RS-485 vs Ethernet

Developers should learn RS-485 when working on industrial automation, building control systems, or IoT projects that require reliable, long-range communication between multiple devices in noisy environments meets developers should learn ethernet because it underpins most wired network infrastructure in offices, data centers, and homes, enabling reliable and high-speed data transfer for applications like web servers, databases, and cloud services. Here's our take.

RS-485

Nice Pick

Developers should learn RS-485 when working on industrial automation, building control systems, or IoT projects that require reliable, long-range communication between multiple devices in noisy environments

Pros

• It's essential for implementing protocols like Modbus RTU or Profibus in manufacturing, HVAC, or energy management systems, where robustness and multi-drop capability are critical
• Related to: modbus, serial-communication

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Ethernet

Developers should learn Ethernet because it underpins most wired network infrastructure in offices, data centers, and homes, enabling reliable and high-speed data transfer for applications like web servers, databases, and cloud services

Pros

• Understanding Ethernet is crucial for network programming, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and designing systems that rely on stable LAN communications, such as in IoT devices or enterprise software deployments
• Related to: tcp-ip, network-protocols

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. RS-485 is a tool while Ethernet is a concept. We picked RS-485 based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

RS-485 wins

Based on overall popularity. RS-485 is more widely used, but Ethernet excels in its own space.