Which Is Better, Toggle Or Rocker Switch?

When making renovations or actual house constructions, there comes a time when you must decide which type of switch you want to put in the house. While the decision may appear trivial at first glance, the choice of the switch determines many things in the house, including functionality, the home's aesthetic, and the house's general style.

There are many options to choose from when it comes to electric switches. However, the most common ones are the toggle switch and the rocker switch. This article considers the different switches available to you, ultimately proposing which switch you should go for if given a choice between the two.

Aspects to Consider When Choosing A Switch

You must consider the following four aspects when deciding whether to get a rocker switch or a toggle switch.

The Functionality and Wiring of the Switch

The wiring of the circuit determines the type of switch to go for. The functionality and wiring could also determine the house's style and the switch's back panel. Unfortunately, since both the inline rocker switch and a toggle switch have the same functionality and wiring method, this is not an element of distinction.

The Operation of The Switch

The operation of the switch determines the convenience of use. Some switches flip up and down, others require you to pull the switch power cord, while others pop inside and outside when switching on and off. The primary functionality of the rocker and the toggle switch is similar. However, toggle switches make a louder click when turning on and off.

The Price of the Switch

Building and renovating houses could be a costly affair. Sometimes, saving a buck or two on the small construction elements could go a long way. The prices of switches vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and design or quality. In most instances, toggle switches tend to be more expensive than rockers since rockers are more popular and have higher economies of scale.

The Appearance of the Switch

Appearance is critical during renovations. When changing the switch of the house, you have to make sure that the switch meets the house's aesthetic. Having a switch that does not match the house could cause some discordance in the house's appearance since the switch will look out of place. In most instances, rocker switches have a modern aesthetic compared to toggle switches.

Pros and Cons of Rocker Switches

Rocker switches have a sleek design when compared to toggle switches. Therefore, you may find them in use in modern scenes such as modern-themed houses. You can also easily customize them to communicate functions. For instance, placing an icon on top of a rocker switch is easy to communicate where the on and offside are. Third, you can also set a backlight on a rocker switch to show when there is a current passing through.

However, some of the disadvantages of using rocker switches are as follows. First, since the rocker switches are hollow inside, debris and dirt may accumulate and hinder the functioning of the switch. This may be disadvantageous since the switch may get stuck and not work well. The best option would be to ensure that the switch is sealed at all times to ensure nothing can get inside. Secondly, rocker switches are generally bulkier than toggle switches. Thus, if space is an issue for you, you may want to reconsider the choice of rocker switches.

Pros and Cons of Toggle Switches

Toggle switches are typically smaller than rocker switches. They have a smaller footprint and are ideal for smaller switchboards and circuits. Secondly, toggle switches are easier to seal than rocker switches. Thus, unlike rocker switches, they are unlikely to get clogged and stuck when in use. Therefore, toggle switches are highly durable and are reliable in instances where you will not have the opportunity to do numerous renovations and changes.

On the downside, there are minimal options for backlighting where toggle switches are concerned. The switches have no hollow part beneath them where you can place a light to indicate on or off. Therefore, you must place a secondary circuit if you want a backlight. Secondly, the surfaces for labeling are also limited. You will need to label the wall to indicate which direction the switch should be flipped.

Verdict

The answer to what switch is better between the toggle switch and the rocket switch is unclear. All switches have merits and demerits depending on the use of the switch. Therefore, all the switches are applicable in different scenarios. If you want to use the switch on a small surface with little interest in aesthetics, the toggle switch will work best for you. However, if you want to use the switch on a larger surface, rocket switches are ideal.