White plastic light switches may be functional and fit the bill if you don’t want to spend a lot, but for less than you might think, you can choose styles that will elevate your interior to new levels. It's a small, simple upgrade that can really make a difference.
After all, it makes no sense to spend ages planning the perfect lighting design for your home, only to be let down by a poor choice of switches. And its not just the aesthetics that can make a difference. Introducing smart home tech will give you greater control too.
In this guide to the best light switches, 'we've selected a range of switches for all rooms in the home ranging from sleek, contemporary styles to smart home options, to help you get exactly what you need.
The quick list
Here we've put together a handy overview of the different light switches found in this buying guide, along with quick links that allow to you skip down the page to get a more detailed review of the particular product you like the look of.
A stylish yet unobtrusive brushed steel light switch, offering wide compatibility and good value, although the short screws supplied may complicate installation and require sturdier replacements for easier fitting.
The Yagusmart Smart Wall Light Switch enables voice, app, and manual control, remote access for security, timer functions, and smart assistant compatibility, although setup can be more complex than standard switches.
A classic yet on-trend antique brass light switch with timeless style and good value. Its stylish good looks belies its reasonable price tag, too. Though it is slightly more fiddly to fit than other options.
A slim, modern chrome light switch ideal for tight spaces, offering practical design, sturdy feel, stylish looks, and matching range options, although it's slightly pricier than basic plastic alternatives.
The Trendi Rocker Tactile Light Switch offers bold colours, stylish chrome accents, multiple configurations, and a striking design for statement interiors, but it costs more than conventional light switches.
A solid brass vintage-style bathroom/toilet light switch handle for pull cord lights. Finished in antique-aged copper finish, lacquered so it won't tarnish and the word PULL is integrated into the body of the handle.
Best light switch for modern homes
The ideal type of light switch for anyone looking for something unobtrusive, yet a little classier than a plain white plastic light switch.
The BG Nexus NBS Range Brushed Steel Switch is useful in that it is part of a really wide range of gang and circuit types making it easy to find matching items to ensure a streamlined interior scheme – plus the price tag is pretty reasonable too.
On the downside, although the switch is fairly straightforward to fit, the screws supplied are a little on the short side, which could make fitting tricky and may mean investing in some sturdier, longer screws to get the job done quickly.
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Best smart light switch
The idea of smart light switches is to make life a little easier and to tie in with other smart home gadgets – and the Yagusmart Smart Wall Light Switch does just that.
This smart light switch has the advantage of making voice control possible, but it can also be controlled manually or via the mobile app from anywhere – meaning you can control the lights even when you are not at home, making it a great smart home security feature.
The switch is compatible with Amazon Alexa, IFTTT and Google Home and also has a timer function.
On the downside, the switch can prove a little more complex to set up than a conventional light switch, although there is plenty of online help available.
Best traditional light switch
The Knightsbridge Square Edge Antique Brass light switch is ideal for anyone looking for a classic-style fitting that is unlikely to date any time soon – although despite its more traditional appearance and toggle switch, the warm brass finish is actually very much on-trend right now. Its stylish good looks belies its reasonable price tag too.
On the downside, it is a little more fiddly to fit than some of the other switches featured.
Best slimline light switch
This light switch is the ideal solution for anyone wondering how to fit a standard-sized light switch into a small spot – such as between a doorway and wall or in a tight space. The narrow design of this modern-looking chrome light switch is not only practical, but also looks great, and its chunky rocker switch has a reassuringly sturdy feel.
The switch has been designed as part of a co-ordinating range of fittings, so even where space isn't an issue, matching products are available.
On the downside, it is a little pricier than some other models out there – although it beats some of the cheap-looking plastic versions hands down.
Best statement light switch
Fancy turning your light switches into a talking point? Look no further than the Rocker Tactile Light Switch from Trendi Switch.
The navy colour looks great with the chrome switches, but the switch is also available in a host of other shades, including hot pink and forest green, making it perfect for a contemporary home.
Not only will these switches allow you to make a real statement, and to colour co-ordinate with other features in a space, they are also available in a range of configurations.
Of course, on the downside, they are a little pricier than some of the more conventional light switches out there.
Best bathroom pull switch
If you want to add a touch of vintage or Victorian style to your traditional bathroom ideas, this solid brass pull handle, finished in aged copper lacquer, is a top choice. The finish blends with black to create a worn, used effect, and the word PULL is inset into the 75mm handle.
A weighty handle, it is built to last and add a touch of elegance to a bathroom. The cord passes through the middle of the handle, allowing you to tie a knot at the desired length, with a neat recess at the bottom to hide the knot and preserve its aesthetic.
FAQ
Do you need an electrician to change a light switch?
You can trust Homebuilding & Renovating. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and materials in order to help you choose the best for your home and garden. Find out more about how we test.
So, you've found the best light switches for you and now you need to fit them. For most competent DIYers there will be no need to call an electrician to fit or swap a new light switch, although there will always be exceptions.
You need to be aware that you will need an electrician to install a new electrical circuit, as might be the case if you are installing a light in a new location. It is also advisable to call in a professional electrician if you are changing the electrics in 'high-risk' areas, for instance when upgrading your bathroom lighting.
How we test
Here at Homebuilding & Renovating, we like to get our hands dirty and trial as many products as possible, but in the instances where we aren’t able to, such as with these best light switch recommendations, we leave no stone unturned to provide you with the crucial information you need to know before buying.
Our team is passionate about DIY and home improvement (which probably won’t be a surprise) so we already have knowledge about how to assess each light switch,
Moreover, we’ve taken user reviews into account when compiling this guide. There’s a lot to consider when choosing the best light switches, so we weigh the pros and cons of each model to help you feel confident in selecting the right products for your home.
To make sure your new light switches are able to function as they should, be sure to check out these lighting design mistakes before you start. And, if choosing the new lighting for your self build or renovation feels like a job the professionals, find out if hiring a lighting designer could be the answer to your needs.
