# DPDT vs SPDT vs SPST Rocker Switch Explained: Differences, Wiring & Applications

Date: 2026-04-26
Categories: Product Guide
URL: https://cenyutech.com/rocker-switch-types-spst-spdt-dpdt.html

### ![SPST SPDT DPDT rocker switch comparison wiring diagram](https://cenyutech.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/20260426221408112383-800x533.webp)

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### What is SPST, SPDT, and DPDT?

- **SPST (Single Pole Single Throw)**→ Simple ON-OFF switch (2 pin)

- **SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw)**→ Switch between two circuits (3 pin)

- **DPDT (Double Pole Double Throw)**→ Control two circuits simultaneously (6 pin)

**Quick summary:**

- SPST = ON / OFF

- SPDT = A / OFF / B

- DPDT = Dual A / OFF / Dual B

### Switch Structure Comparison

Type
Poles
Throws
Pins
Function

SPST
1
1
2 Pin
ON-OFF

SPDT
1
2
3 Pin
ON-OFF-ON

DPDT
2
2
6 Pin
Dual Circuit ON-OFF-ON

### Wiring Differences Explained

- **SPST wiring**: simple series connection for power ON/OFF

- **SPDT wiring**: one common terminal switches between two outputs

- **DPDT wiring**: dual circuits switch simultaneously, often used for reversing polarity

Typical use case: DPDT switches are commonly used for motor forward/reverse control.

### Applications Comparison

- **SPST Switch**

Power ON/OFF control

- Household appliances

- Basic electrical circuits

- **SPDT Switch**

Mode selection

- Signal switching

- Audio routing

- **DPDT Switch**

Motor forward/reverse control

- Dual circuit systems

- Industrial automation

**Summary:**SPST is used for basic switching, SPDT for selecting between circuits, and DPDT for complex multi-circuit control.

### How to Choose the Right Rocker Switch

When selecting a rocker switch, consider:

- Circuit complexity

- Number of outputs required

- Voltage and current rating

- Application type (consumer or industrial)

**Quick selection guide:**

- Simple ON/OFF → SPST

- Two-way switching → SPDT

- Dual circuit control → DPDT

### Why Choose Our Rocker Switch

- Professional **SPST SPDT DPDT rocker switch manufacturer** with a complete product range

- OEM / ODM customization for **2 pin, 3 pin, and 6 pin rocker switch projects**

- Reliable **panel mount power switches for appliances and industrial systems**

- High-quality **dual circuit rocker switch factory in China with strict QC standards**

- Durable **rocker switch solutions for motor control and automation applications**

- Fast delivery and global B2B supply support

### FAQ

**Q1: What is the difference between SPST, SPDT, and DPDT?**SPST controls one circuit, SPDT switches between two outputs, and DPDT controls two circuits simultaneously.

**Q2: What is a DPDT rocker switch used for?**It is commonly used for motor reversing and dual circuit control applications.

**Q3: How many pins does each switch type have?**SPST has 2 pins, SPDT has 3 pins, and DPDT has 6 pins.

**Q4: Which rocker switch is best for simple ON/OFF control?**SPST is the best choice for simple ON-OFF applications.

**Q5: Can rocker switches be customized?**Yes, OEM/ODM customization is available for all switch types, including terminals, ratings, and design.