Whether it’s medical beds, call centers, hair removal, or optical instruments and press iron machines, it seems that without footswitches, this equipment will be inoperable.
To summarize, a footswitch lets the user change sound, select a channel, or switch on and off any specific functions with the help of their foot.
The industrial, health and beauty, agriculture, and automation sectors utilize footswitches in various kinds of applications.
The reason for this that often, foot switches come with specific advantages that no other type of switch can compete with.
Footswitches are sometimes also called foot pedals, and since they are operated with the user’s foot, it can give them the ability to multi-task.
If you plan on utilizing both your hands, you can conveniently rely on the best foot switches.
Another great thing about them is that since these devices sit on the floor, they don’t take a lot of space.
This benefit is often taken advantage of at call centers or production lines where desk space is limited.
Top 10 Foot Switches Reviews
Now that you are aware of a general guideline for footswitches, it’s time to do a bit of market research.
The list of reviews will talk about the most popular footswitch options that are available in the market.
Each review will discuss the product in detail and provide objective insights that you can rely on.
1. MLCS 9080 Billy Pedal Foot Switch
Imagine having you both your hands-free to perform any task, or if the nature of your work is a danger to your hands, you can rest easy knowing that this router switch will get the job done without getting them involved.
The pedal is super convenient because it can switch off any tool connected to the switch upon releasing the pressure from the footswitch.
It’s also super easy to install as all the user needs to do is connect it to the outlet and the tool into the billy pedal.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Easy to install
- Safe to use
- Long Cord
Cons
- Absence of nonslip material at the bottom
- No HP rating
2. Tailonz Pneumatic 1/4″
This footswitch is the epitome of resilience due to the special care taken by the manufacturers in the construction and design.
The foot pedal is pneumatic, so you can easily use it without electricity. The full copper coil and no-skid rubber marks ensure that the user works safely without any problems.
The reset spring is made of stainless steel, so you can expect it to be durable. Some users do complain that the airflow is not sufficient enough for sandblasters.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to install
- No leaks
Cons
- No plumbing instructions
- Insufficient airflow for sandblasters
3. TEMCo Heavy Duty Foot Switch CN0003
If you are looking for a heavy-duty footswitch that can handle some roughening up thanks to the heavy thickness cast iron.
The cord is also strain relief, whereas the no-slip base pads make sure you gain on efficiency. The design will ensure that you don’t get any water, oil, or dust in.
The clicking from the switch is convenient for operation so that you can avoid any mistakes. The Quality of the switch is impeccable.
However, there is no instruction manual with the footswitch.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Heavy duty
- Durable
- High Quality
Cons
- No instruction manual
- No wiring harness
4. Foredom SR, L, 3 Prong – C-FCT-1
You can trust this variable speed foot pedal to get your work done without putting a dent in your wallet. The best part is the durable materials it is made from.
The heavy-duty plastic and durable solid-state electronics make it a joyride. The ergonomically designed foot pedal lets the user work with precision.
The mounting holes and rubber feet make sure the foot pedal doesn’t slip from under your feet, which can be a cause of accidents and it’s a safety hazard.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Safe to use
- Accurate
- Reliable
Cons
- Light in weight
- Speed control works only when the tool is on the highest speed
5. URBEST Black AC 250V 10A
This footswitch makes sure any tool is operable by a press of your foot. No worries if you don’t have enough space on your desk because this footswitch is placed on the floor.
The applications are endless, whether it’s the industrial sector or for use at home. If you are based in the US, you may need to buy a voltage converter.
However, a few users have had an issue with how light in weight the product is.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Versatile
- Convenient to use
- Safe to use
Cons
- A voltage converter is needed.
- May heat-up
6. Philips, Black, Plug-in Footswitch
It’s time you gave your wall outlet with the help of this plugin polarized power switch.
You can manage your lighting easily and conveniently, whether it’s for the holidays or normal days.
The design is easy on the eyes, so your house doesn’t stop looking stylish. The 9 ft power cord makes sure that you don’t have to move to the wall.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Convenient to use
- Long Cord
Cons
- Narrow button base
- Not grounded
7. Foot Pedal Push Switch
No other foot pedal is this easy to install; all you need is a wire and a plug. Just attach the power cord to the light source with the help of a wire and consider your job done.
The use is not just limited to be used with the help of a foot like more foot pedals. Instead, you can use even your hands if need be.
Whether you want to use it in your house or at the office, this will get the job done. It can even handle some light industrial work.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Comfortable
- Easy installation
- Versatile
Cons
- Heats up
- Short wire
8. Linemaster T-91-SC3A Foot Switch
If you’re looking for something that you can use in your daily life, this foot switch can be a great help.
