Considering the long panel of different kinds of switches present on boats, yachts, and even ships, it’s always a great idea to stick to rocker switches if you plan on replacing or revamping your maritime transport.
What are rocker switches, you might ask? To put it simply, they are switches that make or break a circuit with a press of a button.
This switch gets its name from the rocking motion of the button, which resembles a seesaw moving up or down when pressed.
The reason why these switches are sought after is because of the convenience and simple mechanisms that it offers.
All you have to do is to press it down on either side to perform the intended function. The application for this type of switch is endless as they are spring-loaded, and the formula is proven to be reliable by many.
The best marine rocker switches have flexible position options, a range of different designs to suit your panel’s aesthetic, and it is effortless to change the labels making them customizable as well.
Top 9 Marine Rocker Switches
Now that you are well aware of characteristics that you must look out for, it’s time to zero in on some of the best marine rocker switches in the market.
The following list of reviews will provide insight into the different features, designs, and capabilities of each switch, along with any potential hurdles you might want to avoid.
1. Kohree 5 Gang Rocker Switch Panel
This rocker switch panel is stylish yet versatile. It has a dual USB port and a digital voltage display for your convenience.
The Blue LED lights are the best option one could have, thanks to how bright they are.
You can even use this rocker switchboard for charging your devices as it has that capacity.
Don’t even worry about durability because these switches are all waterproof.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Waterproof
- Versatile
- Stylish
Cons
- Limited two amps capacity
- It can’t be mounted vertically
2. Gerguirry Marine Rocker Switch
This switch panel is ideal for use on a marine boat. It has all the characteristics one can look for.
Whether it’s controlling lights, USB socket, stereo, wiper, or other controls, you will find this option to fulfill all your needs.
The construction is durable enough thanks to the use of aluminum and ABS plastic, which ensures that your switch doesn’t corrode even in extreme conditions.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Multi-purpose
- Beautiful design
- Safety protection
Cons
- No wiring instructions
- Difficult to install
3. FABOOD Waterproof Rocker Switches
The most outstanding quality of this rocker switch panel is its aluminum construction. For the user’s convenience, the manufacturers also provide extra gear like screws and insulated terminals.
The design is also very modern. However, many users claim that the quality of switches alone isn’t the best.
While the producers claim it is prewired, which makes installation easy, it can be challenging to cut a hole of the right size.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Pre-wired switches
- Modern design
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Low-quality switches
- Tricky to install
4. Kohree Marine Boat Rocker
You’re definitely upgrading your entire boat if you choose this six-gang marine boat rocker switch set.
The construction makes this switch perfect for marine use thanks to aluminum and high-grade anti-inflammatory materials being used.
Each switch panel is built to ensure corrosion resistance and durability. Imagine how easy your life will be if you can monitor your battery’s voltage in real-time, and this switchboard allows you to do exactly that.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- High durability
- Real-time voltage monitoring
- Blue light
Cons
- No wiring instructions
- Low-quality screws
5. JOYHO 4/6/8 Gang Rocker Switch Panel
It’s hard to find a problem with this rocker panel switch. It’s compact in size so that it won’t take up much space on your dash but just big enough to ensure comfortable use.
Overall it’s easy to install as it comes pre-wired, so you don’t have to waste your time.
The manufacturers keep the user’s safety a priority with added features like multi-layer heavy-duty protection.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Safe to use
- Easy to install
- Well-designed
Cons
- USB is not 3A
- No light dimming options
6. Amarine Made Waterproof Rocker Switch
Most of the options I have reviewed so far are multifunctional switchboards, but if you’re looking for a single marine rocker switch for replacing an old one or installing an additional one, this is the option for you.
It is waterproof and rubberized, so you can expect it to withstand the harshness of the sea. The blue light is an excellent choice as it’s the brightest option.
It can be problematic for beginners, however, as the switch doesn’t come with any wiring instructions.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Blue light
- Durable
- Heavy duty
Cons
- No wiring instructions
- Plastic feel
7. FXC Waterproof Marine Rocker Switch
Enhance the aesthetics of your boat interior with this marine boat rocker switch panel. The heavy-duty ABS plastic interface can offer a great degree of protection.
You can expect a hassle-free installation process as the panel comes pre-wired.
Another great thing is that you don’t have to visit the hardware store to get the appropriate stickers for labeling as they come with the panel.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Customizable
- Durable
- 3A USB port
Cons
- Included screws are poor in quality.
- No measurements
8. SUNJOYCO 4 Gang Rocker Switch
Don’t need the extra USB ports that some rocker switch panels offer? SUNJOYCO offers a switch panel consisting of only rocker switches for ease of you.
The installation process is made significantly easier thanks to the set of jumper wires, pre-wiring, and mounting screws that come along with it.
