Imagine your frustration if you had to go all the way upstairs to switch off your lights or having to walk to the end of a long hallway.
This can be a problem, especially if you have children or seniors in your household,
So in moments like these, one often wishes for a solution that could help you switch off the same set of lights from multiple places so that you could avoid the extra hassle.
If you’re among those people, I have great news for you because a 4-way switch is an answer you are looking for.
As mentioned earlier, a 4-way switch is used to switch lights or fixtures from different locations.
They are commonly used in instances where the user may require control from more than two switches.
There are a total of four terminals that provide a pair of toggle positions; depending on the set up when the switch is turned on, the current can flow through two terminals.
Whereas when it is switched to a down position, the current flows through the other two terminals. This can be handy for controlling light fixtures in halls, big rooms, or huge buildings with multiple stories.
Best 4-way switches are a source of convenience and efficiency that everyone should make use of to make their lives easier for themselves and those around them.
9 Best 4 Way Switches Reviews
After reading the buyer’s guide, you have become well versed with the nuances behind finding the best 4-way switches.
The following list of reviews will help you insight into the most popular 4-way switches available in the market.
1. Leviton 5604-2W 15 Amp
Most professionals and DIYer’s rely on Leviton for electrical accessories due to their reliable and good quality products, and this 4-way switch lives up to the manufacturer’s name.
The contemporary design is not flashy at all; it comes with a minimal look. Most users are impressed by how easy this 4-way switch was to install.
It is also versatile; however, it does require a bit of pressure to press it on or off.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Easy to install
- Versatile
- Modern Design
Cons
- Loud click
- Hard to press
2. Eaton 7504W-SP-L 15-Amp
This switch has ultrasonic welding, which makes it far more reliable than its competitors. The paddle of the switch is smooth and quiet.
If you are worried about durability, then you can rest easy with this switch as its rocker is made of thermoplastic.
The design is also modern and looks good in both homes and commercial areas. To make installation easy, the screws are built to be compatible with commonly used head tools.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Minimalistic design
- Durable
- Comfortable to use
Cons
- Difficult to install
- Tight screws
3. Leviton 5604-2E 15 Amp
The beautiful black colored switch is a must-have for all those who love decorative switches that go with any interior look.
This 4-way switch is sturdy in construction and can be used to connect all kinds of light fixtures, whether they are tungsten, fluorescent, or resistive load options.
The frame is designed in a way that protects it from getting dust stuck and offers longevity.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Versatile
- Attractive design
- Good quality
Cons
- No click to signal toggle position is changed.
- Colour not easily available
4. Legrand Radiant 15 Amp
This 4-way switch offers a chance for you to transform the look of your house completely.
Switch your old rusty switches for an easy option on the eyes and offers convenience and easy control.
The thermoplastic construction is long-lasting, so you don’t have to keep on changing your switches.
Some users had an issue with the logo printed on the switch; however, all in all, this is a great switch that offers value for money.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Safe
- Reliable
- Easy to install
Cons
- Stiff Paddle
- The logo is printed on the bottom
5. Lutron CA-4PS-WH Diva 15 A
If you are tired of small-sized switches and get annoyed when the paddle doesn’t even fit your fingers properly, then this design is for you.
The wide paddle design is comfortable to use. With this switch, you will be able to control your light or fan from three different locations without a single problem.
The installation process is said to take up only 15 minutes; imagine the amount of time you could save with its installation.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Easy to use
- Wide paddle size
- Quick installation
Cons
- Confusing instructions
- Difficult to mount
6. Legrand – Pass & Seymour 664WGCC12
This is the holy grail for all those who prefer sideway wiring over back wiring, making installation no problem.
The design itself is functional, and the toggle is decisive and precise. It is not the most attractive option on the table but does a 4-way switch well.
Some users have trouble with the fact that the terminals are not color-coordinated, and the manual lacks any diagrams or labels.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Easy installation
- Reliable
- Safe
Cons
- No labels
- Terminals are all of the same colors
7. Cooper 7504GY 15 Amp
The ultrasonic welding and integrated construction of strap and body make this switch a cohesive unit that will always translate reliable results.
The manufacturers ensure that their customers be it, beginners, DIYer’s or professionals, don’t face any problems during installation.
However, if we consider the user’s experience, some say that it takes a little trial and error to get it right the first time.
The design and construction of this rocker switch support a paddle that is quiet and easy to toggle.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Durable thermoplastic construction
- Attractive Design
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Wiring diagrams do not have simple instructions.
