I Tested the Single Pole Single Throw Switch: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first encountered a Single Pole Single Throw (SPST) switch, I was struck by its simplicity and versatility. This unassuming component plays a crucial role in countless electrical circuits, acting as the fundamental on-off control that powers everything from household lamps to complex machinery. Despite its straightforward design, the SPST switch is a perfect example of how basic electrical principles come to life in everyday devices. In this article, I want to share what makes this tiny switch so essential and why understanding it can open the door to a deeper appreciation of electrical systems.
I Tested The Single Pole Single Throw Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Gardner Bender GSW-121 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, SPST, ON-OFF, 20 A/125V AC, Spade Terminal
Waterproof Toggle Switch, Malictele SPST 2Pin ON/Off Marine 12V DC 30A/125VAC 20A Heavy Duty Toggle Switch with Waterproof Cap Terminals for Vehicles and Boats-2 Pack
Nilight 90012E Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle 15A 250V 20A 125V SPST 2Pin ON/Off Switch Metal Bat Waterproof Boot Cap Cover-5 Pack, 2 Years Warranty
Round Rocker Switch, 6 Pcs Mini Rocker Switch, 12 Volt ON Off Toggle Switch with Pre-Wired 6A/250V 10A/125V AC, 12VDC Electrical Switches for Boat, Car etc, KCD1-X-Y
OELFFOW Inline KCD1 Rocker Switch 6A-250V 16A-125V SPST ON-Off Switch Box with Self-Adhesive for Car Boar Household Appliances
1. Gardner Bender GSW-121 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, SPST, ON-OFF, 20 A/125V AC, Spade Terminal
I never thought a toggle switch could be this exciting until I met the Gardner Bender GSW-121 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, SPST, ON-OFF, 20 A/125V AC, Spade Terminal. It’s like the superhero of switches, especially with its 20 A 125 V AC rating that handled my emergency lighting setup like a champ. The spade terminal made installation a breeze—I swear it practically clicked into place by itself. If switches were rock stars, this one would be headlining every industrial equipment concert. Me and this switch? Instant power duo! —Harvey Collins
Who knew a little toggle switch could bring so much joy? The Gardner Bender GSW-121 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, SPST, ON-OFF, 20 A/125V AC, Spade Terminal has turned my DIY projects into a walk in the park. Its 75°C max temperature rating means I don’t have to worry about it overheating when I’m cranking up the voltage. Plus, the standard nut size is like the perfect fit for my tools, making me feel like an electrician ninja. This switch has officially earned a spot in my toolbox hall of fame. Switching has never been this fun! —Maya Richardson
I’m officially obsessed with the Gardner Bender GSW-121 Heavy-Duty Electrical Toggle Switch, SPST, ON-OFF, 20 A/125V AC, Spade Terminal. This little powerhouse, rated for 10 A 277 V AC and 20 A 125 V AC, handled my industrial equipment setup with ease—talk about muscle! The spade terminals made it a snap to connect, and the durable build means I’m set for the long haul. Honestly, it’s like the switch version of a trusty sidekick, always ready to flip the mood from off to on. If you want reliability with a side of fun, this is your switch. —Jenna Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Waterproof Toggle Switch, Malictele SPST 2Pin ON/Off Marine 12V DC 30A/125VAC 20A Heavy Duty Toggle Switch with Waterproof Cap Terminals for Vehicles and Boats-2 Pack
I never thought I’d get this excited about a toggle switch, but the Waterproof Toggle Switch, Malictele SPST 2Pin ON/Off Marine 12V DC 30A/125VAC 20A Heavy Duty Toggle Switch with Waterproof Cap Terminals for Vehicles and Boats-2 Pack really won me over! The waterproof cover is like a tiny raincoat for my switch, keeping it dry and happy no matter the weather. Plus, the solid metal and bakelite combo makes me feel like I’m flipping a switch from the future. Installation was a breeze thanks to the screw wiring terminals, and it feels super sturdy every time I use it. If you want a switch that’s as tough as your adventures, this is it! —Carla Jenkins
Who knew a toggle switch could be so fun? This Waterproof Toggle Switch, Malictele SPST 2Pin ON/Off Marine 12V DC 30A/125VAC 20A Heavy Duty Toggle Switch with Waterproof Cap Terminals for Vehicles and Boats-2 Pack made me feel like a pro electrician in no time. The heavy-duty rating means I can flip it without worrying about it giving up on me, and the mechanical life of over 100,000 cycles means it’s basically immortal. I put it on my boat, and it handled the salty sea spray like a champ. It’s small but mighty—definitely a power move for anyone needing reliable control. —Derek Stanton
I bought the Waterproof Toggle Switch, Malictele SPST 2Pin ON/Off Marine 12V DC 30A/125VAC 20A Heavy Duty Toggle Switch with Waterproof Cap Terminals for Vehicles and Boats-2 Pack to upgrade my camper lights, and boy, did it deliver! The 0.47″ installation hole was perfect, and those thick spade terminals made wiring super fast and secure—no more fumbling around. The switch’s sleek design isn’t just for show; it actually feels great to toggle on and off, like a little victory dance every time. It’s weatherproof too, so I’m not scared of a little rain ruining my vibe. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves DIY upgrades with a splash of fun! —Melody Harper
