When you're selecting a soft starter for your motor control setup, the two units on this comparison sit at nearly opposite ends of the industrial spectrum. On one side is a used Square D Size 5 reduced-voltage autotransformer starter rated at 200 HP and 250A, listed at $4,750. On the other is a brand-new Kimatek three-phase soft starter built for 40 HP and 60A, priced at $575. The $4,175 difference in list price is huge, but so is the difference in capability. The right choice comes down to the horsepower you need to start, the voltage you're feeding, and whether you prefer a heavyweight used unit or a compact new one.
Quick Verdict
If you need to start a 200 HP motor with reduced-voltage control and you're comfortable with used industrial gear, the Square D Size 5 is the unit to beat. It pairs a high 250A rating with an autotransformer design and an integrated breaker. If your motor is in the 40 HP class and you want a new, flexible starter that works across 200-575V, the Kimatek unit offers a modern solid-state solution with an auxiliary contact and a far lower price.
At a Glance
| Feature | Square D Size 5 200 HP | Kimatek 40HP 60A |
|---|---|---|
| Price | USD 4,750.00 | USD 575.00 |
| Horsepower | 200 HP | 40 HP |
| Current rating | 250A | 60A |
| Condition | Used | New |
| Key extras | Autotransformer, breaker | Auxiliary contact, cULus/CE listed |
Where the Square D Wins
The Square D is in a completely different class for high-horsepower needs. With a 200 HP rating and 250A capacity, it can handle motors that the 40 HP Kimatek cannot touch. The autotransformer-based reduced-voltage starting method is a traditional approach for large induction motors, and the unit includes a breaker as part of the package. If your application demands Size 5-style capacity, this is the clear choice.
Where the Kimatek Wins
The Kimatek is the modern, compact option. It's new, rated for 40HP at 400V, and supports a wide input range of 200-575V at 45-66Hz. The built-in auxiliary contact gives you feedback for interlocking or status monitoring. It's also cULus listed and CE compliant under IEC 60947-4, and you can mount it on a DIN rail or a chassis. For a smaller three-phase motor, it offers an accessible price and flexible installation.
Product Notes
Square D Size 5 Reduced Voltage Motor Soft Starter 200 HP Autotransformer 250A
This used Square D unit is the heavy hitter. It delivers 200 HP and 250A of starting capacity, with an autotransformer for reduced-voltage starts and an integrated breaker. The main limitation is the used condition, along with the note that included parts are limited to what's pictured and described. For a large motor, the 200 HP rating is the deciding factor.
3ph 40HP Motor Soft Starter 60A 200-575V 45-66Hz w/ aux contact ASAC-0/030/5/1
This new Kimatek unit is the flexible option for 40HP motors. It handles 60A and works with 200-575V at 45-66Hz, with an auxiliary contact for status wiring. The cULus and CE certifications support industrial applications, and the DIN rail or chassis mount simplifies installation. The trade-off is its 40HP / 60A ceiling, so it can't scale to the Square D's high-horsepower territory.
Final Choice by Use Case
Choose the Square D Size 5 if you're starting a 200 HP motor and want a used reduced-voltage autotransformer starter with a 250A rating and a breaker. Choose the Kimatek 40HP if you're working with a smaller three-phase motor and want a new, compact starter with an auxiliary contact, wide voltage tolerance, and DIN rail mounting. The price gap reflects the enormous difference in horsepower capacity, so let your motor size guide the decision.
