In the dynamic landscape of industrial automation, selecting the right electrical contactor is critical to ensuring efficiency, safety, and reliability. As we progress through 2025, the demand for robust motor control solutions has never been higher.
Whether you are upgrading an HVAC system, managing a manufacturing assembly line, or maintaining heavy-duty compressors, the quality of your contactor determines the uptime of your operation. At Kent Store, we stock factory-new components from the world’s most trusted manufacturers.
Below, we delve into the top five electrical contactors setting benchmarks in the industry this year, all available for same-day shipping from our facility.
Top 5 Electrical Contactors for 2025
1. Allen-Bradley 100-C Series (The Industrial Standard)
Best For: Critical motor control, HVAC, and pump panels.
The Allen-Bradley Bulletin 100-C IEC contactors are legendary for their durability. They are the go-to choice for engineers who cannot afford downtime. The 100-C43 model is a powerhouse, offering superior current ratings in a space-saving design.
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Why We Love It: It features low power consumption coils and switching capabilities ideal for both 120V and 240V control circuits.
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Key Spec: 43 Amp (AC-3) / 85 Amp (AC-1)
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Shop Now:
View Allen Bradley 100-C43D00
2. Schneider Electric TeSys D Series (Global Versatility)
Best For: Integration into diverse automation systems and global machinery.
Schneider Electric’s TeSys D contactors are perhaps the most recognized in the world. Known for their "Quick-Connect" technology and compliance with international standards (UL, CSA, IEC), they are a safe bet for any project. The LC1D32 is one of our top sellers for a reason.
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Why We Love It: The patented EverLink™ power terminal technology ensures a lasting connection reliability, even in high-vibration environments.
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Key Spec: 32 Amp (AC-3) / 50 Amp (AC-1)
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Shop Now:
View Schneider Electric LC1D32
3. Benshaw RC Series (Heavy-Duty Value)
Best For: Rugged applications requiring a cost-effective, heavy-duty solution.
Benshaw has made a name for itself by offering rugged dependability at a competitive price point. The RC-100A is a direct replacement for their older RSC line, maintaining the same robust build quality but with a modern design.
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Why We Love It: It comes pre-installed with side-mounted auxiliary contacts (1NO/1NC), saving you the hassle of buying extra parts.
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Key Spec: 100 Amp | 40 HP @ 230V / 75 HP @ 460V
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Shop Now:
View Benshaw RC-100A
4. Eaton XTCE Series (Compact Efficiency)
Best For: Panel builders looking to save space and energy.
Eaton’s XT line represents a significant leap in contactor design. The XTCE080 units are engineered to have a very small footprint while handling high currents, allowing for smaller enclosure sizes.
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Why We Love It: The thermal efficiency is top-tier, generating less heat inside your cabinet, and the modular design makes adding overloads tool-free and fast.
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Key Spec: 80 Amp (AC-3) | 60 HP @ 460V
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Shop Now:
View Eaton XTCE080F00W
5. Siemens Sirius 3RT2 (Smart Innovation)
Best For: Modern, modular control systems.
Siemens Sirius contactors are designed for the future. The 3RT2046 is highly modular and built to integrate seamlessly with other Siemens protection devices.
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Why We Love It: They are incredibly robust and offer a lifespan that often exceeds competitive models in harsh cycling conditions.
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Key Spec: 95 Amp (AC-3) | 75 HP @ 460V
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Shop Now:
View Siemens 3RT2046-1AK60
Understanding Electrical Contactors
An electrical contactor is an electrically controlled switch used for switching an electrical power circuit. Unlike a standard relay, contactors are designed to be directly connected to high-current load devices.
Key functions include:
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Motor Control: Starting and stopping electric motors in machinery.
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Lighting Control: Managing large banks of lights in industrial or commercial facilities.
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Heating Control: Operating industrial heaters and evaporators.
Selecting the Right Electrical Contactor
When choosing a contactor from Kent Store, consider the following:
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Load Type (Amperage & Horsepower): Ensure the contactor is rated for the Full Load Amps (FLA) of your motor or resistive load.
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Coil Voltage: This is the control voltage. Common options include 24V, 120V, 208/240V, and 480V. You must match this to your control circuit.
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Poles: Most motors require 3-Pole contactors. Lighting or single-phase loads may use 1-Pole or 2-Pole options.
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Brand Compatibility: If replacing an existing unit, sticking to the same brand (like replacing an Allen Bradley with an Allen Bradley) often ensures accessories like overloads will still fit.
Why Buy from Kent Store?
At Kent Electrical Supply, we don't just sell parts; we provide solutions. With over 40 years of experience and an inventory that includes hard-to-find and obsolete parts alongside the newest tech, we are your partner in industrial success.
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Same-Day Shipping on orders placed before 4 PM EST.
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Expert Support from a team that knows motor control inside and out.
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Trusted Brands like Allen Bradley, Square D, Eaton, and more.
Need help selecting the right contactor?