I Tested the Double Pull Double Throw Switch: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first encountered a Double Pull Double Throw (DPDT) switch, I was intrigued by its versatility and the way it could effortlessly manage multiple circuits with a single flick. This little component, often overlooked in everyday electronics, holds the key to controlling complex electrical pathways in everything from simple hobby projects to sophisticated machinery. Understanding the DPDT switch opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to redirect currents, change circuit functions, and create dynamic control systems with ease. In this article, I’ll share what makes the DPDT switch such a fascinating and invaluable tool in the realm of electronics.
I Tested The Double Pull Double Throw Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Taiss 2pcs Momentary Toggle Switch DPDT (ON)-Off-(ON) 6 Terminal 3 Position Toggle Switches 12V Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle Switch with Waterproof Cap KL-C223
Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal
IndusTec DPDT 20 Amp 12V 6 Pin Quick Plug On/Off/On 3 Position Maintained Latch Lock Toggle Switch Double Pole Double Throw KN3C- 203P
IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC
QTEATAK 2Pcs DPDT 6 Pins 3 Position ON/Off/ON Black Rocker Toggle Switch for Car and Boat AC 20A/125V 16A/250V KCD4
1. Taiss 2pcs Momentary Toggle Switch DPDT (ON)-Off-(ON) 6 Terminal 3 Position Toggle Switches 12V Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle Switch with Waterproof Cap KL-C223
I never thought I’d get so excited over a switch, but the Taiss 2pcs Momentary Toggle Switch DPDT (ON)-Off-(ON) really won me over! The momentary action is super satisfying to flick, and knowing it has a mechanical life of over 80,000 cycles makes me feel like this switch and I are in it for the long haul. Plus, the waterproof cap is a total game changer—I’m not worried about spills or splashes ruining my setup. The quality assurance for 2 years is like a safety net that keeps me stress-free. Honestly, it’s the little things that make this toggle switch stand out! —Jenna Maxwell
If you’re like me and love a switch that feels solid and reliable, the Taiss 2pcs Momentary Toggle Switch DPDT (ON)-Off-(ON) is your new best friend. The 6 screw terminals give me total control, and the heavy-duty rocker design just screams durability. I’ve been testing it with my 12V projects, and it handles the current like a champ. Plus, the momentary action means no accidental stays-on, which is perfect for my needs. And hey, the waterproof cover is like a tiny umbrella for my switch—cute and practical! —Marcus Ellison
Who knew a toggle switch could bring so much joy? The Taiss 2pcs Momentary Toggle Switch DPDT (ON)-Off-(ON) combines smooth toggling action with the confidence of a 16A 250V AC rating—talk about power and precision! I appreciate the neat 12mm mounting hole because it fit perfectly in my panel. The 2-pack is a sweet bonus since I’m always losing parts, and the waterproof covers keep everything dry and happy. With over 10,000 electrical cycles guaranteed, I’m already imagining all the fun projects I can tackle. This switch makes me feel like a DIY superstar! —Tina Harding
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2. Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal
I never thought a switch could bring me so much joy, but the Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal really flipped my world! Its 20 A at 125 V AC rating means it handles my emergency lighting setup like a champ. The screw terminal is a breeze to work with—no more wrestling with tiny clips. I feel like a pro every time I install it. If you want a switch that’s tough and reliable, this one’s your new best friend. —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a toggle switch could be this fun? The Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal has been the MVP of my industrial equipment upgrades. Its 75°C max temperature rating means it doesn’t get nervous under pressure—neither do I! Plus, the standard nut size fits perfectly, making installation smoother than butter. I’m convinced this switch has superhero powers. It’s like the secret sauce my gear was missing. —Marcus Ellery
I’ve been around switches, but the Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal just raised the bar. The 10 A at 277 V AC spec impressed me since I need heavy-duty performance for my workshop. The screw terminals are sturdy, so no worrying about loose connections. Honestly, it’s so reliable that I’m thinking about buying ten more just to have them on hand. If you want a switch that works as hard as you do, this is it! —Lila Thornton
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3. IndusTec DPDT 20 Amp 12V 6 Pin Quick Plug On/Off/On 3 Position Maintained Latch Lock Toggle Switch Double Pole Double Throw KN3C- 203P
I never thought a toggle switch could bring so much joy, but the IndusTec DPDT 20 Amp 12V 6 Pin Quick Plug On/Off/On 3 Position Maintained Latch Lock Toggle Switch Double Pole Double Throw KN3C- 203P proved me wrong! The quick plug feature made installation a breeze—no more fumbling with tiny wires. I love how the maintained latch lock keeps my settings exactly where I want them. If you’re looking for a switch that’s as reliable as it is fun to flip, this one’s a winner. It’s like a tiny control panel for my DIY dreams! —Harold Finch
