When you're choosing a control brain for a machine build, the first big fork is whether you want a single unit that combines the controller and operator screen, or a separate CPU that connects to a larger automation setup. Two new options sit at very different price points in the PLC and HMI space: a compact PLC with an integrated touchscreen for $95.99, and an AutomationDirect P1-550 Productivity1000 CPU for $211.65. Both are new, but they answer the question "what should my control system be?" in different ways.
Quick verdict: The all-in-one PLC with its integrated display gives you the shortest path to a working machine interface because it bundles the operator panel, I/O, and pulse control into one package. The AutomationDirect P1-550 is the better foundation when you need a modular CPU with extensive communication options and generous program memory, and you're okay building the rest of the system around it.
| Feature | 5" HMI PLC | AutomationDirect P1-550 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $95.99 | $211.65 |
| Unit type | PLC processor module with 5-inch HMI touch screen | Productivity1000 CPU |
| Key capabilities | 2-axis 100 kHz pulse control, 9 inputs, 8 relay outputs, FX1S compatibility, free HMI software | Up to 50 MB ladder memory, microSD slot, Ethernet, RS-232, RS-485, USB |
Where each product wins
Where the touchscreen PLC wins: It wins when you want the HMI and the controller to be one physical unit. The built-in display lets you monitor and tweak parameters without a separate panel, while the discrete I/O handles machine control. The pulse outputs are aimed at stepper or servo positioning, and the included software package lowers the cost of getting started.
Where the AutomationDirect P1-550 wins: It wins when you need a CPU with room to grow. The program memory gives you space for longer logic, and the removable storage offers an easy path for program transfer. With multiple wired communication ports, it can talk to a broad range of industrial devices, which makes it a practical anchor for a networked control system.
Product notes
PLC Controller Programmable Logic Controller 5" HMI Touch Screen For Industrial
This all-in-one unit pairs a PLC processor with a 5-inch HMI touch screen, so you can view machine status and make adjustments without adding a separate display. It's the lower-priced option in this head-to-head, and the built-in I/O includes 9 inputs and 8 relay outputs. The 2-axis pulse output supports stepper or servo positioning up to 100 kHz, which fits packaging, labeling, and positioning work. Programming is done through GX Works2/Developer, and the HMI software is free. Step-by-step video tutorials and lifetime technical support are part of the offering. Choose it when you want a compact, nearly self-contained control package. The catch: it's built around the FX1S-compatible workflow, so teams already committed to a different PLC environment will need to adapt.
NEW Automation Direct P1-550 Programmable Controller Productivity1000 CPU
This is a CPU for the Productivity1000 family, and it brings real processing muscle: up to 50 MB ladder memory, a microSD card slot, and a generous set of communication options including two Ethernet 10/100Base-T ports, RS-232, RS-485, and a microB-USB port. It requires an external 24 VDC supply, so you'll plan for that in the cabinet. The CPU also includes a battery. Where this unit stands out is connectivity and capacity: the Ethernet and serial options make it easy to talk to drives, sensors, and HMIs across a machine, and the microSD slot gives you a straightforward way to store programs. Go with this when you want a building-block CPU that can anchor a larger control system. The trade-off: with the P1-550, you'll build the operator interface around it.
Final choice by use case
For an all-in-one machine controller, pick the touchscreen PLC. It gives you screen, I/O, and pulse control in one integrated unit, ideal for packaging, labeling, and positioning tasks.
For a networked, expandable control system, pick the AutomationDirect P1-550. Its combination of broad connectivity, removable storage, and program capacity makes it a strong anchor for a larger Productivity1000 setup.