- Learning curve
8. Leviton CS420-2E 20 Amp
So far, the mostly decorator switches have been reviewed, and the degree of durability offered has been limited to 4-way switches constructed in thermoplastics.
Yet, this switch takes the durability game to a whole other level thanks to its heavy-duty steel mounting strap.
All the screws that come with have brass heads and don’t require any special tools to be installed. All these components together make it ideal for commercial use.
Pros
- Durable
- Safe to use
- Good quality
Cons
- Difficult to find in black
- It does not have a decorative design
9. Leviton 5604-2T 15 Amp
This 4-way switch is not only beautifully designed on the outside but also has wide applications.
You can use it for light fixtures, with fans and dimmers, or an oven for heating. The switch frames make sure that there’s no trap dust stuck in those fine corners of your switch as time goes by.
The Leviton 5604-2T 4-way switch can support tungsten, fluorescent, and even resistive load, so it is multipurpose and versatile.
It wires flawlessly, has a sturdy construction, and complements any style.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Multipurpose Application
- Versatile Design
- Reliable
Cons
- Not quiet
- Hard to press
Buyer’s Guide
The ease and comfort that 4-way switches can provide cannot be denied, yet it does take a little bit of electrical wizardry to install and make use of them.
Hence if you’re a novice, this buyer’s guide will help you in becoming well acquainted with any background information necessary as well as pointers, so you know exactly what to look for to find the best 4-way switches.
Application
The most important factor to consider is the application or how you intend on using the 4-way switch.
Once you have figured out the intended use and location, only then will you plan out how the wiring and installation should be done.
Another reason to always consider this factor is because the 4-way switch can give its best performance only according to its current, voltage, and power ratings.
Hence keep the guidelines provided by the manufacturer in mind and see if each 4-way switch is suitable for your application.
Otherwise, you are bound to face problems that may lead to accidents and damage.
Configuration
It is a DPDT switch; if you’re unfamiliar with this term, it means double pole double throw. It has only four external terminals and is internally wired to reverse the connections.
DPDT normally has six terminals making it useful for applications that require coupling or decoupling connection of two conductors to two individual circuits.
The user can regulate the load from three or more locations by interconnecting 4-way switches in line with 3-way switches on both sides.
This means that turning any switch on or off will change the light’s state from on or off.
Installation
4 way switches are not as easy to install as one might think. You must remember that way switches are always connected with two three-way switches in conjunction with a single light fixture.
They can be used in strict instances where you need to control the lights from at least three or more places.
Pacing a four-way switch would be pointless if it is not compatible with your house wiring; hence you should always check on what skills and tools you require.
Read up the instructions before making a buying decision, as it can be frustrating to invest in 4-way switches that are too complicated to install.
You might end up stuck with a dysfunctional circuit if you don’t have the proper expertise.
Design
The design of the switch is often important as it will indicate how comfortable to use the switch is.
Thanks to technology, there are options for smart 4-way switches as well.
So look at how each design can optimize the functionality and performance of the switch as per your convenience.
Take the materials used in the construction of your switch into account as well as it will indicate its longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a 3-way switch as a 4 way?
A 4-way switch is used with 3-way switches to control light fixtures from multiple locations.
How is a 4-way switch wiring?
Since 4-way switches have five terminals where two pairs are circuit terminals and the remaining one is ground.
Both pairs of traveler terminals need to be wired to traveler wires to 3-way switches.
How do you identify a 4-way switch?
You can identify 4-way switches with their five terminals.
How do I know if my 4-way switch is bad?
Check each switch by turning it on and see if the light turns on. If that’s not the case, the switch is bad.
What is the difference between a 3 way and a 4-way switch?
The difference between both types of switches is in the number of terminals, so a three-way terminal has three terminals, whereas a 4-way terminal has a total of 4 terminals.
Can a dimmer be installed on a 4-way switch?
Yes, but you can install a 4-way dimmer into the circuit only.
What Colour is the common terminal on a 4-way switch?
Black
How many are 4-way switches required to control a light from five locations?
A 4-way switch is required to control a light from more than 3 locations.
Can a bad light switch cause a fire?
While it may be unusual but it’s not impossible as the resistors might go bad and cause the circuit to heat up, which may lead to a fire.
Conclusion
Now that you have become well acquainted with all the prerequisites of finding the best 4-way switches.
Make sure that you indulge in safe practices and don’t hesitate to take expert advice or referring to the buyer’s guide in case there is any confusion left still.
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