Hey there! I totally get why you're feeling overwhelmed - choosing your first PLC platform is a big decision that can shape your career path. Let me break down the real-world trade-offs you should consider beyond just technical specs:

First, let's talk training and learning curves. Allen-Bradley's Studio 5000 is often considered the most beginner-friendly with its intuitive interface - you can get productive in 40-80 hours. Siemens' TIA Portal is more complex but comprehensive, taking 60-120 hours to master. Mitsubishi's GX Works sits somewhere in between, with good online training resources available directly from Mitsubishi Electric.

Community support varies dramatically by region. In North America, Allen-Bradley dominates with about 40% market share, meaning you'll find tons of local experts, forums, and job opportunities. Siemens has the global lead (35-40% worldwide) but is stronger in Europe and process industries. Mitsubishi has solid presence in Asia and specific industries like packaging and automotive.

Now for the big one: vendor lock-in. This is where your choice really matters. When you pick a PLC platform, you're not just choosing hardware - you're buying into an entire ecosystem of software, HMIs, drives, and support that can lock you in for 10-15 years. Siemens and Allen-Bradley both have comprehensive but proprietary ecosystems. Mitsubishi offers more flexibility with CODESYS compatibility in some models, which can reduce lock-in risks.

My advice? Consider where you want to work geographically and what industries interest you. If you're in North America and want broad job opportunities, Allen-Bradley is a safe bet. If you're aiming for global mobility or process industries, Siemens might be better. Mitsubishi is great if you're targeting specific Asian markets or want more ecosystem flexibility.

Remember, learning one platform well makes it easier to pick up others later. The fundamentals transfer across brands, so don't stress too much about making the "perfect" choice!