Soft starters are motor controls that ramp up voltage at startup, and choosing between them usually depends on the motor's current draw, phase setup, and whether you're wiring a control panel or protecting a residential AC compressor. Here, two soft starters sit at opposite ends of that decision: a 147A three-phase unit priced at $999.99 and a 16-32A residential-focused unit at $120.89.
Quick Verdict
If you're setting up a large three-phase motor control and want the starter plus a contactor in one purchase, the Sprecher Schuh PCXXE is the unit to go with. If you're adding soft start to a residential 4-7 ton AC compressor and want reverse motor protection, the 16-32A AC Soft Starter is the practical pick at $120.89.
Price and Spec Comparison
| Spec | Sprecher Schuh PCXXE | 16-32A AC Soft Starter |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $999.99 | $120.89 |
| Current rating | 147A | 16-32A |
| Condition | Used | New |
| Included with unit | Allen Bradley 100-E80KD00 contactor | AC Soft Starter Install Kit |
Where the Sprecher Schuh PCXXE Wins
- The 147A rating and three-phase design suit larger motor loads.
- The 120V coil works in common control circuits.
- It comes with an Allen Bradley 100-E80KD00, so you get the starter and contactor together.
Where the 16-32A AC Soft Starter Wins
- The $120.89 price is lower, and the unit is new.
- Reverse motor protection is built in, along with low-voltage and over-current compressor protection.
- It's compatible with HVAC systems, EV chargers, generators, solar power, and most residential AC units between 4-7 tons.
- The install kit includes a 1-year manufacturer warranty.
Product Notes
Sprecher Schuh PCXXE, PCE-147-600V-120V
This three-phase soft starter carries a 147A rating and a 120V coil, which makes it a candidate for larger motor control panels. It includes an Allen Bradley 100-E80KD00 contactor, so you're not hunting for a separate contactor when you build the starter arrangement. The unit is listed as used and removed in working condition, and you receive the exact unit shown, which matters if you need a specific replacement. If you already have a motor starter layout and need a 147A unit that can work with a 120V control circuit, this is the option that gives you that specific combination from its name. The trade-off is the price: $999.99 is the higher end of this comparison, and the used condition means you should be comfortable with a pre-owned part in a working state. With a 147A three-phase rating, this is a unit aimed at three-phase motor control rather than a compact residential AC startup kit.
16-32A AC Soft Starter with Reverse Motor Protection
This new soft starter targets residential and light-commercial compressors in the 4-7 ton range, with a current window of 16-32A. Reverse motor protection is called out in the title, and low-voltage and over-current compressor protection are also part of the feature set. A generator-friendly startup reduces inrush current to help prevent flickering circuits during AC startup. For an AC installer or generator owner, the soft start behavior is designed to reduce mechanical and electrical stress at startup, which is the main reason someone would choose a soft starter over a direct online start. It ships as an AC Soft Starter Install Kit with a 1-year manufacturer warranty, which gives a defined support period for a $120.89 purchase. The limitation is the current range: if your motor pulls more than 32A or you're working with a large three-phase load, this unit probably won't cover it. It's best matched to HVAC equipment, EV chargers, generators, solar setups, and residential AC units described as 4-7 tons.
Final Choice by Use Case
- Large three-phase motor control: Choose the Sprecher Schuh PCXXE for its 147A rating and included Allen Bradley contactor.
- Residential 4-7 ton AC soft start: Choose the 16-32A AC Soft Starter for reverse motor protection, generator-friendly startup, install kit, and 1-year warranty at $120.89.