It also comes with fuses to ensure no accidental overheating or short circuits occur.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Safe to use
- Durable
- Versatile
- Easy to install
Cons
- Can’t support reconfiguration
- Led remains lit
9. Three Gang Rocker Switch Panel
Always go for a rocker switch panel that is constructed in metal, especially if you plan on using it for marine applications.
This switch panel offers the durability and reliability that one craves for thanks to its aluminum and ABS plastic construction.
You can expect it to work like a charm. Its splash-proof, corrosion-resistant, and has a rubber sealing cap, so you know that it can handle the marine environment without a single sweat.
It’s relatively easy to replace and widely available as well.
More photos & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Easy to install
- Durable
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Led light flickers
- Bulky
Buyer’s Guide
Replacing or installing a new switch on your boat is a risky task.
To ensure that you make a well-informed decision, this buyer’s guide will touch upon all the important considerations that you must take into account to make the most suitable decision and select only the best Marine rocker switches for your vessel.
Application
Whether you’re an expert or a boat enthusiast, you must know the importance of having only the most reliable set of switches on your panel even though decisions regarding the boat’s electrical system may not seem that complex,
Especially when it comes to choosing marine rocker switches to know that they can affect the vessel’s overall look and safety capacity.
Since the switch panel is the hub of the vessel’s electrical capabilities and controls, they require research and an assessment of its wirings.
Once you have figured out the intended need and the function you intend on performing with the marine rocker switch, you will be able to filter through a wide variety of options for the most suitable option with the right capacity, durability, and specifications.
Design
The design of your marine rocker switches is super important; you can’t have a set of mismatched switches, which could potentially ruin the whole look as well as add confusion.
Paying attention to the design can set the right tone for your switch panel’s aesthetic.
Apart from the outlook, different design options offer a different set of functions, e.g., Different manufacturers offer a variety of rocker switch styles that can vary from night readable-etched rockers to printed rockers.
Some even come with backlighting, which can help you locate and operate the switches even in low light or dark conditions.
While the color of the lights mostly depends on the user’s preference so colors may be a better option for you than others.
If you use your boat mainly in the dark or at night, blue-colored lights are the brightest option, followed by white, which aren’t as bright as the latter but still do a good job, significantly if the ultra-bright blue lights hurt your eyes.
Lastly, the red color light option should only be used if you use your boat in the dark because it is impossible to tell whether they are on or off in bright light conditions.
Therefore you must look at the size and design of different rocker switches to choose an option that can optimize convenience and ease of use.
Durability
Since you are looking for marine rocker switches choosing a durable and reliable option is a no-brainer.
The boat operates in all kinds of extreme conditions, so invest in a rocker switch style that is waterproof and dustproof; you don’t want a switch that starts malfunctioning.
This can be extremely dangerous for you. It’s always a smart decision to choose a marine rocker switch with a high-quality construction that can handle adverse conditions, especially in the long run.
Replacing switches frequently can damage the wiring of your boat as well.
Installation
Since installing switches requires you to tweak the wiring of your boat, it is pertinent to make a mental note of all the electrical features of the boat.
Reassess the wiring and make sure that the wiring components are placed in a way that does not damage the boat’s capabilities.
Pay special attention to the already present dash board’s placement of built-in features.
Do keep the guidelines provided by the manufacturer in mind to make the best possible use out of the switch without posing any hazards on you.
Work smart by opting for easy installation options as they can save you both time and effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are rocker switches better?
While this entirely depends on your intended use, they are more desirable for their ease of use.
Are rocker switches waterproof?
Not all rocker switches are waterproof.
What is the difference between the toggle switch and rocker switch?
Toggle switches are mounted from the back.
How do you change a rocker switch on a Marine?
First, unplug the unit and take the panel off. Flip the panel to its backside and locate the terminals; remember that went you install the switch, the terminals need to be on the right side.
Squeeze the tabs and take the old switch out. Next, attach the wires in the same sequence of the old switch to the new one and put the switch back in.
Do rocker switches go bad?
Yes, just like other switches, corrosion can occur with time.
How does a rocker switch work?
It has a button interface that makes or breaks the circuit when pressed in one direction.
How can you tell if a rocker switch is bad?
You can test it with an ohmmeter or a continuity tester. If there is no continuity at the on position and continuity at the off position, your rocker switch works fine.
How do you change a rocker switch?
After unplugging the unit, take the panel off and flip it. Locate the terminals of the previous switch and take out the switch.
Finish by wiring the terminals in the same manner on the new switch and place it in.
Conclusion
I hope the buyer’s guide and list of reviews provided you with sufficient knowledge to choose the right marine rocker switches.
Always keep the pointers mentioned above in mind. Good luck with all your adventures!
Read Also
Leave a Reply