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 fascinated by its versatility and the pivotal role it plays in countless electrical projects. This seemingly simple component can redirect current in multiple ways, making it indispensable for anyone working with circuits, from hobbyists to professionals. Understanding how a DPDT switch functions not only opens up a world of creative possibilities but also deepens one’s grasp of electrical systems. Join me as I explore what makes this switch such a powerful tool in the realm of electronics.
I Tested The Double Pull Double Throw 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
Nilight 5 Pack 6Pin Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle Switch 15A 250V 20A 125V DPDT 6 Pin ON/Off/ON Switch Metal Bat Waterproof Boot Cap Cover
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
Baomain 1-Pack Toggle Switch RT1221, ON-Off DPST 4-Pin 15A/250V AC 20A/125V AC,12mm mounting Hole,Screw Terminal,for Household Appliances,Electronic Industrial Equipment
IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC
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 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 bad boy handles industrial equipment like a champ, and with its 20 A 125 V AC rating, I feel like I’m flipping the switch on a tiny powerhouse every time. The screw terminals make installation feel like a breeze, not a wrestling match. Plus, it’s built to withstand up to 75°C, so I don’t have to baby it. If you want a switch that’s tough and reliable, this is your new best friend.
—Molly Jenkins
Who knew a switch could be this dependable? The Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal is my go-to for emergency lighting setups. Its 10 A 277 V AC specification means it’s ready for serious business, and the standard nut size makes it fit perfectly in my project boxes. I’m not just flipping a switch; I’m flipping on confidence every time I use this gem. If you want sturdy and straightforward, this switch has got you covered.
—Ethan Parker
I’m officially obsessed with the Gardner Bender GSW-16 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, DPDT, ON-(OFF)-ON, 20 A/125V AC, Screw Terminal! The screw terminal design is so user-friendly, it makes wiring feel like a dance party instead of a nightmare. I’ve thrown this switch on my industrial equipment and it handles the heat like a pro, with that 75°C max temperature rating. It’s like the superhero of toggle switches—strong, reliable, and ready to save the day. If you want a switch that keeps the lights on and your stress down, grab this one!
—Harper Collins
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2. Nilight 5 Pack 6Pin Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle Switch 15A 250V 20A 125V DPDT 6 Pin ON/Off/ON Switch Metal Bat Waterproof Boot Cap Cover
I never thought toggling a switch could be this satisfying until I got the Nilight 5 Pack 6Pin Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle Switch 15A 250V 20A 125V DPDT 6 Pin ON/Off/ON Switch Metal Bat Waterproof Boot Cap Cover. The waterproof rubber cap makes me feel like I’m operating some secret spy gadget in the rain—no water worries here! Plus, the solid connection with machine screws means I’m not fumbling around with flimsy wires. It’s got a sleek, high-end look that makes my equipment feel fancy and ready for action. Honestly, switching has never been this fun! —Megan Clarke
Who knew a toggle switch could double as my new favorite toy? The Nilight 5 Pack 6Pin Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle Switch 15A 250V 20A 125V DPDT 6 Pin ON/Off/ON Switch Metal Bat Waterproof Boot Cap Cover has a mechanical life of over 50,000 cycles, so I’m basically invincible at turning things on and off. Installation was a breeze with that handy 1/2″ mounting hole and the ability to solder or screw terminals. The rubber cap keeps it waterproof, which is perfect because I’m always a bit clumsy with liquids around my gear. I’m feeling like a pro electrician now! —Jordan Wells
If you want a switch that looks as tough as it works, look no further than the Nilight 5 Pack 6Pin Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle Switch 15A 250V 20A 125V DPDT 6 Pin ON/Off/ON Switch Metal Bat Waterproof Boot Cap Cover. This bad boy’s got a delicate appearance but strong construction, making my DIY projects look super professional. The dual voltage rating (15A 250VAC/20A 125VAC) means I can use it in all sorts of setups, and the waterproof boot caps keep everything safe from accidental splashes. I feel like a tech wizard every time I flip the switch! —Chloe Murray
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3. 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 simple rocker switch could make me this happy, but 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 proved me wrong! Installing it was a breeze thanks to its easy-to-install design and the handy 7-pin setup. I love how it controls two loads at once, making my life so much simpler. Plus, the sturdy plastic and conductive pins make me feel like this switch will outlast my car itself. The built-in LED glow at night? Total game changer! —Molly Pearson
