Thermoplastic / Plastic Slide Switches
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
Thermoplastic or plastic slide switches are devices used to open or close an electrical circuit by sliding a switch mechanism. They typically feature a small, flat lever or knob that can be moved back and forth to connect or disconnect the circuit. These switches are commonly used in various electronic devices to control the flow of electricity.
Working Principle
Slide switches operate by moving a slider that makes or breaks contact with electrical terminals. The slider is connected to a conductive strip that bridges the gap between two or more terminals, allowing current to flow when the switch is in the "on" position. This simple mechanism makes slide switches reliable and easy to use. They are particularly useful in applications where a straightforward, manual control of electrical circuits is needed.
Applications
Thermoplastic slide switches are used in a wide range of applications. They are commonly found in consumer electronics such as radios, flashlights, and toys, where they serve as power switches. In industrial settings, they can be used in control panels to manage machinery operations. Additionally, they are used in automotive applications for controlling various functions like window operations and lighting systems.
Advantages over other Slide Switches
Thermoplastic slide switches offer several advantages over other types of slide switches. They are lightweight and cost-effective due to the use of plastic materials. This makes them suitable for applications where weight and cost are critical factors. Additionally, the plastic construction provides good insulation properties, reducing the risk of electrical shorts.
Limitations
One limitation of thermoplastic slide switches is their durability. Plastic materials may not withstand high temperatures or mechanical stress as well as metal counterparts, which can lead to wear and tear over time. This makes them less suitable for heavy-duty applications or environments with extreme conditions.
Considerations
When selecting thermoplastic slide switches, it is important to consider factors such as initial costs, operating expenses, and durability. While they are generally more affordable than metal switches, their lifespan may be shorter, leading to potential replacement and maintenance costs. Additionally, their accuracy in maintaining consistent electrical contact can be affected by wear, so regular inspection and maintenance may be necessary to ensure reliable operation.
from Interpower
Current Rating: 10/5A. Voltage Rating: 125/250VAC. Temperature Rating: Ambient 85 ºC. Electrical Life: 10000 cycles. Mechanical Life: 10000 cycles. Insulation Resistance: >100 Mega-Ohms. Internal Resistance: <100mOhms. Dielectric Strength: 3000VAC. Solder Tabs: 6/2.8mm. Terminal Material:... [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 5 to 10
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT)
- AC Voltage Rating: 125 to 250
from OTTO Controls
3-position center OFF with momentary or maintained switch action in any combination. Single and double pole, double throw configurations. [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic; Metal
- Mechanical Life: 100000
from ITW Switches USA
MINI MIKE MINIATURE SLIDE SWITCHES. This rugged, long life miniature slide switch is ideal for applications where exceptional quality and reliability are needed. Available in SPDT and DPDT configurations, these gold contact slide switches come with PC terminals. KEY FEATURES: • SPDT and DPDT... [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT)
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Variety of actuators and terminations. Panel mount tabs available. Epoxy terminal seal —compatible with bottom-wash cleaning. RoHS compliant. Typical Applications. Test & measurement equipment. Telecommunications. Computer & peripherals [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained (optional feature); Three Position (Center-OFF) (optional feature); Three Position (No Center-OFF) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Momentary Switch Function: Momentary (optional feature); Three Position Momentary (Center NEUTRAL) (optional feature)
from Excel Cell Electronic USA Corp.