The ½ HP footswitch can be easily used with light-duty switches. The construction makes sure that this switch is free from erosion.
You can give your hands a rest and use your feet. The non-skid marks make it safe to use.
Since it is made in metal, it’s sturdy enough to hold out on the floor without any slipping away.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Sturdy
- Durable
- Safe to use
Cons
- Rigid cord
- Tight plug
9. SSC Controls S420-1501 Foot Switch
You can control electrical devices with the help of your foot.
Whether it is turning them on or off, just place the pressure of your foot on the switch and use it with lighting, power tools, and office equipment.
The 15 amp rating also allows for the user to use it with most electrical devices. The installation isn’t complicated, either.
Instead, you get the convenience of a long cord that can be plugged into an outlet to get you started.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Versatile
- Easy to install
- Compact design
Cons
- Hard
- Lightweight
10. XURUI Power Maintained Foot Switch
Are you tired of footswitches that are light in weight because of which they keep on toppling over or sliding from under your feet?
You no longer have to deal with them thanks to this particular footswitch since this is made in Aluminum, which gives it not only the right girth and weight to remain steady but also durability.
The mounting holes and no-slip are added benefits that make sure you have a safe working environment.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Easy to use
- No slipping
- Durable
Cons
- Flimsy electric plug
- Small
Buyer’s Guide
Footswitches can be tricky to buy, especially if you’re inexperienced, so to make things easier;
I have created a comprehensive list of points that you must take into consideration before making a buying decision.
If you pay attention to the following points, your chances of finding the best footswitches will exponentially increase.
Application
Your choice of footswitch is completely reliant on its application and your preference.
So the first thing you need to figure out is what do you intend on using the footswitch for.
This will help you narrow down your requirements and will significantly clarify any confusion.
Knowing exactly what you want is often the best strategy to get the ideal footswitch that will serve it’s intended purpose.
Voltage and Current Ratings
Once you have figured out the intended application of the footswitch, you should know the voltage and current ratings of your circuit.
Since the footswitch is another component that needs to be connected to the circuit, ensure that the contacts of the footswitch can handle the voltage and current that flows through the circuit.
Choosing a switch that is unable to do that can result in damaging the entire circuit, and chances are your footswitch would not be able to perform its intended task either.
Do take into account whether your switch is AC or DC powered since both voltage and current ratings can vary because of them.
Poles and Throws
I mentioned figuring out the application of the footswitch earlier because it will help you figure out how many numbers of poles you might require.
Determine the number of circuits, fixed contacts, and then choose the number of throws accordingly.
Look for a footswitch depending on your findings instead of just going on a gut feel.
N.O and N.C Contacts
See if you will gain productivity if you opt for a footswitch with momentary action switches.
What this type of switch does is that they enable you to close or open a circuit but return to the original state via a spring mechanism.
If so, you will need to see if you prefer a footswitch that comes in normally open or normally closed contacts.
Enclosure Protection
Depending on the environment you are working in, you must ensure that you adhere to all the protocols to minimize any risk of accidents.
Each working environment has its specifications and thus has an enclosure protection rating accordingly.
You can refer to NEMA and check whether you would require special protection enclosures to maintain a safe environment for you and others.
Construction and Design
The construction materials of a footswitch often shed light on its durability.
It hence depends on your application whether you would require a heavy-duty option because of continuous use or one that is not used that often decide on the materials you would want your switch to be made of.
Usually, cast aluminum or steel switches tend to be better for industrial usage, whereas thermoplastic materials can be a great choice for standard use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a footswitch?
A footswitch is a control that lets you perform different functions when connected to devices with the use of your foot.
How does footswitch work?
It makes or breaks a circuit when pressure is applied to it by the foot.
What is a footswitch input?
These are the features that can be controlled via the footswitch, such as reverb, channel switching, etc.
What is a computer foot pedal?
It allows the user to play, rewind and forward by tapping sections of the foot pedal with the toes of your foot.
Can any footswitch be used centers amp?
No, as each footswitch performs a different function such as making or breaking a circuit, polarity changes, voltage drop, etc.
What is a latching footswitch?
This type of footswitch remains in the state once pressed on. So if you switched it on by pressing the foot, it would remain on until you press it again.
How do I connect my foot pedal to my computer?
Your foot pedal can be connected via the USB port.
What’s the difference between latching and momentary switch?
A momentary switch returns to its normal position, whereas a latching switch remains in its changed state unless pressed upon again.
Conclusion
I hope the buyer’s guide and list of reviews helped you find the best foots witch that is ideal and well suited to your needs.
If you’re still hesitant and confused, trying it out and getting some hands-on experience will surely help erase any remaining doubts.
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