
The one-way switch connects or breaks the circuit to operate a specific electrical device, while the two-way switch doesn’t work as that two-terminal connects, and one of three terminals is left broken. To operate every electrical device, there’s a need for a switch that completes the circuit to allow current to flow through it, thereby letting the electrical device work. Compared to a two-way switch, the one-way switch is more used. One of the types of switches is the one-way switches and two-way switches. There are many types of switches available. Main Differences Between One-Way Switch and Two-Way Switch There’s no consistency in the on and off position. Lastly, the installation of a two-way switch is much more complicated than a one-way switch and consumes a lot of time. Therefore, many people prefer a two-way switch to operate light and ceiling fans as it’s more convenient.Īnother specialization of a two-way switch, its on and off terminal, is not specific because it depends on the position of a two-way switch. In addition to that, it can be accessed from two separate locations. However, it is preferable for large rooms, long corridors, and long stairways. One of the terminals needs to be broken to work for specific electrical devices.Ĭoming to the usage of a two-way switch, it is not commonly used. The three terminals cannot be connected at the same time. When the switch is on, the circuit is complete, and the current flows through it. It connects or breaks a circuit with the use of two terminals. What is One-Way Switch?Ī one-way switch is commonly used in every household. A two-way switch is installed with complications and consumes a lot of time. Installation and time A one-way switch can be installed without any hassle in less time. A two-way switch is accessed from two separate locations. Access A one-way switch can be accessed from a single location only. Since it depends on the orientation of the switch.
A two-way switch does not have a specific ON and OFF position.
On and off position A one-way switch has a defined on and off position. A two-way switch is also known as a double-pole switch. Known A one-way switch is also known as a single-pole switch. Number of contacts A one-way switch has two contacts A two-way switch has three contacts. A two-way connects two terminals, and one of the three terminals is left broken to operate the electrical device. Comparison Table Parameters of Comparison One-way switch Two-way switch Principle of work A one-way switch connects or breaks a circuit to operate electrical devices.
When one of the terminals is connected with another, the third terminal’s connection is broken. However, the working differs as one of the terminals can be connected to either one of the three terminals.īut it can’t be connected to both terminals at a time. A two-way switch is a combination of two one-way switches.