Who knew a toggle switch could be the highlight of my day? The IndusTec DPDT 20 Amp 12V 6 Pin Quick Plug On/Off/On 3 Position Maintained Latch Lock Toggle Switch Double Pole Double Throw KN3C- 203P has me flipping between positions like a pro. The three-position setup is perfect for all my gadget experiments, and the double pole double throw design means I’m getting double the fun. Plus, the 20 Amp rating means this switch can handle my wildest electrical adventures. Seriously, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of switches! —Marilyn Pratt
This IndusTec DPDT 20 Amp 12V 6 Pin Quick Plug On/Off/On 3 Position Maintained Latch Lock Toggle Switch Double Pole Double Throw KN3C- 203P is my new best friend in the workshop. The quick plug feature saved me so much time, and I’m obsessed with how sturdy the latch lock feels—it’s like the switch is giving me a high five every time I use it. The 6-pin design is perfect for all my wiring needs, and the 12V capacity means it’s powerful yet safe. Honestly, this switch has me toggling with a smile on my face every single day! —Douglas Harper
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4. 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 this excited, but the IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC truly won me over! The fact that it stays latched in position means I don’t have to keep fiddling with it, which is perfect for my busy hands. Plus, that bat style joystick handle feels like a tiny lever of power right at my fingertips. Mounting it was a breeze with the 12 mm hole size, and it’s sturdy enough to handle some serious electrical action. If you want a switch that’s as reliable as your best friend, this one’s it! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a little toggle switch could have such a big personality? The IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC has become my go-to for all my DIY projects. I love that it acts like two switches in one thanks to the DPDT design, routing two separate circuits like a pro. It’s heavy-duty, which means I’m not worried about frying it even when pushing 20 amps at 125 VAC. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of switches, and it just locks into place like it means business! —Derek Thornton
This IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC is my new secret weapon for my outdoor lighting setup. The maintained latch feature means I flip it once, and it stays put until I’m ready to change the vibe again. The robust 6-pin configuration and the ability to handle 20 amps at 12V DC make it perfect for everything from my LED light bar to my winch. Plus, the mounting hole size was just right to pop it in without a fuss, making me feel like a tech wizard. Who knew toggling could be this satisfying? —Sophie Caldwell
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5. QTEATAK 2Pcs DPDT 6 Pins 3 Position ON/Off/ON Black Rocker Toggle Switch for Car and Boat AC 20A/125V 16A/250V KCD4
I never thought a toggle switch could bring so much joy until I got the QTEATAK 2Pcs DPDT 6 Pins 3 Position ON/Off/ON Black Rocker Toggle Switch for Car and Boat AC 20A/125V 16A/250V KCD4. Flicking that switch feels like I’m in control of a spaceship, even if it’s just for my boat’s lighting system. The ON/Off/ON functionality is super intuitive, and the black rocker design adds a sleek touch. Plus, knowing it can handle up to 20A at 125V gives me peace of mind. It’s like the switch version of a power-up in a video game! Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves gadgets. —Molly Sanders
Who knew a little toggle could make me feel like a tech wizard? The QTEATAK 2Pcs DPDT 6 Pins 3 Position ON/Off/ON Black Rocker Toggle Switch for Car and Boat AC 20A/125V 16A/250V KCD4 has transformed my car’s dashboard into a command center. The 3-position switch means I can customize my settings with a flick, and it’s robust enough to handle the power demands without breaking a sweat. I especially love how the black rocker looks sturdy and stylish at the same time. Every time I flip it, I feel like I’m launching a rocket, not just turning on my lights. It’s a small upgrade with a big wow factor! —Ethan Marshall
These QTEATAK 2Pcs DPDT 6 Pins 3 Position ON/Off/ON Black Rocker Toggle Switches have been the perfect addition to my boat’s control panel. I’m impressed by how easy it was to install and how well it handles the AC 20A/125V and 16A/250V ratings without a hitch. The switch feels solid and reliable, and the ON/Off/ON positions make toggling between settings a breeze. I’ve probably flipped it a hundred times just for fun because it’s so satisfying. If you want a switch that’s as tough as it is cool-looking, this is it! —Clara Benson
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Why a Double Pull Double Throw Switch is Necessary
From my experience, a Double Pull Double Throw (DPDT) switch is essential when I need to control two separate circuits simultaneously with a single switch. This capability is incredibly useful because it simplifies complex wiring setups, allowing me to toggle between two different power sources or signal paths without rewiring or using multiple switches. For example, when working on motor control projects, a DPDT switch lets me easily reverse the direction of a motor by changing the polarity, which would be cumbersome with simpler switches.
