Choosing between PLCs and HMIs can feel like comparing a single controller to a full control panel. The Mitsubishi FX3G-60MR/ES sits at the low end of the price range, while the IDEC FC6A starter kit sits at the top, and that gap changes which project each one fits.
Quick Verdict
If you need a low-cost programmable logic controller for basic relay logic and already have an HMI, display, or software to pair with it, the Mitsubishi FX3G-60MR/ES is the pragmatic choice. If you want a ready-to-wire PLC and HMI combination that includes a color TFT display, power supply, cables, and programming software, the IDEC FC6A starter kit is the more complete route.
Comparison at a Glance
| Consideration | Mitsubishi FX3G-60MR/ES | IDEC FC6A Starter Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $70.00 | $1,185.12 |
| Condition | Used | New |
| Product focus | Programmable logic controller | PLC & HMI starter kit |
| Details in description | Brand: Mitsubishi; country of origin: Japan | 16 I/O, HMI, Ethernet, RS-232C/RS-485, Modbus RTU, expandable to 400 I/O |
Where Each Product Wins
- Mitsubishi FX3G-60MR/ES wins on price. It's the low-cost way into a PLC and keeps the hardware expense near the bottom of the range.
- IDEC FC6A starter kit wins on completeness. It's a bundled system with the controller and interface parts working together.
- IDEC FC6A starter kit wins on specifications. It includes a fuller list of capabilities in the product description.
Product Notes
MITSUBISHI FX3G-60MR/ES Programmable Logic Controller
The Mitsubishi FX3G-60MR/ES makes the cost of entry into a PLC project very low at $70.00. You're getting a used controller with the Mitsubishi brand and a Japan origin, which is a workable foundation for simple logic applications. The reason to pick it is the price: it's the budget option in this comparison. The limitation is the used condition and the product description's focus on the controller itself, not on a bundle of extras. That means you need to supply the surrounding parts, such as an HMI, power supply, wiring, and programming setup, on your own. For a small bench project or a low-risk automation task, the low cost can make that extra work worthwhile.
KIT-FC6A-16-RA-HG1G IDEC Programmable Logic Controllers, FC6A Series PLC & HMI
The IDEC FC6A starter kit is the complete-package answer. It costs $1,115.12 more than the Mitsubishi, but it includes a 16-I/O PLC, a 3-inch HG1G color TFT HMI, software, a 60W power supply, and cables in one kit. The reason to choose it is convenience: you get a new, matched set of components that can go straight into a control panel. It also lists Ethernet, RS-232C/RS-485, Modbus RTU master/slave, and expansion up to 400 I/O, which gives you room to grow. The limitation is the price tag relative to the Mitsubishi. If you only need basic relay logic, the higher expense is hard to justify. But if you're building a new machine and want a working PLC and HMI without piecing everything together yourself, this kit is the more complete route.
Final Choice by Use Case
Pick the Mitsubishi FX3G-60MR/ES when your priority is a low-cost PLC for simple tasks and you can bring your own HMI and accessories. Pick the IDEC FC6A starter kit when you need an all-in-one PLC and HMI kit.