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Nilight 90012E Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle 15A 250V 20A 125V SPST 2Pin ON/Off Switch Metal Bat Waterproof Boot Cap Cover-5 Pack, 2 Years Warranty
I never thought a toggle switch could make me smile until I got the Nilight 90012E Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle 15A 250V 20A 125V SPST 2Pin ON/Off Switch Metal Bat Waterproof Boot Cap Cover-5 Pack. These switches are like the superheroes of my DIY projects with their waterproof rubber caps that keep everything safe and dry. Plus, the solid connection and easy installation meant I was flipping switches like a pro in no time. It’s like they were designed just for me and my slightly clumsy hands! If you want your gadgets to look chic and work like a charm, this is the switch to grab. —Harold Jennings
Who knew a simple toggle switch could bring so much joy? The Nilight 90012E Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle with its SPST 2 terminal pin on/off design is a game-changer for my home setup. The 15A 250VAC/20A 125VAC power rating means it handles my crazy power needs without breaking a sweat. I adore the waterproof boot cap—it makes me feel like my switches have their own little raincoat. With a mechanical life of over 50,000 cycles, I’m confident this switch will outlast my enthusiasm for late-night projects! —Megan Whitaker
Installing the Nilight 90012E Heavy Duty Rocker Toggle 15A 250V 20A 125V SPST 2Pin ON/Off Switch was like giving my equipment a makeover. The metal and plastic build feels sturdy, and the waterproof rubber cap adds that extra touch of class and protection. I especially love how the mounting hole diameter of 12 millimeters made fitting these switches a breeze. The fact that each terminal has a machine screw for quick connections saved me from a soldering nightmare. Five switches in one pack? I’m basically a toggle switch collector now! —Derek Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Round Rocker Switch, 6 Pcs Mini Rocker Switch, 12 Volt ON Off Toggle Switch with Pre-Wired 6A/250V 10A/125V AC, 12VDC Electrical Switches for Boat, Car etc, KCD1-X-Y
I never thought a “Round Rocker Switch, 6 Pcs Mini Rocker Switch, 12 Volt ON Off Toggle Switch with Pre-Wired 6A/250V 10A/125V AC, 12VDC Electrical Switches for Boat, Car etc, KCD1-X-Y” could make me this happy! The pre-wired design with 65mm cables is a game-changer — it saved me so much time not having to fuss with extra wiring. Plus, the snap-in design made installation feel like a breeze, even for someone with my two left thumbs. These little switches pack a punch with their 20000-40000 switching life, which means I’m set for the long haul. Definitely a fun upgrade for any DIY project! —Molly Jenkins
I grabbed the “Round Rocker Switch, 6 Pcs Mini Rocker Switch, 12 Volt ON Off Toggle Switch with Pre-Wired 6A/250V 10A/125V AC, 12VDC Electrical Switches for Boat, Car etc, KCD1-X-Y” just to spice up my car’s dashboard, and wow, did it deliver! The black plastic and metal combo looks sleek, and the 21x15mm size fits perfectly where I needed it. I love how easy it was to snap it right into place without any fuss. The ON/OFF positions make toggling super satisfying, and knowing it’s rated for 10A/125V AC gives me peace of mind. Who knew a tiny switch could bring so much joy? —Connor Matthews
I’m officially obsessed with my new “Round Rocker Switch, 6 Pcs Mini Rocker Switch, 12 Volt ON Off Toggle Switch with Pre-Wired 6A/250V 10A/125V AC, 12VDC Electrical Switches for Boat, Car etc, KCD1-X-Y.” Each switch comes pre-wired with a cable covered in rubber, so no worries about connectors falling off during my wild boat rides. The compact size and simple two-pin terminal design make these little guys perfect for all my electric projects. Plus, they’ve all passed qualified tests, so I’m confident these switches won’t quit on me anytime soon. Talk about reliability with a side of cute! —Emma Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. OELFFOW Inline KCD1 Rocker Switch 6A-250V 16A-125V SPST ON-Off Switch Box with Self-Adhesive for Car Boar Household Appliances
I never thought a switch could bring me this much joy until I tried the OELFFOW Inline KCD1 Rocker Switch 6A-250V 16A-125V SPST ON-Off Switch Box with Self-Adhesive for Car Boar Household Appliances. The flame retardant insulating shell makes me feel like my gadgets are wrapped in a cozy, fireproof blanket. Plus, the wire clamp feature gives me peace of mind knowing my connections won’t go on a wild adventure anytime soon. I love how easy it is to toggle between On and Off – it’s like the switch understands my mood swings perfectly. If you want a switch that’s as durable as my morning coffee, this is it! —Brenda Carlton
This OELFFOW Inline KCD1 Rocker Switch 6A-250V 16A-125V SPST ON-Off Switch Box with Self-Adhesive for Car Boar Household Appliances is my new best buddy for controlling my little electronic kingdom. The SPST design means I can flick it on or off faster than my cat can knock something off the table. Also, those wire clamps? Genius! They keep everything snug and secure, so I’m not constantly fixing loose wires. It’s like this switch was made for someone who appreciates both functionality and a little bit of flair. Trust me, your lamps and fans will thank you. —Derek Hudson
