Best Compact VFDs Under 1kW – Ideal for Small Motors and OEM Panels
Compact variable frequency drives (VFDs) under 1kW are the backbone of small automation systems, OEM panels, and light-duty machinery. Whether you’re controlling a fractional horsepower motor, fan, or small conveyor, choosing a reliable and efficient drive can make a big difference in performance and panel space. Below, we’ve listed the best compact VFDs under 1kW for 2025, ideal for small motors, conveyors, mixers, and OEM builds.
Before you choose, use our free tools to correctly size and configure your drive:
- ⚙️ VFD Sizing Calculator
- ⚙️ VFD Cable Sizing Calculator
- ⚙️ Braking Resistor Calculator
- ⚙️ Motor Starter Selection Calculator
1) Danfoss VLT® Micro Drive FC-051 – 132F0005
The Danfoss FC-051 is a proven small-form inverter built for OEMs and HVAC engineers. Compact, energy-efficient, and easy to configure, it’s ideal for controlling small motors under 1kW.
- 🌀 Built-in fan/pump macros for plug-and-play setup
- ⚡ High part-load efficiency with low standby consumption
- 🔌 Integrated RFI filter and easy DIN-rail mount design
- 🌡 Operates up to 50 °C ambient without derating
Best for: Small conveyors, fans, mixers, and OEM panels.
2) ABB ACS355-03E-02A5-2 – ACS355-03E-02A5-2
The ABB ACS355-03E-02A5-2 is a compact, durable drive built for performance and reliability in small machines. Its intuitive keypad and advanced protection features make it a favourite for OEM panel builders.
- 💡 Sensorless vector control for stable low-speed torque
- 🔒 Extensive protection – overvoltage, undervoltage, overload, stall prevention
- 🧠 Simple parameter copy and keypad operation
- 📦 Lightweight housing, ideal for compact panels
Best for: OEM conveyors, dosing pumps, and general machine automation.
3) Schneider ATV320U04N4B – ATV320U04N4B
Designed specifically for small-motor control, the Schneider Altivar 12 offers industrial performance in a minimal footprint. It’s built to last in demanding environments and supports both single and three-phase inputs.
- 🔧 Plug-and-play motor control with integrated logic functions
- 📈 150% overload for 60 seconds – suitable for demanding start-ups
- 🛡 Conformal-coated boards for better humidity resistance
- ⚙️ DIN-rail or wall-mount installation options
Best for: Packaging lines, dosing pumps, and small compressors.
4) Allen Bradley 25B-B2P5N104 – 25B-B2P5N104
The Allen Bradley 25B-B2P5N104 is a next-generation compact VFD built for OEMs. It offers simple integration, fast commissioning, and solid performance for continuous small-motor duty.
- 🧠 Intuitive keypad and NFC mobile setup via app
- ⚙️ 150% overload capacity for demanding starts
- 🔌 Integrated EMC filter and internal brake transistor
- 💨 Excellent torque performance even at low speeds
Best for: Mixers, lab equipment, and small industrial conveyors.
5) Delta VFD007E43A – VFD007E43A
The Delta VFD series combines compact size with excellent performance and unbeatable value. Designed for OEM applications, it supports both open-loop and sensorless vector control with smooth acceleration curves.
- ⚡ Three-phase 380 V input → three-phase output
- 📱 Digital keypad with multi-function LED display
- 🔋 Built-in PID control and Modbus RTU communication
- 🧩 Wide input voltage tolerance and soft start capability
Best for: OEM panels, conveyors, agitators, and dosing systems.
6) Lenze E82EV371K2C – E82EV371K2C
The Lenze E82EV371K2C is one of the smallest drives on the market. Despite its size, it offers impressive control precision, robust build quality, and excellent reliability in small-motor setups.
- 💪 Compact 67 mm width – smallest in its class
- 📊 Sensorless vector control with 150% overload rating
- 🔌 Detachable keypad and optional communication modules
- 🧱 Robust IP20 housing ideal for panel integration
Best for: Small agitators, feeders, or compact process machines.
7) Yaskawa CIPR-GA50B4001ABBA – CIPR-GA50B4001ABBA
Yaskawa CIPR-GA50B4001ABBA is a workhorse micro drive, offering torque boost, powerful motor control, and high overload capacity for compact machinery. It’s designed for reliability, longevity, and thermal stability.
- 🔩 Heavy-duty mode – 150% overload for 60 seconds
- 🧠 Dual PID control for process and torque regulation
- 🌡 50 °C ambient rating with fan cooling
- 🛠 Easy parameter copy and Modbus RTU standard
Best for: Compressors, agitators, or OEM machinery with high torque loads.
8) Siemens SINAMICS V20 – 6SL3210-5BB17-5UV1
The Siemens V20 series delivers reliable performance for small automation systems and OEM panels. It’s one of the most globally used compact drives and features smart energy-saving functions.
- ⚙️ Simple setup with Quick Commissioning Menu
- 💡 Energy-saving mode for light load operation
- 🔧 150% overload for 60 seconds / 200% for 3 seconds
- 🔗 Integrated Modbus RTU communication
Best for: OEM control panels, light conveyors, or small mixers.
Quick Comparison Table
| Model | Input Voltage | Power | Overload | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Danfoss FC-051 | 1-Phase 230V | 0.37kW | 150% / 60s | Fans, Conveyors |
| ABB ACS355-03E-02A5-2 | 1-Phase 230V | 0.55kW | 150% / 60s | OEM Panels, Mixers |
| Schneider ATV320U04N4B | 3-Phase 380V | 0.37kW | 150% / 60s | Pumps, Compressors |
| Allen Bradley 25B-B2P5N104 | 1-Phase 380V | 0.4kW | 150% / 60s | Mixers, Lab Equipment |
| Delta VFD007E43A | 1-Phase 230V | 0.75kW | 150% / 60s | Small Motors |
| Lenze E82EV371K2C | 1-Phase 230V | 0.37kW | 150% / 60s | Agitators, Feeders |
| Yaskawa CIPR-GA50B4001ABBA | 3-Phase 380V | 0.2kW | 150% / 60s | Compressors |
| Siemens SINAMICS V20 | 1-Phase 230V | 0.75kW | 200% / 3s | OEM Machines |
Selection Tips for Small Drives
- Overload Rating: Always select a drive with at least 150% overload for small motors.
- Footprint: Compact drives save panel space — critical in OEM builds.
- Environment: Choose IP20 for clean panels, or IP55/IP66 for harsh environments.
- Control Type: Use sensorless vector for torque-demanding loads like mixers or conveyors.
- Integration: Match communication protocols with your PLC or controller.
Conclusion
Compact VFDs under 1kW have evolved to deliver the same precision and protection found in larger models, without sacrificing space. From the versatile Danfoss FC-051 to the ultra-small Yaskawa CIPR-GA50B4001ABBA, there’s a reliable option for every small motor application. Whether you’re an OEM builder or retrofitting a machine, these drives offer outstanding performance and compact efficiency.
At Drive Outlet Megastore, we stock genuine Danfoss, Schneider, Mitsubishi, WEG, Toshiba, Siemens, Delta, and Control Techniques drives — all with a 2-year warranty and next-day UK delivery. Contact our team today for expert advice and same-day quotations.
