Different Types of Switches in Electrical and Electronics | New Topic 2025

In this note, we are going to know about Different Types of Switches in Electrical and Electronics like, toggle switch, SPDT switch, DPDT switch, and many more. Welcome to Poly Notes Hub, a leading destination for electrical engineering notes for diploma and degree engineering students.

Author Name: Arun Paul.

Different Types of Switches in Electrical and Electronics

There are different types of switches in Electrical and Electronics, which are classified according to their design, functionality, and uses. This is a thorough breakdown –

1. Toggle Switch: A toggle switch is a manually operated switch featuring a lever that maintains its position once flipped. It is commonly used for controlling electrical devices in on/off configurations.
   • Applications:
     • Light switches in homes.
     • Industrial machinery control.
     • Power switches in electronic devices.
2. Push Button Switch: Push button switches are activated by pressing a button, available in momentary or latching types. They are compact and ideal for user interfaces and control panels in various applications.
   • Applications:
     • Doorbells and alarms.
     • Start/stop controls in machinery.
     • User interface buttons on electronics devices.
3. Slide Switch: A slide switch operates by sliding a lever to open or close a circuit. It is commonly used in compact devices and portable electronics due to its simple mechanism and ease of use.
   • Applications:
     • Toys and gadgets.
     • Audio equipment controls.
     • Remote controls for devices.
4. Rotary Switch: Rotary switches allow users to select different circuits by rotating a knob. They are ideal for devices that require multiple configurations or modes.
   • Applications:
     • Fan speed regulators.
     • Mode selection in ovens or washing machines.
     • Audio and video equipment controls.
5. DIP Switch: DIP (Dual In-line Package) switches are small manual switches used to configure settings on circuit boards. They are often employed in compact, low-power applications where digital selection is required.
   • Applications:
     • Configuring computer motherboards.
     • Setting options in industrial equipment.
     • Programming devices like remote controls.
6. Limit Switch: Limit switches are mechanically operated devices that trigger based on physical contact or motion. They are used in safety-critical systems to ensure controlled operations and prevent damage.
   • Applications:
     • Industrial machinery safety interlocks.
     • Garage door operation.
     • Position control in elevators.
7. SPDT Switch: The SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) switch directs current to one of two outputs, making it versatile for dual-circuit operations and applications requiring alternate connections.
   • Applications:
     • Two-way lighting controls.
     • Selector switches in industrial systems.
     • Switching circuits in automation.
8. Mechanical Switch: Mechanical switches require physical force to operate, making or breaking a connection through contact. They are reliable and widely used in various applications requiring tactile feedback.
   • Applications:
     • Keyboards and input devices.
     • Industrial control panels.
     • On/off switches in household appliances.

There are many types of switches in electrical and electronics applications. However, in this blog, we have listed 8 types of switches commonly used in our daily electrical and electronic products and appliances.