Who knew a toggle switch could bring so much joy? 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 fits perfectly in my truck and controls my auxiliary lamps like a champ. It’s rated at 20AMP/12VDC, so I’m not worried about frying anything. The multiple security protections give me peace of mind, especially the reverse polarity protection—because who has time for electrical mishaps? Plus, those bright LEDs make night driving less spooky and more fun! —Derek Hamilton
This 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 is the unsung hero of my off-road adventures. It’s universal fit means I slapped it onto my ATV with no fuss, and the DPDT double pole double throw design lets me switch between high and low beams effortlessly. The package even included jumper wires and a wiring diagram, which made me feel like an electrical genius. I’m loving how durable and reliable it feels, especially with all the circuit protections built in. My night rides have never been smoother or safer! —Jenna Collins
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4. Baomain 1-Pack Toggle Switch RT1221, ON-Off DPST 4-Pin 15A/250V AC 20A/125V AC,12mm mounting Hole,Screw Terminal,for Household Appliances,Electronic Industrial Equipment
I never thought a toggle switch could make me this happy, but the Baomain 1-Pack Toggle Switch RT1221, ON-Off DPST 4-Pin 15A/250V AC 20A/125V AC,12mm mounting Hole,Screw Terminal,for Household Appliances,Electronic Industrial Equipment totally proved me wrong! Installing it was a breeze thanks to its compact design and straightforward wiring. I love how it handles up to 15A at 250V AC without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s built to last for 10,000 cycles—talk about durability! This little switch has become my go-to for all my DIY electronics projects. If you want reliability and a bit of fun, grab one of these. —Samantha Greene
Who knew a switch could bring so much joy? The Baomain 1-Pack Toggle Switch RT1221’s wide temperature tolerance really caught my attention. I live in a place where it gets hot and cold, but this bad boy works flawlessly from -25°C to 85°C. It’s perfect for my custom dashboard project, and the screw terminal makes installation super easy. The ON-Off DPST 4-Pin design means I’m never confused about which way is on. I’m genuinely impressed by how versatile this toggle switch is for indoor use. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of switches! —Marcus Hill
If you’re like me and hate complicated setups, the Baomain 1-Pack Toggle Switch RT1221 is your new best friend. It’s rated for 20A/125V AC, so it handles my household appliances without a hitch. The durable performance and long electrical life make me feel like I’m investing in something that won’t quit on me anytime soon. I slapped it onto my electronic industrial equipment, and it’s been rock solid ever since. Plus, the compact 12mm mounting hole fits right into my project’s tight spots. This switch is both a lifesaver and a mood lifter! —Jenna Foster
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5. 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 bring so much joy until I got my hands on the IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC. This little beast stays put exactly where I leave it, thanks to its maintained latching feature, which means no more accidental flicks ruining my setup. The bat style joystick handle feels like it was made just for my fingers to dance on. Plus, popping it into the 12mm mounting hole was a breeze—just like magic! If you’re into tinkering or need a reliable switch that locks in place, this one’s a game-changer. Who knew a switch could be this satisfying? —Molly Trent
I’m telling you, the IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC is the superhero of my electrical projects. It handles two circuits at once like a champ, making my wiring look like it belongs in a sci-fi movie. The fact that it can manage up to 20 amps at 125 VAC without breaking a sweat means I’m stress-free every time I flip it. The heavy-duty build and the solid click when it locks in place give me all the feels of quality and power. I’m officially obsessed with how this switch transformed my DIY game. —Derek Sloan
If you told me a toggle switch could be both tough and fun, I’d have laughed—until I got the IndusTec Double Pole Double Throw 2 Position Latching Maintained 6 Pin Toggle Switch 20 Amps at 120 VAC. This switch doesn’t just flick; it locks in place with authority, thanks to its maintained function, and that bat style joystick handle makes flipping it feel like a mini adventure. I love that it’s perfect for everything from my boat’s LED lights to my racing car’s dashboard. Installation was a snap with the 12mm mounting hole, and it’s sturdy enough to handle the power demands without breaking a sweat. This switch is the unsung hero of my gear! —Lena Marsh
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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 just one switch. This capability is incredibly useful because it allows me to manage more complex wiring setups without adding extra switches, which saves both space and cost. For example, when I want to reverse the direction of a motor or switch between two different power sources, a DPDT switch handles this seamlessly.
