This paper compares the switching losses of 60° discontinuous PWM according to the modulation index for SiC inverter systems. The characteristics of the modulation index under different motor operating conditions are investigated. The equation representing switching losses in SiC inverters is presented. The trade-off relationship between switching losses and total harmonic distortion with respect to the modulation index is examined. The validity of the comparison between switching losses and total harmonic distortion is verified through simulation results.