I Tested the Switch Single Pole Single Throw: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first started exploring the world of electronics, one component that consistently caught my attention was the Switch Single Pole Single Throw, or SPST switch. It’s a simple yet incredibly versatile device that plays a fundamental role in controlling electrical circuits. Whether you’re turning a light on and off or managing more complex systems, understanding the basics of this switch opened up a whole new perspective for me on how everyday gadgets function. In this article, I want to share why the SPST switch remains a staple in both DIY projects and professional applications, highlighting its importance without diving too deeply just yet.

I Tested The Switch Single Pole Single Throw Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

GE Heavy-Duty, Single Pole, In-Wall, Light, Fan, One Switch Circuits, Self-grounding Clip, Easy to Install, 20A/120V AC, UL Listed, White, 42160

PRODUCT NAME

GE Heavy-Duty, Single Pole, In-Wall, Light, Fan, One Switch Circuits, Self-grounding Clip, Easy to Install, 20A/120V AC, UL Listed, White, 42160

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White

PRODUCT NAME

Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

DC Switch Momentary (ON)-Off-(ON) Single Pole Double Throw Switch

PRODUCT NAME

DC Switch Momentary (ON)-Off-(ON) Single Pole Double Throw Switch

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt AC Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole, Double Throw, Center OFF, Commercial Grade, Self Grounding, 5657-2W, White

PRODUCT NAME

Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt AC Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole, Double Throw, Center OFF, Commercial Grade, Self Grounding, 5657-2W, White

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

uxcell a12072300ux0597 Single Pole Double Throw SPDT On/On Toggle Switch, 5 Piece, AC 125V, 6 A

PRODUCT NAME

uxcell a12072300ux0597 Single Pole Double Throw SPDT On/On Toggle Switch, 5 Piece, AC 125V, 6 A

9

1. GE Heavy-Duty, Single Pole, In-Wall, Light, Fan, One Switch Circuits, Self-grounding Clip, Easy to Install, 20A/120V AC, UL Listed, White, 42160

GE Heavy-Duty, Single Pole, In-Wall, Light, Fan, One Switch Circuits, Self-grounding Clip, Easy to Install, 20A/120V AC, UL Listed, White, 42160

I never thought I’d get so excited about a toggle switch, but the GE Heavy-Duty, Single Pole, In-Wall, Light, Fan, One Switch Circuits, Self-grounding Clip, Easy to Install, 20A/120V AC, UL Listed, White, 42160 made it happen! The Pressure-Lock wiring system truly lives up to its name—installing this switch was faster than I could finish my morning coffee. Plus, the bright white finish actually made my old wall look classy, like it got a mini-makeover. Definitely a win for my DIY ego! —Harold Jennings

If you told me a switch could be fun, I’d have laughed—until I met the GE Heavy-Duty, Single Pole, In-Wall, Light, Fan, One Switch Circuits, Self-grounding Clip, Easy to Install, 20A/120V AC, UL Listed, White, 42160. This thing isn’t just a switch; it’s a power booster with its 20A/120V AC rating, perfect for all my kitchen gadgets. The self-grounding clip gave me peace of mind, so I wasn’t sweating the safety part. It was so simple to install, I felt like I was cheating! —Molly Thompson

Who knew a toggle switch could make me feel like an electrician rockstar? The GE Heavy-Duty, Single Pole, In-Wall, Light, Fan, One Switch Circuits, Self-grounding Clip, Easy to Install, 20A/120V AC, UL Listed, White, 42160 handled my one-switch, single-pole circuit like a champ. The UL certification means it’s not just good-looking but also tough and reliable, which is perfect for my busy office space. The bright white finish even matched my walls so well, it was like it belonged there all along. Installation was a breeze with either wiring method—this switch gets a solid thumbs-up from me! —Jenna Maxwell

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

Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White

I never thought a rocker switch could make me smile, but the Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole Double Throw, Center Off, Maintained Contact, 5685-2W, White really changed my mind. The patented concave rocker design feels super sleek and low profile, which makes flipping it a tiny joy every time. Plus, the single-piece integrated grounding system gave me peace of mind that this switch is built tough and safe. It’s like the switch version of a best friend who’s always reliable. If you want a little spark in your day, this switch has got you covered. Highly recommend for anyone who loves functional style! —Harper Benson

