The decision: single-phase in, three-phase out, and how much motor you need
When a workshop machine needs three-phase power but only single-phase is available at the wall, a variable frequency drive is the bridge. The real question is how much motor you need to run. The 2.2 kW model at $65.83 and the 7.5 kW model at $119.34 both take 1-phase input and provide 3-phase output, but the roughly $53.50 gap between them comes down to horsepower, input flexibility, and control range.
Quick verdict
If your motor is in the light-duty range and you want a compact, easy-to-mount drive that protects your budget, choose the 2.2 kW VFD. If you are powering pumps, fans, compressors, or CNC equipment that can draw more power, and you need wider frequency control and flexible input wiring, the 7.5 kW VFD is the better investment.
Comparison table
| Feature | 2.2 kW VFD | 7.5 kW VFD |
|---|---|---|
| Price | USD 65.83 | USD 119.34 |
| Output power | 2.2 kW / 3 HP | 7.5 kW / 10 HP |
| Input phase | 1 phase | 1 or 3 phase |
| Input frequency | 50-60 Hz | 48-63 Hz |
Where each drive wins
The 2.2 kW VFD wins on price, size, and installation ease. Its narrow, compact body and independent air duct allow side-by-side mounting in a cabinet, and the external keyboard simplifies setup in tight spaces.
The 7.5 kW VFD wins on power, input options, and speed range. Its output rating handles much larger loads, and it accepts 1- or 3-phase input while producing frequencies from 0 to 400 Hz for CNC spindles and variable-speed work.
Product notes
1 to 3 Phase Variable Frequency Drive Inverter 2.2 KW VFD 220 V 3 HP
The 3 HP rating covers many benchtop machines, small conveyors, and manual mill or lathe conversions. The narrow body and independent air duct are designed for side-by-side mounting, so several drives can share a control cabinet without trapping heat. The keyboard can be mounted externally, which makes programming easier when the drive is tucked into a tight spot. Input current is 23 A, so the supply circuit needs to handle motor starts. The 50-60 Hz input rating means this drive is best for standard-speed motor applications rather than high-speed spindle work; if your machine is a fixed-speed motor in the 3 HP class, this keeps the cost low and the installation small.
1 To 3 Phase 7.5KW 10HP 220V CNC Variable Frequency Drive Inverter VFD VSD
This model gives you 7.5 kW / 10 HP in a single-phase-in, three-phase-out package. It uses SPWM control and a 0-400 Hz output range, so it suits constant-torque loads such as air compressors and HVAC units as well as variable-torque loads like pumps and fans. The input accepts 1- or 3-phase 220V, which means it can also act as a phase converter. Two sets of multiplex terminals provide analog and digital control inputs, giving more wiring options than typical budget drives. The trade-off is the higher price and the fact that a small motor will never use its full capacity, making it a better choice for larger machines or future expansion.
Final choice by use case
- For a small motor on a lathe, drill press, small conveyor, or similar standard-speed machine: choose the 1 to 3 Phase Variable Frequency Drive Inverter 2.2 KW VFD 220 V 3 HP.
- For larger pumps, fans, compressors, HVAC blowers, or CNC spindles where 0-400 Hz output and flexible input wiring matter: choose the 1 To 3 Phase 7.5KW 10HP 220V CNC Variable Frequency Drive Inverter VFD VSD.
