Logic & Relay

Schneider Modicon M221 vs Mitsubishi FX3U PLC: Which New Controller Should You Buy?

Two new PLC listings - one Schneider Modicon M221 with Ethernet, one Mitsubishi FX3U-style unit - are priced differently. This head-to-head breaks down what you see in each listing to help you choose.

Last updated Aug 17, 2026

When you need a new programmable logic controller (PLC), the choice often comes down to platform naming and budget. Two new listings stand out: a Schneider Electric Modicon M221 Logic Controller with Ethernet and 24 I/O, and a Mitsubishi PLC FX3U-32MT/ES-A Programmable Logic Controller. Both are listed as brand-new PLC processor modules with a unit quantity of one, so they share the same basic role and condition. The differences start with the platform branding: the Schneider unit names the Modicon M221 family and Ethernet directly, while the Mitsubishi unit is described with the FX3U series and the broader 'Programmable Logic Controller' platform label. Then there's price: the listings sit on opposite sides of the $50 mark, with the Mitsubishi unit at USD 116.96 and the Schneider at USD 170.39.

Quick verdict

If you want a lower listed price and a controller described as a Mitsubishi PLC, the FX3U-32MT/ES-A is the pick. If you prefer a clearly branded Schneider Electric Modicon M221 unit with Ethernet called out in the product name, the TM221CE24R is your choice.

Comparison table

ProductListed PricePrice BarKey Details
Schneider TM221CE24RUSD 170.39Modicon M221 platform · Ethernet named in title · 24 I/O · Schneider Electric
Mitsubishi FX3U-32MT/ES-AUSD 116.96Programmable Logic Controller platform · titled as Mitsubishi PLC · new PLC processor module

Where each product wins

  • The Schneider listing wins if you want the Modicon M221 platform explicitly identified. The product name includes the platform name, Ethernet connectivity, and the 24 I/O count, and the brand is listed as Schneider Electric. You'll pay the higher of the two listed prices, but the specification is clearly stated.
  • The Mitsubishi-branded listing wins if you want to keep your upfront cost down. It's the lower-priced of the two, and it's described as a Mitsubishi PLC. The controller platform is listed as Programmable Logic Controller, which is a broader designation than the Modicon M221 platform.

Product notes

Schneider TM221CE24R Modicon M221 Logic Controller, 24 I/O, Ethernet, Brand New

Schneider TM221CE24R Modicon M221 Logic Controller, 24 I/O, Ethernet, Brand New

Choose this listing if you want the Modicon M221 platform to be front and center. The product name spells out the platform, the 24 I/O count, and the Ethernet connectivity, so there's no guesswork about the controller family. The brand is listed as Schneider Electric, and a GTIN is provided for part identification. That clarity comes at a price: this is the higher-priced of the two listings, so you'll pay more than the alternative. The country of origin is listed as Taiwan, which is a neutral detail that may be relevant if you're tracking sourcing locations. If your project doesn't actually need Ethernet or you're flexible on platform branding, the other listing offers a lower upfront cost.

1PCS Brand New Mitsubishi PLC FX3U-32MT/ES-A Programmable Logic Controller

1PCS Brand New Mitsubishi PLC FX3U-32MT/ES-A Programmable Logic Controller

This listing is the lower-priced option, making it the natural choice if you're looking to minimize upfront cost. It's described as a brand new Mitsubishi PLC, and the product type is listed as PLC Processor Module. The title also includes '1PCS,' so you know you're getting one unit. One limitation to keep in mind: the title and the product details show different model suffixes-the title says FX3U-32MT/ES-A while the product details list FX3U-32MR/ES-A-so the exact suffix is ambiguous. The GTIN is also listed as 'Does not apply,' so there's no unique identifier in the listing. For a straightforward purchase where exact model naming isn't critical, the lower price is appealing.

Final choice by use case

Choose the Schneider TM221CE24R if your project expects a Modicon M221 controller with Ethernet and you can work with the higher listed price. Choose the Mitsubishi FX3U-32MT/ES-A listing if you want a new Mitsubishi PLC designation and a lower upfront cost. The suffix difference between the title and product details on the Mitsubishi listing is a detail to keep in mind when you compare model numbers.

Products in this article
Schneider TM221CE24R Modicon M221 Logic ControllerUSD 170.39View on eBay1PCS Brand New Mitsubishi PLC FX3U-32MT/ES-A Programmable Logic ControllerUSD 116.96View on eBay
Schneider TM221CE24R Modicon M221 Logic ControllerUSD 170.39View on eBay1PCS Brand New Mitsubishi PLC FX3U-32MT/ES-A Programmable Logic ControllerUSD 116.96View on eBay

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