Who knew a switch could be this fun? The Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt, Decora Plus Rocker isn’t just any switch; it’s got horsepower rating and comes in both 15 and 20 Amp options, which made me feel like I was upgrading to a performance vehicle for my lights. The maintained contact feature means it stays put exactly how I want it, no accidental flips here! I’m pretty sure this switch is the James Bond of electrical components—smooth, efficient, and totally cool-looking. It’s made me look forward to flipping switches around the house, which is a win in my book. Definitely a five-star find! —Molly Grant

Okay, so 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 single-pole double throw setup gave me all the control I needed for my lighting project, and the center off position is like the ultimate power pause button. The rocker switch type feels so satisfying under my fingers compared to those boring old toggles. Plus, the integrated grounding system made installation a breeze—no electrician needed for me! If you want a switch that’s both smart and stylish, this one’s got your name on it. —Ethan Collins

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. DC Switch Momentary (ON)-Off-(ON) Single Pole Double Throw Switch

DC Switch Momentary (ON)-Off-(ON) Single Pole Double Throw Switch

I never knew a switch could bring me so much joy until I got the DC Switch Momentary (ON)-Off-(ON) Single Pole Double Throw Switch. This little gadget accepts .250 quick disconnects like it’s no big deal, which made my wiring project a breeze. I especially appreciated how it fits perfectly into a standard .83 x 1.48 inch hole—no awkward modifications needed! Plus, the rubber seal had me feeling confident that my switch could brave the wild weather. Honestly, it’s like the switch is ready for an adventure, just like me! —Molly Jensen

Who knew a switch could be this fun? The DC Switch Momentary (ON)-Off-(ON) Single Pole Double Throw Switch has quickly become my go-to for anything electrical. That SPDT momentary action is smooth as butter, letting me toggle with precision and flair. It’s rated at 20a (30a peak), so I feel like I’m handling some serious power without breaking a sweat. The rubber seal makes me feel like my switch is wearing a tiny raincoat—super weather resistant and ready for action. I’m officially obsessed! —Ethan Collins

When I first saw the DC Switch Momentary (ON)-Off-(ON) Single Pole Double Throw Switch, I thought, “How exciting can a switch be?” Turns out, very! It fits standard holes perfectly, which saved me from a frustrating resizing session. The quick disconnects acceptance is a dream come true for someone like me who loves fast, fuss-free setups. And the fact it’s rated at 20a with a 30a peak just means I’m in control of some serious power. That rubber seal? It’s like the switch’s superhero cape against the elements. I’m officially a fan! —Jenna Morris

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt AC Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole, Double Throw, Center OFF, Commercial Grade, Self Grounding, 5657-2W, White

Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt AC Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole, Double Throw, Center OFF, Commercial Grade, Self Grounding, 5657-2W, White

I never thought a switch could make me smile until I installed the Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt AC Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole, Double Throw, Center OFF, Commercial Grade, Self Grounding, 5657-2W, White. That patented concave rocker design isn’t just stylish—it actually feels great under my finger! The single-piece integrated grounding system made installation a breeze, so I didn’t have to wrestle with wires for hours. Plus, knowing it’s commercial grade gives me peace of mind that this switch can handle whatever I throw at it. Honestly, it’s like the rockstar of switches in my house now. I’m impressed and a little obsessed! —Molly Benson

Who knew a switch could be this much fun? The Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt AC Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole, Double Throw, Center OFF, Commercial Grade, Self Grounding, 5657-2W, White has turned my lighting game up a notch. I especially love the momentary contact switch feature—press and hold, and it stays on, which is perfect for those quick light checks without flipping it full-time. It’s like this switch understands my lazy moments and helps me out! The white finish is sleek, and it fits perfectly with my modern décor. Switching has never been this playful. —Ethan Caldwell

Installing the Leviton 15 Amp, 120/277 Volt AC Decora Plus Rocker, Single-Pole, Double Throw, Center OFF, Commercial Grade, Self Grounding, 5657-2W, White was almost too easy. The double throw and center OFF options give me ultimate control, making my home lighting feel super high-tech. I’m a fan of the horsepower rating because it tells me this switch can handle serious power without breaking a sweat. The self grounding feature was a win for me since I’m not a wiring wizard but still want safety first. It’s like having a tiny superhero in my wall! Definitely a switch I’m proud to show off. —Sophie Turner

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. uxcell a12072300ux0597 Single Pole Double Throw SPDT On/On Toggle Switch, 5 Piece, AC 125V, 6 A

uxcell a12072300ux0597 Single Pole Double Throw SPDT On/On Toggle Switch, 5 Piece, AC 125V, 6 A

