Both controllers are programmed in TIA Portal and share many concepts, so the choice is mostly about performance and scale.
S7-1200
A compact controller for small and mid-size machines, with built-in PROFINET and local I/O options.
S7-1500
Faster, with more memory, more communication capacity, advanced motion and integrated diagnostics, suited to larger machines and plants.
Quick decision guide
- Small machine, few axes, limited networks: S7-1200.
- Large program, many devices, high cycle-time demands: S7-1500.
- Possible future growth: consider the S7-1500.
Compare modules in our S7-1200 and S7-1500 ranges, or tell us your application and we will suggest a suitable part.