Top 10 PLC Manufacturers

The industrial automation market is experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing demands for process optimization, revenue maximization, and minimizing downtime. Industries are adopting PLC-based systems not only for their reliability but also because modern PLCs are becoming easier to use and integrate into operations. As competition intensifies and manufacturers seek advanced, long-term automation solutions, the following ten companies stand out as the top PLC manufacturers globally.

1. ABB Ltd.
Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, ABB is a global leader in engineering and automation. Since merging ASEA and Brown, Boveri & Cie in 1988, ABB has consistently innovated, recently acquiring B&R to further enhance its automation offerings. Their AC500 series includes:

• AC500-eCo: Compact and cost-effective

• AC500-S: For safety applications

• AC500-XC: Designed for extreme conditions

2. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
Mitsubishi Electric, the automation branch of the Mitsubishi conglomerate, has earned its market share through durable, cost-efficient solutions and improved customer service. Their MELSEC PLC family includes:

• iQ-R: High-performance flagship PLCs

• iQ-F: Compact, feature-rich models

• F Series: Budget-friendly and space-saving

3. Schneider Electric SE
With a global presence in over 100 countries, Schneider is renowned for its robust automation solutions. Their PLC lineup includes:

• Zelio Logic SR2/SR3: Easy-to-use mini PLCs (10–40 I/Os)

• Modicon Series: Covers next-gen, safety, and modular controllers for broad applications

4. Rockwell Automation, Inc. (Allen-Bradley)
A trusted American name in automation, Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley) has a loyal customer base thanks to its reliability and outstanding support. Their popular lines include:

• ControlLogix

• CompactLogix

• MicroLogix

5. Siemens AG
One of the world’s largest engineering companies, Siemens is a dominant player in industrial automation. Their SIMATIC PLC range features:

• S7-1500: High-performance modular systems

• S7-1200: Compact, full-featured solutions for mid-range use

• Distributed Controllers: For space-constrained applications

6. Emerson Electric Co.
Founded in 1890, Emerson entered the PLC market prominently after acquiring GE’s PLC technologies in 2019. Their key product lines:

• PACSystems: High-performance PAC controllers

• VersaMax: Modular and compact PLCs for diverse applications

7. Honeywell International Inc.
Honeywell is a renowned U.S. company with a strong industrial automation presence. Their ControlEdge line emphasizes Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) integration and advanced connectivity.

8. Omron Corporation
A pioneer in electronics and automation, Omron offers PLCs with a focus on compact design and advanced performance. Key products:

• CP Series: High-performance compact PLCs

• CJ2M: Mid-range modular PLCs

• CS1: High-end CPUs for larger systems

9. Panasonic Corporation
Best known for consumer electronics, Panasonic also manufactures reliable PLCs used in industrial applications. Their systems, programmable since 1995, include:

• FP Series: Versatile controllers ranging from compact to premium models

10. Robert Bosch GmbH (Bosch Rexroth)
Bosch Rexroth, the industrial automation division of Bosch, offers high-quality PLCs. Their offerings include:

• CML Series: Modular systems for advanced installations

• XM Series: Compact yet scalable

• VPB Series: Hybrid PC-PLC systems

Final Thoughts
The distinction between PLCs and PACs continues to blur as technology advances. These ten manufacturers lead the way by delivering scalable, reliable, and future proof automation solutions. While all offer premium products, the right supplier depends on your specific application needs. Whether you're managing a large-scale facility or a small automated process, choosing the right PLC manufacturer is key to long-term efficiency and system reliability.

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Email: sales@plgautomation.com
Phone: 800-906-9271