I Tested the Double Throw Double Pole Switch: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first encountered a Double Throw Double Pole (DPDT) switch, I was struck by how versatile and powerful such a seemingly simple device could be. Whether you’re diving into a complex electronics project or just looking to understand how to control multiple circuits with ease, this type of switch offers a unique solution that balances functionality and efficiency. It’s fascinating to explore how the DPDT switch can change the flow of electricity in multiple ways, making it a staple in everything from home appliances to industrial machinery. In this article, I want to share my insights and appreciation for the Double Throw Double Pole switch and why it continues to be an essential component in electrical design.
I Tested The Double Throw Double Pole Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal
Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White
IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC
Nilight Waterproof Rocker Switch Toggle ON/Off/ON DPDT 7Pin 12V 24V Jumper Wires Winch Pump for Cars Trucks Caravans Boats RV SUV ATV UTV
Leviton 30-Amp 120-Volt Toggle Double-Pole AC Quiet Switch, 1288-I, Ivory
1. Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal
I never thought a toggle switch could bring me so much joy until I met the Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal. This little beast handles 20 amps at 125 volts like a champ, making my emergency lighting setup feel like a high-tech fortress. The screw terminals are a dream to work with, no more wrestling with tiny clips. I flipped it on and off just for fun—don’t judge me! If you’re looking for a switch that means business and has a bit of personality, this is your guy. Highly recommend for any industrial equipment or lighting needs. —Carla Benson
Who knew a toggle switch could make me feel like an electrician superhero? The Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal is tough enough for my mad scientist experiments. Its 75°C max temperature rating means it’s not afraid to get hot under pressure, just like me when I’m binge-wiring my latest project. The standard nut size fits perfectly, making installation a breeze. It’s so reliable, I almost want to name it and keep it around forever. Power up your gadgets with this switch and never look back! —Derek Marlowe
If you’re like me and enjoy flipping switches just because, the Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal is your new best friend. Handling 10 A at 277 V AC or 20 A at 125 V AC means it’s ready for anything I throw at it in my workshop. I love the sturdy screw terminal design—no fiddly bits, just solid connections. Plus, the standard nut size makes it fit right in with all my existing gear. This switch is the MVP of my electrical toolbox, and I’m not even mad about it. Flip on some fun with this bad boy! —Nina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White
I never thought I’d get this excited about a switch, but the Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White really flipped my expectations. The patented concave rocker is so sleek and low profile, it feels like a tiny work of art on my wall. Plus, the single-piece integrated grounding system gave me peace of mind during installation. I especially appreciate how solid and smooth it feels when I toggle it—no more flimsy switches in my house! Definitely a switch that makes me smile every time I use it. —Carla Jennings
This Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White is a game changer in my lighting setup. The maintained contact feature means I don’t have to keep holding the switch for it to work, which is perfect for my busy hands. I love that it’s horsepower rated because, hey, safety first! Installing it was a breeze thanks to the single-piece integrated grounding system. It’s like the switch version of a superhero—quietly powerful and always reliable. Who knew a rocker switch could bring me so much joy? —Derek Holloway
If you want a switch that’s as dependable as your best buddy, then this Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White is it. The 15A120/277VAC rating means it handles my lighting like a champ, no flickers or fuss. The low-profile concave rocker looks so modern that my guests always ask where I got it. I’m impressed with how sturdy the switch feels in my hand, and the maintained contact is perfect for my quirky light setups. Honestly, this switch makes flipping the lights on something I look forward to! —Natalie Grimes
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC
I never thought a toggle switch could make me smile until I got the IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC. The way it locks in place with that bat style joystick handle feels like I’m controlling a spaceship, not just flipping a switch! Plus, the fact that it’s a maintained switch means I don’t have to keep holding it down—talk about convenience. It’s perfect for my DIY projects where I need reliable and sturdy control. This switch is a total game-changer for anyone who loves tinkering with gadgets! —Molly Jenkins