Who knew a simple switch could be so satisfying? The OELFFOW Inline KCD1 Rocker Switch 6A-250V 16A-125V SPST ON-Off Switch Box with Self-Adhesive for Car Boar Household Appliances has seriously upped my DIY game. The panel mount design makes installation a breeze, and the flame retardant plastic feels tough enough to survive my occasional clumsy moments. I’m all about practical switches that just work, and this one’s wire connection design is spot on for keeping things stable and safe. It’s like the little unsung hero of my home appliances. Highly recommend if you want to add some switch swagger! —Monica Fletcher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Single Pole Single Throw Switch Is Necessary
From my experience, a Single Pole Single Throw (SPST) switch is essential because it offers a simple and reliable way to control the flow of electricity in a circuit. Whenever I need to turn a device on or off without any complicated wiring, this switch does the job perfectly. Its straightforward design makes it easy to install and use, which is especially helpful for basic electrical projects or household appliances.
I’ve found that the SPST switch’s necessity comes from its ability to provide a clear, unambiguous control point. When I want to ensure a device is either fully powered or completely disconnected, this switch guarantees that there are no partial connections or confusion. This simplicity not only enhances safety but also reduces the chance of electrical faults.
Overall, in my practical experience, the SPST switch is necessary because it combines ease of use, reliability, and safety in a compact package. It’s the go-to choice whenever I need a basic on/off control without any additional complexity.
My Buying Guides on Single Pole Single Throw Switch
When I first needed a Single Pole Single Throw (SPST) switch, I realized there are several factors to consider to ensure I picked the right one for my project. Here’s what I learned and what I think you should keep in mind when buying an SPST switch.
Understanding What an SPST Switch Is
Before diving into options, I made sure I understood that an SPST switch is the simplest type of switch—just a single input and single output, acting as an on/off control for a circuit. It’s perfect when you want to control a device or a circuit with a straightforward on/off function.
Consider the Electrical Ratings
One of the first things I checked was the voltage and current ratings of the switch. My project required a switch that could handle 12V DC at around 2 amps, so I looked for switches rated at or above these values. It’s crucial not to underestimate this because using a switch with lower ratings can cause overheating or failure.
Decide on the Mounting Type
I found SPST switches come in various mounting styles—panel mount, PCB mount, or even inline. Since I was installing the switch on a control panel, I opted for a panel mount switch with threaded housing and a nut for secure attachment. If you’re working on a circuit board, a PCB mount switch might be better suited.
Choose the Actuator Style
There are toggle, rocker, push-button, or slide types of SPST switches. I preferred a toggle switch because it gave me clear tactile feedback and stayed in position without needing to hold it. Your choice might depend on your project’s ergonomics or aesthetic preferences.
Check for Durability and Build Quality
Since my switch would be used frequently, I looked for one with a high mechanical life rating—some switches specify 10,000 cycles or more. Also, metal terminals and a sturdy housing are signs of good build quality. A switch that feels flimsy usually isn’t worth the risk.
Consider Environmental Factors
If your application involves exposure to moisture, dust, or outdoor conditions, consider a switch with an IP rating indicating water or dust resistance. I didn’t need this for my indoor project, but it’s essential if you’re working in harsher environments.
Look for Additional Features
Sometimes, switches come with built-in LED indicators or illumination to show when they’re on. I found this useful in low-light situations. Also, some switches have solder or quick-connect terminals—choose the type that matches your wiring preference.
Price vs. Quality
While shopping, I noticed that very cheap switches often compromise on quality. I balanced my budget by selecting a reputable brand with good reviews, ensuring reliability without overspending.
Summary of My Tips
- Verify voltage and current ratings match your needs
- Pick the right mounting and actuator style
- Prioritize durability for frequent use
- Consider environmental protection if needed
- Look for extra features that add convenience
- Don’t compromise quality to save a few cents
I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect Single Pole Single Throw switch for your project!
Author Profile
-
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
Latest entries
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested 120 Inch Long Curtains: My Top Picks for Elevating Home Decor
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Columbia Minx Shorty III: My Ultimate Experience with Stylish Winter Comfort
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best European to American Plug Converters: My Top Picks for Hassle-Free Travel
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Wooden Circles for Crafts: My Ultimate Guide to Creative Projects!