Best Motor Starters of 2025

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 6, 2025

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Motor starters are an essential component for any industrial or commercial application that requires the use of electric motors. These devices are designed to provide a safe and reliable way to start and stop motors, protecting them from damage due to overloading, short circuits, and other electrical faults. Motor starters come in a variety of types and configurations, including direct-on-line starters, soft starters, and variable frequency drives. They are also available in different sizes and ratings, making it easy to find the right starter for any motor application. With their advanced safety features and reliable performance, motor starters are an indispensable tool for any business that relies on electric motors for its operations.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Hyper Engineering Soft Starter SS1B16-32SN Cover #TOP 1
Hyper Engineering Soft Starter SS1B16-32SN
ftb score rating icon 9.9
AIRGO AC Soft Starter Cover #TOP 2
AIRGO AC Soft Starter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Siemens Heavy Duty Motor Starter with Auto/Manual Reset Cover #TOP 3
Siemens Heavy Duty Motor Starter with Auto/Manual Reset
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Motor Starters

#TOP 1

Hyper Engineering Soft Starter SS1B16-32SN

Hyper Engineering
Single Phase Residential 5-7 Ton
Gray
5-7 Ton
Hyper Engineering Soft Starter SS1B16-32SN Cover
Hyper Engineering Soft Starter for 4-7 Ton Residential HVAC Air Conditioners SS1B16-32SN

The Hyper Soft Starter is designed for 5-7 ton HVAC systems, making it ideal for your home, especially during power outages or emergencies. It significantly lowers the inrush current at startup by up to 70%, which helps prevent light flickering and reduces noise. Additionally, it protects your compressor and motor from issues caused by low voltage, while its delay function limits how often the motor starts in an hour. With automatic optimization of startup current and motor reversal protection, this unit ensures smooth operation even during brief power interruptions, making it user-friendly and efficient.

What We Like
Reduces inrush current
Protects compressor and motor
Limits motor starts
Easy installation
#TOP 2

AIRGO AC Soft Starter

AIRGO
08-16A
White
AIRGO AC Soft Starter Cover
AIRGO AC Soft Starter. Proprietary Reverse Motor Protection for Utility and/or Generator Power, Easy DIY Install - Wire kit Included, Install Inside AC with Smallest Soft Start Available. (08-16A)

The AIRGO Soft Starter is designed to enhance the performance and lifespan of your air conditioning unit. With its soft start technology, it gradually increases the compressor's power, reducing stress during startup. This feature not only extends the life of your AC but also ensures a smoother operation. It is compatible with most residential units ranging from 1.75 to 3.5 tons, making it a versatile choice for many households. Installation is quick and straightforward, allowing you to set it up without hassle. Plus, it operates efficiently in extreme temperatures, ensuring reliability in any climate.

What We Like
Extends AC unit lifespan
Wide compatibility range
Easy installation
Reliable in extreme temperatures
#TOP 3

Siemens Heavy Duty Motor Starter with Auto/Manual Reset

14DUD32AA
Black
Siemens Heavy Duty Motor Starter with Auto/Manual Reset Cover
Siemens 14DUD32AA Heavy Duty Motor Starter, Solid State Overload, Auto/Manual Reset, Open Type, Standard Width Enclosure, 3 Phase, 3 Pole, 1 NEMA Size, 5.5-22A Amp Range, A1 Frame Size, 110-120/220-240 at 60Hz Coil Voltage , Black

This Siemens motor starter features solid state overload protection and auto/manual reset options. The open type enclosure has a standard width and is suitable for 3 phase, 3 pole systems with a 1 NEMA size and A1 frame size. This motor starter has a 5.5-22A amp range and a coil voltage of 110-120/220-240 at 60Hz.

What We Like
Offers solid state overload protection
Has both auto and manual reset options
Compatible with 3 phase, 3 pole systems with a 1 NEMA size and A1 frame size
#TOP 4

Siemens Heavy Duty Motor Starter with Solid State Overload

14DUE32AA
Black
Siemens Heavy Duty Motor Starter with Solid State Overload Cover
Siemens 14DUE32AA Heavy Duty Motor Starter, Solid State Overload, Auto/Manual Reset, Open Type, Standard Width Enclosure, 3 Phase, 3 Pole, 1 NEMA Size, 10-40A Amp Range, A1 Frame Size, 110-120/220-240 at 60Hz Coil Voltage , Black

This Siemens Heavy Duty Motor Starter with Solid State Overload is an open type enclosure designed for 3-phase, 3-pole, 1 NEMA size motors with an amp range of 10-40A. It features both auto/manual reset and a standard width enclosure, making it convenient for users to operate. The coil voltage is 110-120/220-240 at 60Hz, and it is designed with a black finish. It is perfect for those looking for a durable and reliable motor starter.

What We Like
Both auto/manual reset
Standard width enclosure
Solid state overload
#TOP 5

Siemens Motor Starter Protector 3RV20111JA10

3RV2011-1JA10
Black
Siemens Motor Starter Protector 3RV20111JA10 Cover
Siemens 3RV20111JA10 Motor Starter Protector, 7 to 10 Amp, Class 10 Overload Trip, Size S00, Screw Terminal

The Siemens Motor Starter Protector is designed for efficient motor control with an adjustable range of 7 to 10 amps. Its size S00 and screw terminal design make installation straightforward and reliable. You will appreciate the ON/OFF rotary handle that features a lockout option, ensuring safety during operation. The visible trip indication allows you to quickly check the status of your motor, giving you peace of mind. Additionally, the product meets various global standards, making it versatile for different applications and environments.

