Selector switches give control to the user by signaling machines how to operate. They are indicators that let the user know whether the machine is working or not.
Usually, they have a selector switch on the forefront and a varying range of contact combinations inside.
What makes them different from your usual pushbutton switches is their ability to actuate the plungers separately via a rotating cam that has ridges and flats, which means that when the switch is positioned at the center, that is its starting position, moving the switch left or right presses the respective plunger.
You can find a variety of best selector switches with 2, 3, and 4 positions, which are commonly used as control options to either make, break or change the circuit’s connections.
Whether it’s electronic devices such as an air fryer or a washing machine, selector switches are an integral part of the household and industrial usage, especially when maintained contact is needed.
It’s an easy substitute used in circuit control, motor control signal transfer, and change over control switches needed for machinery.
Top 10 Selector Switches Reviews
After you go through the buyer’s guide, the next step is to gain market insight.
The following list of reviews will serve as a medium for you to gain awareness of some of the most popular options available in the market and warn you of any problems you might want to avoid.
1. APIELE Changeover Selector Switch
This selector switch brings both quality and functionality in a single package.
The design seems simple enough, so one doesn’t expect it to have premium copper and silver alloy parts, which can a great surprise.
The knob is made of polycarbonate, so you can expect it to be relatively durable. You can use it as a power switch or for controlling the speed of your device even.
Despite its standard appearance, you can even use it on an industrial level due to its non-flammable properties, so even if it starts heating up, it won’t melt.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Good quality
- Fireproof
- Easy to use
Cons
- Requires a gasket for installation
- waterproof
2. Baomain Universal Rotary Changeover Switch
If you’re looking for a selector switch for a motor startup, reversing, or even speed control, this switch is right up your alley as it has three positions.
It is a simple maintained switch, meaning that it will stay in the position until it is changed. The overall construction isn’t flashy at all.
Instead, it’s just made in plastic. Therefore, one can conclude that it won’t long as long as switches with metal construction.
Please pay special attention to its installation as some users thought it was complicated.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Simple construction
- Compact
- Versatile
Cons
- Tricky installation
- It lacks an electrical box
3. TWTADE Selector Switch
TWTADE rotary latching selector switch is a godsend for those who want easy installation.
The design is decorative and stylish, whereas the function is simple and doesn’t require a lot of unnecessary jargon.
Rotate the knob to turn on your electric device; it will remain in this position unless you rotate it back, so the knob returns to its original position.
The construction is a mixture of plastic and metal, so you get a lightweight, compact design that is durable.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Multipurpose
- Easy installation
- Stylish Design
Cons
- Malfunctions in case of overly tight fixtures
- Plastic Knob
4. Peissy Changeover Switch
Selector switches are often chosen over other options due to their ease of use and convenience, which is exactly what this option offers.
It’s compact and takes minimal space yet can be used with ease. The three-position switch can be used to operate machinery or electronic devices and offers on/off/on controls.
The installation has been made significantly easy by providing screws and a square plate however it’s tricky to wire if you are new to the game because of poor manual instructions.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Easy to install
- Saves space
- Convenient to use
Cons
- Complicated manual instructions
- Confusing voltage and amperage specifications
5. Baomain Cam Changeover Switch
Regulating the speed of your electronics will be a breeze thanks to this selector switch, as it offers up to five different settings.
The latching action type mechanism calls for convenient installation so you can get it right even on the first go. It has a sturdy design even though it’s constructed in plastic.
The only flaw for this switch is that the front plate starts rotating when one attempts to tighten the switch while mounting.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Easy to use
- Simple installation
- Five positions
Cons
- Instructions are not in English.
- Difficult to fasten indicator plate
6. Electrical Buddy Universal Switch
You will be able to locate this switch from afar thanks to its brightly colored design.
Upon operation, it offers a simple on and off function so you can use it to switch your device/circuit on or off with the help of the knob.
The construction isn’t exactly up to the level of other high-quality options that are far more durable; however, it can be recommended for home use and is relatively easy to install.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Easy to install
- Comfortable to use
- Brightly colored
Cons
- No snap indication
- Not sturdy
7. Heschen Universal Changeover Switch
Uncomplicate your life with the help of this simple switch that you can use to alter the functions of your devices in 3 different ways.
The overall design is very conventional yet basic enough to be understood even by rookies. It is compact in size yet not so small that it is difficult to mount and wire.
The quality of the switch in terms of construction could be improved, however, as it’s made of plastic and the switch tends to split if you tighten it too much.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Easy to use
- Simple to install
- Snug fit
Cons
- No instructions
- Not durable
8. VictorsHome Changeover Switch
This switch may not look like it’s easy on the eyes in terms of the design, but you can save your hard-earned money and time because of this switch.