Low contact resistance, long mechanical life, suitable for signal switching [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill Tact Switches are momentary pushbuttons designed for cost-effective user interface switching. They are mounted to a printed circuit board and typically actuated by a decorative keycap. The ultraminiature and lightweight structure of these tact switches make them suitable for high density... [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON/OFF; Three Position (Center-OFF)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT); Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT)
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP N.O./N.C. DPST 1 Raised Slide 0.15A 30VDC Gull Wing 2000Cycles/SwitchCycles 2.54mm SMD Tube [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Double Pole, Single Throw (DPST)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Current Rating: 0.1500
from ITW Switches USA
DOUBLE POLE LINE VOLTAGE SELECTOR SWITCHES. This rugged fully enclosed housing is built for tough applications. The positive detect action, status indication and variety of contact configurations make this series ideal for a variety of needs. KEY FEATURES: • Status indication: variety of... [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT)
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Low profile. Single & double pole models. Double & triple throw models. RoHS compliant. Typical Applications. Computer peripherals & network products. Telecommunication products. Test & measurement equipment [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON / ON (Low / High) (optional feature); Three Position (No Center-OFF) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT) (optional feature); Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT) (optional feature); DP3T
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill Tact Switches are momentary pushbuttons designed for cost-effective user interface switching. They are mounted to a printed circuit board and typically actuated by a decorative keycap. The ultraminiature and lightweight structure of these tact switches make them suitable for high density... [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON/OFF; Three Position (Center-OFF)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT)
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP OFF ON 3PST 1 Raised Slide 0.15A 30VDC PC Pins 2000Cycles/SwitchCycles 2.54mm Thru-Hole Tube [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Current Rating: 0.1500
from ITW Switches USA
COMMERCIAL SLIDE SWITCH. This small slide switch is ideal for a variety of applications where long life and reliability is required. With the compact design the switch can carry loads up to 6 amps. KEY FEATURES: • Compact space saver. • Simple trouble-free design. • Long life. •... [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT)
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Positive detent. Enclosed housing. Maintained and momentary functions. PC and panel mounting. RoHS compliant. Typical Applications. Communications equipment. Lighting devices [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained (optional feature); ON/OFF (optional feature); ON / ON (Low / High) (optional feature); Three Position (Center-OFF) (optional feature); Three Position (No Center-OFF) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Flush Handle (optional feature); Raised Handle (optional feature)
- Momentary Switch Function: Momentary (optional feature); Normally Open (NO) (optional feature); Normally Closed (NC) (optional feature); Three Position Momentary (Center OFF) (optional feature); Three Position Momentary (Center NEUTRAL) (optional feature)
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP OFF ON DPST 4 Raised Slide 0.05A 24VDC PC Pins 2.54mm Thru-Hole Tube [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Double Pole, Single Throw (DPST)
from C&K Components
Typical Applications. Test & measurement equipment. Computer peripherals & network products. Consumer products [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON / ON (Low / High) (optional feature); Three Position (No Center-OFF) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT) (optional feature); Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT) (optional feature); SP3T, DP3T
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP OFF ON SPDT 2 Raised Slide 0.05A 24VDC PC Pins 2.54mm Thru-Hole Tube [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT)
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. 6 to 11 AMPS available. Easy assembly —Snap-in mounting. Contamination resistant —extended actuator. Positive detent. RoHS compliant. Typical Applications. Small appliances. Outdoor appliances. Portable tools [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON/OFF (optional feature); ON / ON (Low / High) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT) (optional feature); Double Pole, Single Throw (DPST) (optional feature); Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT) (optional feature)
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP OFF ON SPST 2 Raised Slide 0.1A 24VDC Gull Wing 2.54mm SMD Tube [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Ratings up to 10 AMPS. Snap-in panel and PC mounting. Actuators with screwdriver slot. Quick connect terminals available. RoHS compliant. Typical Applications. Appliances [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON / ON (Low / High)
- Actuator Type: Flush Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST) (optional feature); Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT) (optional feature); Double Pole, Single Throw (DPST) (optional feature); Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT) (optional feature)
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP OFF ON SPST 2 Raised Slide 0.1A 24VDC PC Pins 2.54mm Thru-Hole [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Process compatible —internal o-ring and epoxy base seal. Thru-hole & surface mount models. Reliable contact design ensures long electrical life. Robust actuator for easy actuation. RoHS compliant. Typical Applications. Computer peripherals & network products. Test... [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; Three Position (Center-OFF) (optional feature); Three Position (No Center-OFF) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT) (optional feature); Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT) (optional feature)
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP OFF ON SPST 3 Raised Slide 0.05A 24VDC PC Pins 2.54mm Thru-Hole Tube [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Ultraminiature design saves PCB space. Sealed construction, process compatible with most PCB wash processes. Available in thru-hole and surface mount. Long life contact design. RoHS compliant. Typical Applications. Computer peripherals & network products. Test &... [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON/OFF (optional feature); ON / ON (Low / High) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST) (optional feature); Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT) (optional feature)