What We Like
Adjustable amp range
Easy installation
Safety lockout feature
Visible trip indication
Meets global standards
#TOP 6

Schneider Electric GP2E14 Motor Starter

Schneider Electric
GP2E14
6-10A
Schneider Electric GP2E14 Motor Starter Cover
Schneider Electric GP2E14 Easy TeSys 3 Phase Manual Thermal Magnetic Motor Starter, 3 Pole, Screw Clamp Terminals, Push Button, 6-10 Amps

The Schneider Electric Motor Starter is designed for three-phase motors, supporting up to 20 horsepower and operating at 690V AC. You will appreciate its manual push button for easy On/Off control, along with a reset switch for quick troubleshooting. This starter can handle up to 100,000 cycles at 440 volts, ensuring long-lasting performance. Its compact design not only saves space but also reduces installation time, making it a practical choice for HVAC systems, elevators, pumps, and more.

What We Like
High horsepower support
Easy manual operation
Long-lasting performance
Compact design
Quick installation
#TOP 7

Schneider 12A Motor Starter

Generic
LC1D09C
Schneider 12A Motor Starter Cover
Schneider Motor Starter Assemble 12A Coil 120V Overload Relay 9-13Amp.

The Schneider Motor Starter is designed to help you manage electrical motors efficiently. With a 12A coil and a voltage rating of 120V, this starter ensures reliable operation for your motor systems. The overload relay feature, which operates within a range of 9 to 13 amps, protects your equipment from overheating and potential damage. This safety aspect gives you peace of mind while using your motors. Additionally, its generic brand design allows for easy integration into various applications, making it a versatile choice for both DIY projects and professional setups.

What We Like
Reliable motor operation
Overload protection
Versatile applications
Easy integration
#TOP 8

SIEMENS 14CUC32AA Motor Starter

14CUC32AA
Black
SIEMENS 14CUC32AA Motor Starter Cover
Siemens 14CUC32AA Heavy Duty Motor Starter, Solid State Overload, Auto/Manual Reset, Open Type, Standard Width Enclosure, 3 Phase, 3 Pole, 0 NEMA Size, 3-12A Amp Range, A1 Frame Size, 110-120/220-240 at 60Hz Coil Voltage , Black

The SIEMENS 14CUC32AA Motor Starter is a heavy-duty starter designed for 3-phase motors. With its solid-state overload protection and auto/manual reset capabilities, this motor starter offers reliable and convenient operation. The open type enclosure and standard width design make it easy to install and maintain. The 3-12A amp range allows for flexibility in motor applications. The A1 frame size and 110-120/220-240 at 60Hz coil voltage ensure compatibility with a wide range of motors. Whether you need to start, stop, or protect your motor, the SIEMENS 14CUC32AA Motor Starter provides the convenience and reliability you need.

What We Like
Heavy-duty
Reliable
Flexible amp range
#TOP 9

CUTLER HAMMER AN16DN0 Motor Starter

D625372-AN16DN0
CUTLER HAMMER AN16DN0 Motor Starter Cover
CUTLER HAMMER AN16DN0 Size 1 Motor Starter 27A AMP 120V-AC 10HP D625372

This motor starter is designed to handle motors up to 10 HP, with a coil voltage of 120 V-AC. Its compact Size 1 design makes it easy to install and saves space in your electrical panel. This is a reliable option for starting and protecting your motor, providing a safe and efficient way to power your machinery.

What We Like
Can handle motors up to 10 HP
Compact Size 1 design saves space
Reliable for starting and protecting your motor
#TOP 10

Baomain Magnetic Starter HUEB-16K

HUEB-16K-18A
Baomain Magnetic Starter HUEB-16K Cover
Baomain Magnetic Starter HUEB-16K On Off Switch Enclosed 3 Pole 110V Coil 12.5-18A

Baomain Magnetic Starter HUEB-16K, also known as Baomain Starter, is a motor starter designed to provide convenience and efficiency in starting and stopping electric motors. With a coil voltage of 110V and a rated current of 18A, this starter is suitable for various motor applications. Its compact size of 158 x 86 x 95mm and lightweight design of 650g make it easy to install and transport. The Baomain Starter features an AC 660V Ui rating, ensuring the safety of your motor. Whether you need to start or stop your motor, this magnetic starter offers a reliable and efficient solution. Its enclosed 3-pole design further enhances its durability and protection. Overall, the Baomain Magnetic Starter HUEB-16K is a reliable and convenient choice for motor starting applications.

What We Like
Compact Size
Lightweight Design
Reliable and Efficient
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the two types of starter motor?

The power rating of the motor starter is based on the type of motor used. DC motor starters have ratings for DC horsepower. On the other hand, AC motor starters have a single-phase power and three-phase power rating. The rating of the motor starter is based on the size and type of load for which it was designed.

2. What are the 3 types of starter motor?

At PSI Power & Controls, we handle three major product types when it comes to motor starters: wye-delta open transmission, soft-start solid state, and wye-delta starter OEM.

3. What does a motor starter do?

Starters are devices that control the use of electrical power to equipment. As the name implies, starters “start” motors. They can also stop, reverse, accelerate and protect them. Starters are made from two building blocks: contactors and overloads.

4. What is a 3 phase motor starter?

This type of three-pole motor-starter is usually described as a three-phase across-the-line or full-voltage motor-starter because full line voltage is applied to the respective motor leads when the motor-starter solenoid coil is energized.

Editor's Notes

During our motor starter research, we found 24 motor starter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,062 customer reviews through our big data system to write the motor starters list. We found that most customers choose motor starters with an average price of $266.39.

The motor starters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of motor starters, including Hyper Engineering, AIRGO, SIEMENS, Schneider Electric, Cutler & Hammer. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 520 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.