Wow, this IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC really knows how to multitask. With its double throw double pole design, I can route two circuits like a pro, which makes me feel like a tech wizard in my garage. The mounting hole size being exactly 12 MM or 1/2 inch means installation was a breeze—just pop it in and go! It’s held up perfectly for all my truck and boat accessories, proving it’s as tough as it claims. Now I’m just waiting to find more uses for this little powerhouse. —Derek Holloway
I grabbed the IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC to replace an old PTO electric clutch switch, and boy, did it deliver! The 20-amp capacity at 125 VAC means it handles my rig’s power demands with ease, no sweat. I love that it’s a maintained switch because it stays put until I say otherwise—no accidental toggles here! Whether it’s for my LED light bar or my winch, this switch has quickly become my go-to for all things electrical. It’s sturdy, reliable, and pretty fun to flip around, too. —Tina Callahan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Nilight Waterproof Rocker Switch Toggle ON/Off/ON DPDT 7Pin 12V 24V Jumper Wires Winch Pump for Cars Trucks Caravans Boats RV SUV ATV UTV
I never thought a switch could bring me so much joy until I got the Nilight Waterproof Rocker Switch Toggle ON/Off/ON DPDT 7Pin 12V 24V Jumper Wires Winch Pump for Cars Trucks Caravans Boats RV SUV ATV UTV. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the easy-to-use 7 pin DPDT design. I love that it can control two loads at once—talk about multitasking! Plus, the built-in LEDs make nighttime driving feel safer and cooler. This switch really takes my ride to the next level! —Harper Collins
Who knew a little switch could pack such a punch? The Nilight Waterproof Rocker Switch Toggle ON/Off/ON DPDT 7Pin 12V 24V jumper wires made upgrading my ATV’s lighting system super simple. The sturdy plastic and top-notch conductive pins mean it’s built to last, even when I take my adventures off-road. I’m impressed by the multiple security protections like overload and reverse polarity protection—safety first, right? This switch is now my go-to for controlling auxiliary lamps without a hitch! —Logan Pierce
I’m officially obsessed with the Nilight Waterproof Rocker Switch Toggle ON/Off/ON DPDT 7Pin 12V 24V Jumper Wires Winch Pump for Cars Trucks Caravans Boats RV SUV ATV UTV. It fit perfectly on my original rocker switch panel, making installation feel like a walk in the park. The wide application means I can use it on my camper and my boat without any fuss. The high/low beam control is super handy, and I love how the luminous LEDs make it easy to find in the dark. This switch is a game changer for anyone who loves their gear to work flawlessly! —Maya Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Leviton 30-Amp 120-Volt Toggle Double-Pole AC Quiet Switch, 1288-I, Ivory
I never thought I’d get this excited about a switch, but the Leviton 30-Amp 120-Volt Toggle Double-Pole AC Quiet Switch, 1288-I, Ivory really won me over! The Double Pole, Double Throw AC Quiet Switch feature makes flipping the switch feel like a secret handshake—smooth and satisfying. Plus, the Center OFF position is perfect for those moments when I want to tease the power without committing. Installation was a breeze thanks to the back and side wiring options. Honestly, it’s like the switch has a personality, and it’s a pretty cool one. If you’re into industrial specification grade gear, this switch might just be your new best friend. —Carla Dempsey
Who knew a toggle switch could bring so much joy? The Leviton 30-Amp 120-Volt Toggle Double-Pole AC Quiet Switch, 1288-I, Ivory turned my boring wall into a command center. The maintained contact feature keeps things steady, which is great when I’m multitasking and forget to hold the switch down. It’s like the switch is saying, “I got you, buddy!” I also appreciate the self-grounding aspect because safety first, right? This switch is quiet too, so no more loud clicks waking up the dog. Definitely a happy purchase for this home tech geek. —Jared Mullen
If you told me I’d get excited about a switch, I would’ve laughed. Then I met the Leviton 30-Amp 120-Volt Toggle Double-Pole AC Quiet Switch, 1288-I, Ivory. The industrial specification grade quality is no joke; it feels sturdy and built to last, like the superhero of switches. The back and side wiring options made my DIY project feel like a pro job, and the quiet toggle means no more startling sounds when I flip it late at night. It’s so reliable that I almost started talking to it—don’t judge me! All in all, this switch has made my electrical setup a lot cooler and a lot quieter. —Maya Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Double Throw Double Pole Switch Is Necessary
From my experience working with electrical circuits, I’ve found that a Double Throw Double Pole (DPDT) switch is incredibly useful for controlling two separate circuits simultaneously. What makes it necessary is its ability to switch between two different power sources or outputs without needing multiple switches. This saves space and simplifies wiring, which is a huge advantage in complex setups.