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP OFF ON SPST 4 Extended Slide 0.1A 24VDC PC Pins 2.54mm Thru-Hole Tube [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- Maintained Switch Function: ON/OFF
- Current Rating: 1
from C&K Components
Typical Applications. Portable tools. Small appliances. Floor care products [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained (optional feature); ON/OFF (optional feature); ON / ON (Low / High) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Momentary Switch Function: Momentary (optional feature); Normally Open (NO) (optional feature); Normally Closed (NC) (optional feature)
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP OFF ON SPST 4 Flush Slide 0.025A 24VDC PC Pins 2.54mm Thru-Hole [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Flush Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. RoHS compliant and meets all requirements of RoHS directive 2002/95EC. Low profile. SPDT momentary action. Long electrical and mechanical life. Typical Applications. On/Off touch screens. Handheld games. Remote controls. Instrumentation [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Momentary Switch Function: Momentary (optional feature); Normally Closed (NC)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT)
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP OFF ON SPST 4 Flush Slide 0.1A 24VDC Gull Wing 2.54mm SMD T/R [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Flush Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Positive detent. Low profile. IR reflow to 260 º solder profile. Surface and thru hole mounting. SPDT, DPDT, DP3T models. RoHS compliant. Typical Applications. Telecommunication products. Computer peripherals. Thermostat select switch. Instrumentations [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON/OFF (optional feature); ON / ON (Low / High) (optional feature); Three Position (Center-OFF) (optional feature); Three Position (No Center-OFF) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT) (optional feature); Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT) (optional feature); DP3T
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP OFF ON SPST 4 Recessed Slide 0.1A 24VDC Gull Wing 1000Cycle 2.54mm SMD Tube [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- Maintained Switch Function: ON/OFF
- Current Rating: 0.0250
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. RoHS compliant and meets all requirements of RoHS directive 2002/95EC. Positive detent. Low profile. IR reflow to 260 º solder profile. Surface and thru hole mounting. Maintained and momentary functions. SPDT, SP3T models. Typical Applications. Telecommunication products. [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained (optional feature); Three Position (Center-OFF) (optional feature); Three Position (No Center-OFF) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Momentary Switch Function: Momentary (optional feature); Three Position Momentary (Center OFF) (optional feature); Three Position Momentary (Center NEUTRAL) (optional feature)
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP OFF ON SPST 6 Flush Slide 0.1A 24VDC PC Pins 2.54mm Thru-Hole [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: ON/OFF
- Actuator Type: Flush Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Reliable contact design ensures long electrical life. Ratings up to 3 AMPS. Epoxy terminal-seal compatible with bottom wash cleaning. RoHS compliant. Typical Applications. Test & measurement equipment. Computers & peripherals. Telecommunications & networking equipment [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; Three Position (Center-OFF) (optional feature); Three Position (No Center-OFF) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST) (optional feature); Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT) (optional feature)
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP ON OFF SPST 2 Recessed Slide 0.1A 30VDC Gull Wing 2000Cycles/SwitchCycles 2.54mm SMD T/R [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.0250
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 30
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Ultra-miniature surface mount. Low profile. SPDT & SP3T models. RoHS compliant. Typical Applications. Computer peripherals & network products. Telecommunication products. Test & measurement equipment [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Maintained Switch Function: Maintained; ON / ON (Low / High) (optional feature); Three Position (No Center-OFF) (optional feature)
- Actuator Type: Raised Handle
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT) (optional feature); SP3T
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP ON OFF SPST 8 Recessed Slide 0.025A 24VDC Gull Wing 1000Cycles 1.27mm SMD T/R [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.0250
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 24
from Utmel Electronic Limited
Switch DIP ON OFF SPST 8 Slide 0.15A 30VDC PC Pins 2000Cycles/SwitchCycles 2.54mm Thru-Hole [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.1500
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 30
from Utmel Electronic Limited
SWITCH SLIDE DIP SPST 100MA 24V [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.1000
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 24
from Utmel Electronic Limited
SWITCH SLIDE DIP SPST 10MA 20V [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.0100
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 20
from Utmel Electronic Limited
SWITCH SLIDE DIP SPST 150MA 30V [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.1500
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 30
from Utmel Electronic Limited
SWITCH SLIDE DIP SPST 150MA 30V [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.1500
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 30
from Utmel Electronic Limited
SWITCH SLIDE DIP SPST 150MA 30V [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.1500
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 30
from Utmel Electronic Limited
SWITCH SLIDE DIP SPST 25MA 24V [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.0250
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 24
from Utmel Electronic Limited
SWITCH SLIDE DIP SPST 25MA 24V [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.0250
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 24
from Utmel Electronic Limited
SWITCH SLIDE DIP SPST 25MA 24V [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.0250
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 30
from Utmel Electronic Limited
SWITCH SLIDE DIP SPST 25MA 24V [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.0250
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 30
from Utmel Electronic Limited
SWITCH SLIDE DIP SPST 25MA 24V [See More]
- Base Material: Plastic
- Current Rating: 0.0250
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- DC Voltage Rating: 24