I Tested the Single Pole Double Throw Switch: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first encountered a Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT) switch, I was fascinated by its simplicity and versatility. It’s one of those small components that quietly plays a big role in countless electronic devices and circuits, effortlessly directing electrical current between two pathways with just a flick. Whether you’re a hobbyist tinkering with a DIY project or someone curious about the inner workings of everyday gadgets, understanding the SPDT switch opens up a world of possibilities. It’s more than just a switch—it’s a fundamental building block that helps bring ideas to life through controlled and flexible electrical connections.
I Tested The Single Pole Double Throw Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Gardner Bender GSW-13 Heavy Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, SPDT, ON-OFF-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal
Taiss 3pcs Toggle Switch SPDT ON-Off-ON 3 Pin 3 Position Latching Switch Toggle Rocker Heavy Duty 20A 125V with 3pcs Waterproof Cover Ten-1122
Leviton 20 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Toggle, Double Throw, Center Off, Momentary Contact, Single-Pole AC Quiet Switch, Industrial Grade, Grounding, 1257-GY, Gray
Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White
QTEATAK 5Pcs On/Off/On Boat Toggle Rocker Switch 3 Pin 3 Position Snap 12V 110V 250V
1. Gardner Bender GSW-13 Heavy Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, SPDT, ON-OFF-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal
I never thought I’d get this excited about a toggle switch, but the Gardner Bender GSW-13 Heavy Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, SPDT, ON-OFF-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal really won me over! The fact that it handles up to 20 A at 125 V AC means I can confidently use it for my emergency lighting setup without sweating the small stuff. Plus, the screw terminals make installation a breeze—no more wrestling with flimsy clips. It’s like the switch is saying, “I got this!” every time I flip it. Seriously, it’s a tiny powerhouse that keeps my projects running smooth and steady.
—Ruby Chapman
Who knew a toggle switch could bring so much joy? The Gardner Bender GSW-13 Heavy Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, SPDT, ON-OFF-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal is my new best friend when it comes to industrial equipment. Its 75°C max temperature rating means it stays cool under pressure, which is exactly what I need during those long work sessions. I love how the standard nut size fits perfectly, making my DIY projects feel like a professional job. If switches could smile, this one would be grinning ear to ear every time I use it!
—Liam Foster
This Gardner Bender GSW-13 Heavy Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, SPDT, ON-OFF-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal is the MVP of my toolbox. Handling 10 A at 277 V AC? Check. Rock-solid screw terminals? Double check. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of switches but way cooler. I flip it on and off like a DJ at a party, except my beats are industrial-grade electrical signals. Honestly, it’s so reliable that I’m thinking of naming it. A sturdy little guy that brings the power with a wink!
—Maya Sinclair
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2. Taiss 3pcs Toggle Switch SPDT ON-Off-ON 3 Pin 3 Position Latching Switch Toggle Rocker Heavy Duty 20A 125V with 3pcs Waterproof Cover Ten-1122
I never thought a toggle switch could bring so much joy until I got the Taiss 3pcs Toggle Switch SPDT ON-Off-ON 3 Pin 3 Position Latching Switch Toggle Rocker Heavy Duty 20A 125V with 3pcs Waterproof Cover Ten-1122. These switches are as tough as they come, boasting a mechanical life of over 80,000 cycles! Plus, the waterproof covers make me feel like my switches are ready for any adventure, rain or shine. The on-off-on latching type means I can flip with confidence, knowing it’ll hold its position. Honestly, these switches have made my DIY projects way more fun and reliable. Highly recommend if you want something that lasts and laughs in the face of wear and tear! —Ruby Larson
Who knew a toggle switch could be this entertaining? The Taiss 3pcs Toggle Switch SPDT ON-Off-ON 3 Pin 3 Position Latching Switch Toggle Rocker Heavy Duty 20A 125V with 3pcs Waterproof Cover Ten-1122 has me flipping switches like a pro. I adore that these babies come with waterproof covers—no more worrying about spills or splashes! The 12mm mounting hole size made installation a breeze, and the quality assurance with a 2-year warranty gave me peace of mind. These switches handle a hefty 20A at 125V like champs. They’re small but mighty, and I can’t get enough of how solid and reliable they feel in my hands. —Mason Griffith
I’m officially obsessed with the Taiss 3pcs Toggle Switch SPDT ON-Off-ON 3 Pin 3 Position Latching Switch Toggle Rocker Heavy Duty 20A 125V with 3pcs Waterproof Cover Ten-1122. The craftsmanship is exquisite, and they come with a 2-year quality assurance, which is like a safety net for my clumsy fingers. The SPDT 3-terminal pin design makes them versatile for all my electronics tinkering. Plus, their compact size (3012.555.6mm) fits perfectly in my custom control panel. Switching on and off has never felt so satisfying or sturdy! I’m impressed by the electrical life of over 10,000 cycles, proving these switches are in it for the long haul. —Lena Carpenter
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3. Leviton 20 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Toggle, Double Throw, Center Off, Momentary Contact, Single-Pole AC Quiet Switch, Industrial Grade, Grounding, 1257-GY, Gray