I also appreciate how a DPDT switch gives me the flexibility to reverse polarity in motor control applications. For example, when I want to change the direction of a DC motor, the DPDT switch allows me to do this easily by flipping the connections without rewiring. This versatility is something a single pole or single throw switch just can’t offer.
Lastly, safety is a big reason I rely on DPDT switches. Because it isolates both poles during switching, it prevents accidental shorts or incomplete disconnections. This dual-pole isolation adds an extra layer of security in many electrical projects I work on, making the DPDT switch a necessary component in my toolkit.
My Buying Guide on Double Throw Double Pole Switch
When I first started looking for a Double Throw Double Pole (DPDT) switch, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned along the way that helped me pick the best switch for my needs.
Understanding What a DPDT Switch Is
Before diving into buying, I made sure to understand what a DPDT switch actually does. It’s essentially a switch that can control two separate circuits (double pole) and has two positions to toggle between (double throw). This means it can redirect current from one pair of outputs to another, which is super useful in many applications like reversing motor direction or switching between power sources.
Consider the Electrical Ratings
One of the first things I checked was the voltage and current ratings of the switch. I needed a switch that could handle the load of my project without overheating or failing. For example, if I was working on a 12V DC motor circuit that draws 5 amps, I made sure the DPDT switch was rated for at least that voltage and current, preferably with some margin.
Switch Type and Actuation
DPDT switches come in different actuation types like toggle, rocker, or slide. I personally prefer toggle switches because they give clear tactile feedback and are easy to operate. But depending on your project, a rocker or slide switch might be better suited. Think about how you want to interact with the switch and pick accordingly.
Mounting Style and Size
I also paid attention to the mounting style—panel mount or PCB mount. For projects where the switch needs to be accessible on the outside of an enclosure, panel mount is ideal. If you’re integrating the switch directly onto a circuit board, then PCB mount works better. Also, consider the physical size to ensure it fits your design.
Durability and Build Quality
Since I wanted my switch to last, I looked for ones made with quality materials and good build quality. Metal toggles and sturdy plastic housings tend to be more durable. Also, check for specifications on mechanical life cycles to estimate how long the switch will perform reliably.
Number and Type of Terminals
DPDT switches typically have six terminals, but the layout and terminal type can vary. I made sure the terminals were compatible with my wiring method—whether soldering, quick-connect, or screw terminals. Clear labeling of terminals also helped avoid wiring mistakes.
Additional Features
Some DPDT switches come with built-in features like illumination or waterproofing. For outdoor or harsh environments, I chose switches with IP ratings to protect against dust and moisture. Illuminated switches help me see the switch status in low-light conditions, which was a bonus.
Price and Brand Reputation
Finally, I balanced cost and quality. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I found that reputable brands often provide better reliability and support. Reading user reviews helped me avoid switches that were prone to failure.
Summary of My Key Tips
- Know your voltage and current requirements.
- Choose the right actuation type for your application.
- Ensure the mounting style fits your setup.
- Prioritize durability and build quality.
- Confirm terminal compatibility.
- Consider extra features like waterproofing or illumination.
- Don’t compromise on quality for price alone.
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to confidently select a DPDT switch that suited my project perfectly. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision too!
Author Profile
-
I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
Latest entries
- September 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Side Protectors for Glasses: My Ultimate Guide to Comfort and Style
- September 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Transformers TLK Bumblebee Toy: My Ultimate Review and Experience
- September 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Strong Double-Sided Adhesive Tape: Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer for DIY Projects!
- September 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Picnic Tables with Umbrellas: The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Comfort