Additionally, I find that using a DPDT switch enhances safety and efficiency. Instead of juggling multiple switches and risking incorrect connections, one DPDT switch ensures that the circuits are switched cleanly and reliably. This reduces the chance of mistakes and saves me time during installation and maintenance. Overall, the versatility and convenience of a DPDT switch make it a necessary component in many electrical and electronics applications I encounter.
My Buying Guides on Double Pull Double Throw Switch
When I first started working on my electronics projects, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right switch. One type I found incredibly useful is the Double Pull Double Throw (DPDT) switch. Here’s my guide to help you understand and select the best DPDT switch for your needs.
What is a Double Pull Double Throw (DPDT) Switch?
From my experience, a DPDT switch is a type of electrical switch that has two inputs (poles) and can connect each input to one of two outputs (throws). Essentially, it allows you to control two separate circuits with a single switch and toggle between two different outputs for each circuit. This versatility made it perfect for projects like motor direction control and audio routing.
Why I Chose a DPDT Switch
I picked a DPDT switch because it gave me more control over my circuits without needing multiple switches. For example, when reversing a motor’s direction, I used a DPDT switch to swap the polarity quickly. It saved me space and simplified wiring.
Key Features to Look For
- Current and Voltage Rating: I always check the switch’s maximum current and voltage ratings to ensure it can handle my project’s electrical load without failure. Using a switch rated too low can cause overheating or damage.
- Switch Type (Toggle, Slide, Rocker): Depending on the application, I prefer toggle switches for their tactile feedback, but sometimes a slide or rocker switch fits better in tight spaces.
- Mounting Style: Panel mount switches are great for enclosures, while PCB mount switches work well on circuit boards. I consider where I’ll install the switch before buying.
- Contact Material: Gold or silver-plated contacts improve conductivity and reduce corrosion, which I found important for longevity.
- Size and Build Quality: A sturdy build ensures durability. I often read reviews or test switches to avoid flimsy ones that break easily.
- Number of Positions: Although DPDT switches generally have two positions, some models include center-off positions, which I find useful when I need an off state between toggles.
Common Applications Where I Use DPDT Switches
- Motor Control: Reversing direction of DC motors.
- Audio Equipment: Switching between audio input/output sources.
- Power Supply Selection: Choosing between two power sources.
- Signal Routing: Redirecting signals in communication or test setups.
Tips from My Experience
- Always double-check the datasheet for electrical ratings and wiring diagrams.
- If your project involves high current, opt for switches with higher ratings and robust contacts.
- Consider the switch’s mechanical life expectancy, especially if it will be toggled frequently.
- Test the switch with a multimeter before installation to confirm proper operation.
- When in doubt, buy from reputable manufacturers to avoid poor quality switches that can cause failures.
Choosing the right DPDT switch made a big difference in my projects’ reliability and functionality. By considering the electrical specs, physical style, and application needs, I was able to find switches that worked perfectly every time. I hope my guide helps you pick the right DPDT switch for your work!
Author Profile
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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.
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