The installation process is a bit complicated as you will have to figure out the wiring mechanism s yourself, and Chinese instructions don’t help either.
All in all, it does the job it requires once you’ve gotten past this step and can be mounted easily even if you don’t have space.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Simple design
- Easy function
- Multi-purpose
Cons
- Not easy to wire
- Chinese instructions
9. Baomain Universal Changeover Switch
If you are looking for a commercial-grade switch that you can install in your workshop or factory, this switch is ideal, thanks to its durable yet compact design.
It is sturdy and does not feel flimsy at all. The elongated handle to the knob is a nice touch making for easy operation;
However, because of the small size, wiring can get frustrating as the space is not sufficient to house all the fixtures.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Durable
- Simple yet stylish design
- Comfortable to use
Cons
- Small box
- No instructions
10. Taiss Universal Changeover Switch
Even though I have reviewed several selector switches that are similar in design, this particular switch is unparalleled in terms of quality and durability.
You don’t have to worry if this switch is placed in hot and humid conditions because it is heat resistant and doesn’t trust either.
The copper and silver alloy metal parts offer good conductivity and make it both high in quality yet light in weight.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Heat resistant
- No rusting
- Premium quality
Cons
- Complex to install
- Not compact
Buyer’s Guide
You can’t find the right switch for your needs unless you have some prior knowledge about its functions.
However, not everybody has the experience or skills; hence this buyer’s guide aims to provide background knowledge along with some foolproof methods to help you find the best selector switch according to your needs.
Each point mentioned will bring you a step closer to your ideal selector switch.
Contact Blocks
To find a selector switch that fulfills its intended purpose, it can be considered adequate.
Following this logic, one must know the kind of functions the selector switch can perform. Therefore you should always look at the configurations of the switch.
Understand that contact blocks have generally open or normally closed and sometimes even both setups.
As a single selector switch circuit offers only one of these configurations, it is deemed the best for applications that need only one contact.
Dual circuits, on the other hand, can offer various combinations such as normally open or closed contact, two normally open, or two normally closed contacts; hence they are ideal when you’re looking to control two circuits with the help of one making them multifunctional.
Momentary or Maintained Configuration
Since the application has been previously discussed, you should also consider whether you need a momentary or maintained setup. Selector switches come in either maintained positions or spring right/left return.
Maintained switches are useful where you select a position and want it to remain until changed.
To put it simply, these switches come in handy when you need to switch on or off a device only and require manual control.
Whereas the spring left or right return selector switch will go back to an original position unless the switch is held in place.
Installation
Correct installation is the only thing standing between a well-functioning switch and you.
A single mistake in this process can prove to be a nuisance that can potentially damage your machinery, tools, or even circuit.
This is precisely the reason why you should pay attention to how the selector switch of your choice needs to be installed. My tip on this matter is to always look for selector switch options that are easy to install.
Look for selector switches that have a pivot design mounting latch as they are far easier to place.
Always check whether there are any specific tools or skills required for installation because you don’t want to end up with an option that you can’t wire or install.
This will also help you determine whether you need to seek professional help or you can put it together yourself.
Environmental Ratings
Your and the safety of those around you should be of the utmost importance; therefore, always check the environmental ratings of every selector switch you might consider.
Read all the instructions and specifications mentioned by the manufacturer because you don’t want to invest money in a selector switch that isn’t compatible with your house or isn’t up to the standards prescribed by the authorities.
Disregarding such factors can prove to be unsafe practices that can lead to unforeseen disasters such as short circuit fires etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a selector switch used for?
It can be used to control the electric supply by making, breaking, or switching the circuit of a particular electronic device via rotation of the handle.
How do you test a selector switch?
Carefully unplug the device if the switch is attached to it and remove the wires connecting it to the device.
Depending on the number of terminals, proceed by bringing the terminals in contact with the probes of the ohmmeter sequentially.
If the ohmmeters readings change from infinity to zero, your switch is working.
What is a selector switch in electrical?
It is a switch that has a rotating knob that can actuate the plungers individually to make or break a connection.
What is the difference between a selector switch and a push-button switch?
What makes a selector switch different from pushbutton switches is its ability to actuate the plungers separately via a rotating cam, which has ridges and flats,
This means that when the switch is positioned at the center that is its starting position, moving the switch left or right presses the respective plunger.
What is an auto-manual selector switch?
It is a single-pole, double-throw switch with an off position present in the center.
How does a selector switch work?
You can use a selector switch with the help of a rotary knob that has ridges and flats; when the switch is positioned at the center that is its starting position,
Moving the switch left or right presses the respective plunger, allowing the switch to either make or break the electric supply.
Conclusion
I hope this comprehensive guide assisted you in finding what you were looking for.
In case you’re still unsure, the list of reviews will help you clarify any uncertainties left still so you can always give it another read.
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