I don't think this is an accurate assessment or comparison.. Neptune doesn't not play nice with others. WXM works well with Ecotech products (except the pumps, which is an Ecotech limitation, not Neptune). Neptune has 0-10v ports. Their new IOTA initiative is already off to a seemingly good start (using that with a AI light on a 2nd tank). While they aren't Microsoft that allows for a ton of crapware ruin their experience with a completely open system, they seem to be willing to play nice with other companies by many accounts that I use (personally I control a Reef Octopus skimmer, Ecotech Radions, MP40s, Kessil light on refugium, and AI light on QT tank, all from 1 Apex - that doesn't sound like a closed system).