controller selection

Is there any reason to select a AX1500 with encoder input option, as opposed to a AX3500 which has the encoder input standard, when the price is the same? I don't need the additional power of the AX3500, but I don't know what the tradeoffs are.

Thanks.

There really is no economic benefit to have an AX1500 + Encoder kit vs an AX3500.

There is a slight "footprint" benefit, as the AX1500 occupies less area.