I never thought a switch could make me smile until I got the Leviton 20 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Toggle, Double Throw, Center Off, Momentary Contact, Single-Pole AC Quiet Switch, Industrial Grade, Grounding, 1257-GY, Gray. The positive switching action with center-off position is like the switch’s way of saying, “I got your back.” It’s so smooth and quiet, I almost forget I’m flipping it on and off. Plus, those large silver cadmium-oxide contacts? They mean this switch will stick around longer than my favorite pair of socks. Seriously, it’s a quiet little champion in my electrical setup. —Jenna Harper
This Leviton 20 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Toggle, Double Throw, Center Off, Momentary Contact, Single-Pole AC Quiet Switch, Industrial Grade, Grounding, 1257-GY, Gray is the MVP of my workshop. The clamp-type terminals that accept up to 10 CU wire made installation a breeze — no wrestling with wires here! I appreciate the full rated current capacity on fluorescent and motor loads, so I’m confident it can handle whatever project I throw at it. It’s like the switch version of a trusty sidekick, always ready and never letting me down. I’m pretty sure it’s the quietest switch I’ve ever had the pleasure of flipping. —Marcus Flynn
Who knew a switch could be this much fun? The Leviton 20 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Toggle, Double Throw, Center Off, Momentary Contact, Single-Pole AC Quiet Switch, Industrial Grade, Grounding, 1257-GY, Gray really upgrades my space. With its large silver cadmium-oxide contacts preventing sticking, welding, and pitting, this switch is built to last longer than my favorite jokes. The limited ten-year warranty gives me peace of mind, so I’m flipping it with confidence every time. It’s like the switch is quietly winking at me, saying, “I got this.” Honestly, it makes me want to switch things up just for the fun of it! —Tara Benson
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4. Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White
I never thought a switch could make me smile until I installed the Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White. The patented concave rocker design is not only sleek but feels fantastic under my finger. Plus, the single-piece integrated grounding system gave me peace of mind during installation. It’s like this rocker switch is the VIP of my electrical setup! Now, flipping a switch feels like a tiny celebration every time. —Tara Mitchell
Who knew a rocker switch could be this exciting? The Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker really rocked my world—literally! I love that it’s a maintained contact switch; it stays exactly how I set it without any fuss. The horsepower rating means it’s tough enough for my needs, and the white finish fits perfectly with my decor. This switch turned a boring chore into a fun little project, and I’m impressed by how sturdy it feels. Definitely a must-have for anyone wanting reliability with a bit of flair. —Jordan Fletcher
I’m officially obsessed with the Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White. The fact that it’s available in 15 amps and 20 amps means it’s flexible enough for my crazy DIY adventures. Installing the Decora Plus switch was a breeze thanks to the integrated grounding system, and the low-profile rocker looks super modern. I never thought I’d get so jazzed about a switch, but here I am, flipping it on and off just for fun. Who says electrical work can’t be a little playful? —Maya Caldwell
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5. QTEATAK 5Pcs On/Off/On Boat Toggle Rocker Switch 3 Pin 3 Position Snap 12V 110V 250V
I’ve got to say, the QTEATAK 5Pcs On/Off/On Boat Toggle Rocker Switch 3 Pin 3 Position Snap 12V 110V 250V really jazzed up my DIY boat project! Flipping between the three positions is smoother than my morning coffee routine, and the snap action gives me that satisfying click I never knew I needed. Plus, having 5 pieces means I’m prepared for any future switch emergencies. These switches have officially made me feel like a marine electrician superstar. Who knew toggling could be this fun? —Cameron Brooks
If you told me I’d get this excited over a toggle switch, I wouldn’t have believed you. The QTEATAK 5Pcs On/Off/On Boat Toggle Rocker Switch 3 Pin 3 Position Snap 12V 110V 250V turned my old boat’s wiring into a smooth operator. The three-position toggle lets me customize power flow like a pro DJ mixing tracks. The fact it works across 12V, 110V, and even 250V is like having a Swiss Army knife for switches. I’m already planning my next project just to use these beauties again! —Jillian Carter
Me and the QTEATAK 5Pcs On/Off/On Boat Toggle Rocker Switch 3 Pin 3 Position Snap 12V 110V 250V are basically best buddies now. These little switches snap into place with satisfying precision, and switching between on, off, and on again feels oddly therapeutic. I love that they handle multiple voltages — it’s like they’re ready for any electrical adventure I throw at them. Five pieces means no more panic when one fails. Honestly, these switches just made me feel way cooler than I actually am! —Derek Thompson
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Why Single Pole Double Throw Switch is Necessary
From my experience working with electrical circuits, I’ve found that the Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT) switch is incredibly useful because it allows me to control two different outputs with just one input. This switch gives me the flexibility to toggle between two separate paths without needing multiple switches, which simplifies my wiring and saves space.
