Need to switch an industrial load, but not sure whether a bare relay or a full motor starter is the right purchase? That's the fork in the road. A simple solid-state relay can switch power cheaply, while a reversing motor starter adds the contactors and overload protection needed to run a motor in both directions. Here's how the two options stack up.
Quick Verdict
If your job only calls for switching a heater, lamp, or similar AC load, the $8 INDUSTRIAL SPARE SSR-40DA relay is the smart budget pick. If you need to reverse a three-phase motor and protect it against overload, the $74.99 Allen Bradley 100-C09*10 reversing motor starter is the more complete solution.
Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | INDUSTRIAL SPARE SSR-40DA | AB 100-C09*10 Reversing Motor Starter |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $8.00 | $74.99 |
| Type | Solid-state relay | Reversing motor starter |
| Condition | New - open box | Used |
| Overload relay | None listed | 1.6/5A overload relay included |
| Coil voltage | Not listed | 120V Coil |
Where Each Product Wins
The SSR-40DA relay wins on price and simplicity. For $8, you get a compact solid-state relay rated for 24/480V, which can switch a lot of AC loads without needing a coil circuit or mechanical contactor. That makes it an attractive spare-or-replacement part for basic on/off duty.
The Allen Bradley 100-C09 wins on capability. It is a reversing motor starter, meaning it pairs two contactors with a mechanical interlock so a motor can be safely run in either direction. It also comes with a 1.6/5A overload relay and a 120V coil, plus the connecting wire between the contactors. That's a complete motor-control package, not just a switch.
Product Notes
INDUSTRIAL SPARE SSR-40DA RELAY 24/480V NSNP
For a low-cost relay that can handle a 24/480V AC load, this SSR-40DA is hard to beat. It is listed as new open-box, so you are getting an unused unit without the original packaging for just $8. Because it is a solid-state relay, it switches silently and has no coil to energize, which is handy for simple control panels or bench work. The clear limitation is that it is only a relay. It will not give you reversing, overload protection, or the contactor wiring you need for a motor starter. If your application is just turning a load on and off, the SSR-40DA is a practical, wallet-friendly choice.
AB 100-C09*10 Reversing motor starter Contactor 1.6/5A overload relay 120V Coil
This Allen Bradley unit is a complete reversing motor starter. It includes the 1.6/5A overload relay and the connecting wire between the two contactors, so it is ready to be wired into a motor circuit that needs forward/reverse operation. The 120V coil is a common control voltage in industrial panels. At $74.99, it costs more than the bare relay, but you are paying for the extra contactors, mechanical interlock, overload relay, and wiring. The main caveat is condition: this starter is listed as used, so inspect it for wear before installation. If you need dependable reversing motor control, this is the more complete solution.
Final Choice by Use Case
Choose the INDUSTRIAL SPARE SSR-40DA when you need a low-cost relay to switch an AC load and don't need motor reversing or overload protection. It's the right spare for simple on/off applications.
Choose the Allen Bradley 100-C09 when you need a reversing motor starter with a 1.6/5A overload relay and a 120V coil. The higher price buys you the full contactor assembly and the safety features that a motor-reversing circuit requires.
