Choosing a programmable logic controller (PLC) is usually a matching exercise: the controller has to accept the voltages your sensors provide, drive the outputs your machine needs, and fit the enclosure you already have. The four PLCs below span new and used units, from a panel-mount smart relay to a modular Beckhoff I/O block, with a price spread that reflects different form factors. The decision is less about price alone and more about which controller's inputs, outputs, and power requirements line up with your wiring plan.
Quick Take
- Crouzet Millenium 3 CD12 is the only controller here with a backlit LCD and 100-240 VAC operation, making it easy to read status directly at the panel.
- IDEC FL1E-H12RCA is a 24 VAC/DC smart relay CPU that works in the same voltage family as many sensors and controls.
- Unitronics Vision 120 is the only used unit in the group and the only one with a display-based programming environment; it has scuffs and scratches.
- Beckhoff EL3064 is the most compact option as a single new module, with the lowest listed price in the set.
Listed Price Comparison
| Product | Listed Price | Price Bar |
|---|---|---|
| NEW CROUZET 88974043 MILLENIUM 3 CD12 PLC SMART PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLER | USD 152.00 | |
| IDEC FL1E-H12RCA FL1F SMARTRELAY CPU 24VAC-DC PLC Programmable Logic Controller | USD 119.81 | |
| Unitronics Vision 120 V120-22-UN2 Programmable Logic Controller | USD 89.90 | |
| 1PCS New BECKHOFF EL3064 Programmable Logic Controller Modules Fast delivery | USD 86.97 |
The spread between the two ends is about $65. The Crouzet carries the highest listed price, and the Beckhoff module carries the lowest.
Decision Matrix
| Product | Best for | Consider if |
|---|---|---|
| Crouzet Millenium 3 CD12 | Reading status at the panel | You want a new smart relay with an LCD and 100-240 VAC supply |
| IDEC FL1E-H12RCA | 24 V control circuits | You need a new smart relay CPU that runs on 24 VAC or DC |
| Unitronics Vision 120 | Display-based programming | You want a used controller with programming features and a visible screen |
| Beckhoff EL3064 | Modular control systems | You need a new Beckhoff module and already work with that platform |
Product Notes
NEW CROUZET 88974043 MILLENIUM 3 CD12 PLC SMART PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLER
The Crouzet Millenium 3 CD12 is a new smart programmable logic controller with a backlit LCD, 8 digital inputs, and 4 relay outputs. Its 100-240 VAC supply range makes it a direct fit for panel power in many industrial cabinets, and configuration uses M3 Soft software. Choose it when you want a complete smart relay with a readable screen. The limitation is that the controller is non-expandable, so the 8-input/4-output configuration is what you get.
IDEC FL1E-H12RCA FL1F SMARTRELAY CPU 24VAC-DC PLC Programmable Logic Controller
Sold by Ftlx_JDRui, this IDEC smart relay CPU is new, with the box opened to verify contents. The 24 VAC/DC supply makes it useful for control circuits that already run on 24 V power, and the FL1F SmartRelay family is designed as a compact CPU. It is a good fit if you need a new, smaller controller and the 24 V supply is already available. The main trade-off to weigh is that the packaging has been opened.
Unitronics Vision 120 V120-22-UN2 Programmable Logic Controller
The Unitronics Vision 120 is the only used controller in this comparison, with a 30-day warranty. It works, but it has scuffs and scratches, and it comes only as pictured. If you are comfortable with a used unit, this is the controller that puts a screen and programmability together in one package. The limitation is the condition: expect cosmetic wear and only the pictured items.
1PCS New BECKHOFF EL3064 Programmable Logic Controller Modules Fast delivery
The Beckhoff EL3064 is a new module, with the model and MPN both pointing to EL3064. For a builder who already uses Beckhoff terminals, this is a straightforward way to add one more piece to a control system. The trade-off is that this is a single module rather than a complete standalone controller.
Final Recommendation by Use Case
If you want a new, self-contained smart relay with a readable display and higher-voltage supply, the Crouzet Millenium 3 CD12 is the one to consider despite having the highest listed price, USD 152.00. If your control circuit runs on 24 VAC/DC and you prefer a new CPU, the IDEC FL1E-H12RCA offers a compact option at USD 119.81. If a used unit with a screen and a 30-day warranty is acceptable, the Unitronics Vision 120 at USD 89.90 is the lower-cost way to get programmability in a package with a display. If you are building on Beckhoff hardware and just need a new module, the Beckhoff EL3064 at USD 86.97 is the least expensive item here and keeps your system within the same platform.