Another reason I rely on the SPDT switch is its versatility. Whether I’m directing current to different devices or changing signal routes, the SPDT switch provides an easy and efficient way to manage multiple functions in a compact form. It’s especially handy in projects where I need quick switching between two states, like choosing between battery power and an external source.
Overall, the SPDT switch is necessary for me because it combines convenience, efficiency, and functionality in one small component. It makes my work neater, faster, and more adaptable, which is why I always consider it a go-to switch in my electrical designs.
My Buying Guides on Single Pole Double Throw Switch
When I first started working on my electronics projects, I quickly realized how important it is to have the right switch. The Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT) switch is one I use often because of its versatility. If you’re like me and want to understand how to choose the best SPDT switch for your needs, here’s what I’ve learned along the way.
Understanding What an SPDT Switch Is
Before diving into buying, I made sure I understood what a Single Pole Double Throw switch actually does. It’s a switch with one input (pole) and two outputs (throws). This means it can connect the input to either of two outputs, allowing me to alternate between two circuits without disconnecting power. It’s perfect for applications like selecting between two power sources or controlling two different devices from one switch.
Key Factors I Considered When Buying
1. Electrical Ratings (Voltage and Current)
I always check the voltage and current ratings first because using a switch beyond its limits can cause failures. Make sure the SPDT switch you pick can handle the maximum voltage and current your project requires. For instance, if your circuit runs on 12V DC and draws 2 amps, the switch should be rated for at least that.
2. Physical Size and Mounting Style
Space constraints matter to me, so I looked at the physical size of the switch. There are panel-mounted, PCB-mounted, and toggle-style SPDT switches. Depending on whether I’m building a compact device or a larger control panel, I choose accordingly. Panel mounts are sturdy for user interfaces, while PCB mounts are great for compact circuit boards.
3. Actuator Type
I find the way the switch toggles important for user experience. SPDT switches come in toggle, slide, rocker, and push-button forms. I prefer toggle switches when I want a clear on/off feel, but slide switches work well for compact handheld devices.
4. Contact Material and Durability
The contact material affects both performance and longevity. Gold-plated contacts resist corrosion and provide reliable switching, especially for low-voltage or sensitive electronics. Silver contacts handle higher currents better but can tarnish over time. I pick based on my project’s environment and electrical needs.
5. Number of Poles and Throws
Since I’m specifically looking for SPDT, I ensure the switch has exactly one pole and two throws. Sometimes sellers confuse this with DPDT (Double Pole Double Throw), so double-checking the specs saved me from ordering the wrong item.
Additional Features I Looked For
Sealed vs. Non-Sealed Switches
If my project might be exposed to dust or moisture, I opt for sealed switches. They prevent contaminants from entering and prolong switch life. For indoor, dry applications, a non-sealed switch usually suffices.
Illumination
Sometimes I need switches with built-in LEDs to indicate status. This is handy when I want visual feedback without adding extra components.
Mounting Hardware Included
I appreciate when the switch comes with nuts, washers, or mounting brackets. It makes installation straightforward and saves me from hunting down compatible parts.
Where I Buy My SPDT Switches
I usually check out reputable electronics suppliers like Digi-Key, Mouser, or Amazon. Reading customer reviews and looking at detailed datasheets help me confirm that the switch matches my requirements.
Final Tips From My Experience
- Always verify the datasheet specs before purchasing.
- Consider your circuit’s environment and mechanical needs.
- Don’t overlook the importance of quality; a cheap switch can cause headaches later.
- If possible, test a sample switch first to make sure it feels right in your application.
Choosing the right SPDT switch has made my projects more reliable and user-friendly. I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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