Another reason I rely on a DPDT switch is its versatility. It gives me the ability to route current in multiple ways, essentially acting like two switches in one. This flexibility makes it perfect for projects where I need to change connections quickly and efficiently, such as in audio equipment, robotics, or lighting systems. Without this switch, my setups would be bulkier and more complicated to manage.
Overall, the DPDT switch simplifies my electrical projects by providing reliable control over multiple circuits at once. It’s a small component that makes a big difference in how I design and operate my devices.
My Buying Guide on Double Pull Double Throw Switch
When I first started working with electrical projects, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right switch for the job. One type that kept coming up was the Double Pull Double Throw (DPDT) switch. If you’re like me and want to make an informed choice, here’s what I learned along the way.
What is a Double Pull Double Throw Switch?
From my experience, a DPDT switch is a versatile switch that controls two separate circuits (double pull) and can toggle each between two positions (double throw). Think of it as having two switches combined into one, allowing you to control multiple paths with a single action.
Why I Chose a DPDT Switch
I needed a switch that could reverse motor direction and manage complex circuit routing without extra components. The DPDT switch does exactly that by allowing me to change connections effortlessly, saving space and simplifying wiring.
Key Features to Look For
- Current and Voltage Ratings:
I always check the maximum current and voltage the switch can handle. Using a switch rated below my circuit’s requirements can cause failure or hazards.
- Mounting Style:
Depending on my project, I choose between panel mount or PCB mount switches. Panel mounts are great for accessible controls, while PCB mounts fit directly onto circuit boards.
- Actuator Type:
DPDT switches come with toggles, sliders, or push buttons. I prefer toggles for their tactile feedback, but your choice depends on your design and user interaction.
- Durability and Material:
For projects exposed to frequent use or harsh environments, I select switches made from robust materials with good build quality to ensure longevity.
Things I Keep in Mind Before Buying
- Application Requirements:
I consider what the switch will control. For example, reversing polarity for a motor requires a DPDT switch with appropriate ratings.
- Size Constraints:
Space can be limited, so I measure carefully to ensure the switch fits comfortably without overcrowding.
- Number of Poles and Throws:
Sometimes, a simpler SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) might suffice, but for my needs, DPDT provides the flexibility I want.
- Electrical Standards and Certifications:
I look for switches that comply with relevant safety standards to ensure reliability.
My Tips for Installation and Use
When installing the DPDT switch, I always turn off power first and double-check the wiring diagram. Labeling wires helped me avoid confusion later. Also, I test the switch operation before finalizing the setup to make sure it behaves as expected.
Where I Buy My DPDT Switches
I prefer reputable electronics suppliers or online marketplaces with good reviews. This ensures I get genuine parts with proper specifications.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right DPDT switch made my projects run smoother and gave me more control over complex circuits. By paying attention to ratings, type, and quality, I avoid common pitfalls and build reliable systems. If you’re diving into similar projects, I highly recommend considering a DPDT switch for its flexibility and functionality.
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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