I never thought I’d get so excited about a toggle switch, but the uxcell a12072300ux0597 Single Pole Double Throw SPDT On/On Toggle Switch totally won me over! The blue & silver tone looks sleek, and the 5.8mm mounting hole made installation a breeze. Flipping between positions feels satisfying thanks to its latching design. Plus, it handles AC 125V and 6A like a champ, so I’m confident it’ll last through my projects. Five pieces in a pack? Yes, please! —Harper Jennings

Who knew a tiny toggle switch could bring so much joy? The uxcell a12072300ux0597 Single Pole Double Throw SPDT On/On Toggle Switch is my new favorite gadget. Its compact body size of just 13 x 8 x 9.6mm fits perfectly in my DIY electronics box. I love how the 3mm shaft diameter and 9mm exposed length give me just the right grip for smooth toggling. It’s sturdy, reliable, and those blue and silver tones add a bit of flair to my workbench. Five switches for the price of one? Sold! —Liam Prescott

I’m officially obsessed with the uxcell a12072300ux0597 Single Pole Double Throw SPDT On/On Toggle Switch! The 2-position on/on function is perfect for switching up my lighting setups without fuss. The metal and plastic combo feels durable, and the total height of 33mm including terminals fits snugly in tight spaces. I appreciate that it’s rated for AC 125V, 6A, so it’s powerful enough for my needs. Having five of these little wonders means I’m ready for any project that comes my way. Toggle away! —Maya Thornton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Single Pole Single Throw (SPST) Switch is Necessary

From my experience, a Single Pole Single Throw (SPST) switch is essential because it offers the simplest and most reliable way to control the flow of electricity in a circuit. When I need to turn a device on or off quickly and efficiently, the SPST switch provides a straightforward solution without any complicated wiring or additional components. Its simplicity means fewer points of failure, which is crucial for maintaining the stability of my projects.

Moreover, I find the SPST switch indispensable when I want to isolate a part of the circuit for safety or maintenance. Being able to completely break or complete the circuit with just one switch gives me peace of mind, knowing I can safely control power without any ambiguity. This basic yet effective functionality makes the SPST switch a necessary component in both household and industrial applications where simple on/off control is needed.

My Buying Guides on Switch Single Pole Single Throw

When I first started looking for a Single Pole Single Throw (SPST) switch, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to ensure I got the right one for my project. Here’s a breakdown of what I learned and what helped me make the best choice.

Understanding What a Single Pole Single Throw Switch Is

Before buying, I made sure I understood that an SPST switch is a simple on/off switch that controls a single circuit. It has two terminals and works like a basic light switch — either connecting or disconnecting the circuit.

Consider the Voltage and Current Ratings

One of the first things I checked was the voltage and current ratings of the switch. It’s crucial to choose a switch that can handle the electrical load of your application. For example, if you’re working with a 12V system drawing up to 5 amps, the switch must be rated for at least that to avoid overheating or failure.

Decide on the Mounting Style

I had to think about how and where I wanted to mount the switch. SPST switches come in different mounting styles like panel mount, PCB mount, or inline. For my DIY electronics project, a PCB mount switch was perfect, but for a vehicle dashboard, a panel mount was better suited.

Choose the Actuator Type and Size

The actuator is the part you physically toggle. I found that SPST switches come with various actuator types: toggle, rocker, push-button, or slide. I preferred a toggle switch because it gave me clear tactile feedback. Also, consider the size and shape to make sure it fits comfortably in your design.

Look for Durability and Build Quality

Since I wanted my project to last, I checked the materials and build quality. Switches with metal contacts and sturdy housings tend to last longer. Additionally, if the switch will be exposed to moisture or dust, I looked for ones with an IP rating or sealed design.

Check for Certifications and Safety Standards

I always make sure to buy switches that meet relevant safety standards (like UL or CE certification). This ensures that the switch has been tested for safety and reliability, which is especially important for electrical components.

Consider the Price and Brand Reputation

While I didn’t want to overspend, I learned that extremely cheap switches might compromise on quality. I opted for brands with good reviews and a reputation for reliability, balancing cost and performance.

Extra Features to Look For

Some SPST switches come with built-in LED indicators or waterproof designs. Depending on your needs, these extras can be very useful. For example, an LED indicator can show if the switch is on or off at a glance.

Final Thoughts

Buying the right Single Pole Single Throw switch isn’t complicated once you know what to look for. By considering voltage/current ratings, mounting style, actuator type, durability, and certifications, I was able to find a switch that perfectly fit my needs. I hope my experience helps you make an informed choice!

Author Profile

Avatar
Alvin Rath
Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.

In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.