystem (RSLogix/Studio 5000), strong technical support, and robust security.
- Pricing: Allen-Bradley PLCs are considered premium, with prices starting from approximately $1,000 for compact models and scaling up for advanced systems.
- Products: CompactLogix, MicroLogix, ControlLogix series.
Siemens
Siemens is a global leader and a pioneer in automation technology. Siemens dominates the global market with its SIMATIC PLC series, offering excellent scalability from small machines to enterprise-level automation. The TIA Portal simplifies engineering workflows and supports integration with Siemens drives, HMIs, and safety devices.
- Key features: Integrated engineering with TIA Portal, strong networking capabilities, and scalable designs.
- Benefits: Highly reliable in harsh environments, wide availability, and strong compatibility with other Siemens automation products.
- Pricing: Siemens offers mid-premium pricing, starting at around $800 for basic models.
- Products: SIMATIC S7-1200, S7-1500, and ET 200 series.
Mitsubishi Electric
Known for precision and reliability, Mitsubishi Electric serves a wide array of industries. Mitsubishi’s MELSEC series is a top choice in Asia, known for high-speed processing and compact design. The brand focuses on energy-efficient automation solutions and supports industries such as automotive, food & beverage, and packaging.
- Key features: Fast processing speed, compact design, and energy-efficient systems.
- Benefits: User-friendly programming with GX Works3, cost-effective solutions for both small and large-scale applications.
- Pricing: Generally budget-friendly, with entry-level models starting at $500.
- Products: MELSEC iQ-R, iQ-F, FX5U series.
Schneider Electric
A global automation company with a strong focus on sustainability and energy management. Schneider Electric’s Modicon PLCs are popular in both industrial and infrastructure sectors. Their EcoStruxure architecture supports IIoT, energy management, and smart manufacturing initiatives, making them a leader in sustainable automation.
- Key features: EcoStruxure platform compatibility, good cybersecurity, and excellent modularity.
- Benefits: Easy integration with IoT platforms, scalable from simple to complex operations.
- Pricing: Mid-range to premium pricing, starting from around $700.
- Products: Modicon M221, M241, and M580 series.
ABB
ABB is known for its innovation in robotics and industrial automation. ABB provides industrial-grade PLCs built for heavy-duty and mission-critical applications. Their systems offer hot-swappable modules and redundancy options, making them reliable in sectors like utilities, oil & gas, and power generation.
- Key features: High-speed processors, broad communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus), and advanced redundancy options.
- Benefits: Ideal for large, critical infrastructure projects requiring high availability.
- Pricing: Premium pricing tier, starting at around $1,200.
- Products: AC500, AC500-S Safety PLCs.
Omron
A popular choice for manufacturing and healthcare industries. Omron’s NX and NJ series PLCs are highly valued for combining control, motion, and safety into a single platform. Their strong robotics integration and EtherCAT support make them ideal for assembly lines and material handling.
- Key features: Compact footprint, fast cycle times, and integrated safety features.
- Benefits: Easy integration with Omron sensors and robotics, highly reliable.
- Pricing: Competitive pricing, with basic models starting at $400.
- Products: Sysmac NX1P2, CP1E, CJ2 series.
Keyence
Keyence is widely regarded for its easy-to-use PLCs designed for high-speed automation. Keyence focuses on ultra-fast controllers with easy ladder and structured text programming. The brand is well-known for providing ready-to-deploy
automation kits and excellent after-sales support.
- Key features: Ultra-fast scan times, intuitive programming interface, and built-in networking.
- Benefits: Minimal setup time, compact models with a high I/O density.
- Pricing: Mid-range pricing starting at $600.
- Products: KV-8000, KV Nano series.
Wago
A leader in modular automation solutions and I/O systems. Wago specializes in modular I/O systems and compact PLCs that fit decentralized architectures. Their fieldbus-independent approach and focus on cost-effectiveness make them popular in building automation and process control.
- Key features: Compact design, compatibility with multiple communication standards (EtherCAT, Modbus TCP), and decentralized control.
- Benefits: Energy-efficient and cost-effective for distributed automation projects.
- Pricing: Affordable pricing, with models starting at $500.
- Products: PFC200, WAGO-I/O-SYSTEM 750 series.
Choosing the Best PLC Brand for Your Industrial Automation Needs
Selecting the right PLC brand depends on several critical factors:
- Industry requirements: Heavy industries like oil & gas or automotive often require premium, rugged PLCs, while packaging or food processing may benefit from compact, lower-cost models.
- Programming language support: Ensure the PLC supports IEC 61131-3 languages such as ladder logic, structured text, or function block diagrams, depending on your team’s expertise.
- Scalability and expansion options: Choose a brand that offers modularity and future-proof solutions as your automation needs grow.
- Technical support and availability: Access to local support, spare parts, and a knowledgeable vendor network is essential to minimize downtime.
Conclusion
In 2025, businesses will have more choices than ever when it comes to PLC brands. From globally recognized companies like Allen-Bradley and Siemens to specialized providers such as Wago and Keyence, selecting the right PLC partner is key to long-term automation success.
Need help sourcing PLC parts?
BSP Automation is a trusted supplier of industrial automation components from top PLC brands. Contact us today to explore your options and get expert advice tailored to your project.
