Quick Take
Choosing a soft starter for a motor is more than a price decision. You first need to know whether the motor runs on single-phase or three-phase power, how much current or horsepower it draws, what control voltage the starter needs, and whether you are comfortable with used equipment or want something new. The four options here span from a compact single-phase module at USD 50.99 to a large used reduced-voltage starter at USD 4,750, a difference of about USD 4,699. That spread also reflects different starting technologies and installation classes, so the goal is to match the starter to the motor rather than simply choosing the lowest-priced or largest unit.
Listed Price Comparison
| Product | Listed Price | Price Bar |
|---|---|---|
| Single Phase Motor Soft Starter SSR-60WA-R1 | USD 50.99 | |
| Kimatek ASAC-0/030/5/1 | USD 575.00 | |
| Sprecher Schuh PCE-147-600V-120V | USD 999.99 | |
| Square D Size 5 Reduced Voltage Motor Soft Starter | USD 4,750.00 |
Decision Matrix
| If You Need | Best Match | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A small single-phase motor to start gently | Single Phase Motor Soft Starter SSR-60WA-R1 | The module is sized for a 2KW single-phase load and gives you adjustable start voltage and soft-start time. |
| A three-phase motor around 40HP | Kimatek ASAC-0/030/5/1 | It is new, rated for 60A, and accepts 200-575V. |
| A three-phase circuit rated for 147A with a 120V coil | Sprecher Schuh PCE-147-600V-120V | It includes a contactor and is built for a 147A three-phase motor. |
| A large 200HP reduced-voltage start | Square D Size 5 Reduced Voltage Motor Soft Starter | The autotransformer design is made for 200HP and 250A. |
Details on Each Starter
Sprecher Schuh PCE-147-600V-120V Motor Soft Starter
The Sprecher Schuh PCE-147-600V-120V is a used three-phase soft starter rated for 147A with a 120V control coil. The unit includes an Allen Bradley 100-E80KD00 contactor, so you get the starter and contactor together instead of having to match them separately. The 600V designation points to a higher-voltage motor circuit, and the 120V coil keeps the control side separate from the power side. That combination works well if you are already using 120V controls. The limitation is the used condition: it was removed from service in working condition, which is not the same as buying new. If new equipment is a hard requirement, this one will not satisfy that.
Single Phase Motor Soft Starter SSR-60WA-R1
This Single Phase Motor Soft Starter uses the SSR-60WA-R1 module and is built for a 2KW single-phase motor. At about 550g, it can be tucked into a small enclosure without taking up much panel space. The start potentiometer lets you set the starting voltage and soft-start time, with examples for both 220V and 380V supplies; setting the minimum time to 0 seconds is not recommended. That adjustability makes it useful for a small pump, fan, or conveyor. The limitation is its scope: at 2KW, it cannot handle three-phase loads or motors in a much higher horsepower class. It is a single-phase module, not a full motor starter replacement.
Kimatek ASAC-0/030/5/1
The Kimatek ASAC-0/030/5/1 is a new three-phase soft starter for 40HP at 400V, with a 60A rating and a 200-575V input range that also accepts 45-66Hz supplies. It includes an auxiliary contact, and the dimensions are about 4 in. wide by 8 in. high by 7.375 in. deep, so it can fit on a DIN rail or a chassis panel. It carries cULus and CE marks to IEC 60947-4, which can matter for a new panel build. The limitation is the 40HP ceiling. If your motor is larger, you need to move up to a higher-current starter rather than trying to stretch this unit.
Square D Size 5 Reduced Voltage Motor Soft Starter
The Square D Size 5 reduced-voltage motor soft starter is an autotransformer-type starter rated for 200HP and 250A. It is used and made in the United States, and it uses a breaker rather than fuses. The autotransformer is the reason to choose it if you need reduced inrush current on a large motor without moving to a solid-state drive. This is the largest-capacity unit among the four, and its used condition is the main limitation. It is also a physically large unit, so it belongs in a motor control center or large enclosure, not a small panel. You should pick it only when your motor is in that 200HP class.
Final Recommendation by Use Case
The decision matrix above is the fastest way to land on the right unit. If your motor is single-phase, the Single Phase Motor Soft Starter is the only one designed for that input, and its adjustable soft-start time fits small loads. If you need a new three-phase starter, the Kimatek is the one to compare against your motor's current and supply voltage. If used gear is acceptable and you want a three-phase starter with a matching contactor, the Sprecher Schuh is the practical choice. For a large motor that needs autotransformer reduced-voltage starting, the Square D is the specialized option. Match the row to your motor, then read that note for the exact sizing details.
