Switches and Sockets Selection Guide
Selection guide for flush and surface wall switches, grounded and weatherproof sockets, modular mechanisms and frames, power strips and dimmers.
What are switches and sockets? Switches and sockets are residential, commercial, and light-industrial wiring devices used to control lighting circuits and provide safe 230 V AC power, data, and multimedia outlets.
This guide explains how to choose products across the Switches and Sockets category by circuit function, mounting method, and environmental rating.
Subcategories and applications
- Wall switches: 1-gang one-way switches, 2-gang (commutator) switches, two-way (staircase) switches, intermediate switches, roller shutter switches, and bell push buttons.
- Wall sockets: Grounded Schuko sockets, child-protected sockets, hinged-lid splash-proof sockets, pin-earth UPS sockets, and USB wall outlets.
- Switch and socket mechanisms, keys, covers, and frames: Modular inserts, rocker covers, and 1-gang to 6-gang horizontal/vertical multi-frames.
- Home and office power strips and overcurrent-protected sockets: Corded and uncorded multi-outlet strips, switched power strips, and surge-protected outlets.
- Dimmers: Rotary and push-rotary lighting dimmers.
- Audio and video sockets: CAT6 RJ45 data, RJ11 telephone, coaxial TV/satellite, and HDMI outlets.
- Switch and socket boxes and junction boxes: Masonry flush boxes, drywall (plasterboard) clamping boxes, and surface backboxes.
Wiring device comparison table
| Device Type | Circuit Function | Rated Capacity | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Gang / 2-Gang Switch | Controls 1 or 2 lighting loads from one location | 10 A, 250 V AC | Room and office general lighting |
| Two-Way / Intermediate Switch | Controls one lighting circuit from 2 or 3+ locations | 10 A, 250 V AC | Hallways, staircases and bedrooms |
| Grounded Socket (Schuko) | Side-earth clips (L + N + PE) | 16 A, 250 V AC | Standard household and office appliances |
| UPS Socket (Pin Earth) | Center earth pin prevents non-UPS loads | 16 A, 250 V AC | Dedicated backup power lines for PCs and servers |
| Weatherproof (IP44/IP54) | Gasketed housing with spring-loaded lid | 10 A / 16 A, 250 V AC | Bathrooms, balconies, garages and utility rooms |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a 2-gang (commutator) switch and a two-way switch?
A 2-gang switch has two rockers that control two separate lighting circuits from a single box. A two-way switch has a changeover contact and is used in pairs to control the same lighting circuit from two different entrances.
How do modular mechanisms, covers, and multi-gang frames fit together?
When installing multiple wiring devices side by side, order frame-less mechanisms/covers and combine them under a single 2-gang, 3-gang, or 4-gang horizontal or vertical frame from the same product series.
Which backbox is required for drywall (plasterboard) walls?
Hollow plasterboard walls require drywall mounting boxes equipped with side clamping tabs that grip the board, whereas brick or concrete walls use standard masonry flush boxes set in plaster.