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Technology has advanced in every sphere of life, especially when it comes to home appliances. Have you ever gone upstairs after being in your basement for a while but forgot to turn the lights off? If your home has a traditional mode of switching, then you probably had to go all the way down to turn it off. However, making use of our keenly reviewed best 3-way switches, you won’t have to make a detour.
3-way switches allow you to control a light from two varying locations. Take the above-mentioned example. If you have this switch set installed, there will be two switches, one at the entrance and one at the basement exit. Both of these can turn on and off the same light.
Compare The Best 3-Way Switch
Kasa Smart 3-Way Switch
– Best Overall
Kasa Smart 3-way switch technology is home to a wide range of positive feedback because of its competence and durability. It has a way of making things easier for you from the very beginning. You do not need to go through the hassle of figuring out complex switch wiring or complicated configurations. The Kasa app will guide you in the simplest way to install the switches without breaking a bone.
In addition to a convenient installation process, it can also be managed with the help of your voice, which means that it is compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You can control the lights of your home even when lying in your room and watching your favorite Netflix show.
Pros
- Allows you to control all the lights from a single app
- It comes with a step-by-step installation guide
- Offers scheduling and timers to set up on/off timings at different hours
Cons
- Works in only one position
CLOUDY BAY 3-Way Switch
– Runner Up
Are you looking for a 3-way switch that works like magic? Cloud Bay 3-way switch is one such power connection that can turn your dark hallway into a bright one. It comes with slide control compatibility, which means if Up is Off, then Down is On, and vice versa. From 600W incandescent to 150W dimmable LED/CFL, this particular power button works perfectly fine with a wide range of lights.
In addition to its amazing functionality, the Cloud Bay power switch is also aesthetically pleasing. It comes with a decorative wall plate that goes well with almost all types of interior. The glowing white shade adds a bonus to its overall plus points. Also, you won’t need any additional screws to fasten the wall plate.
Pros
- Compatible with most household lighting
- Untroublesome to control manually
- This switch set can easily fit in any cover plate
Cons
- It is not compatible with smart lights
GE 3-Way Switch
– Honorable Mention
GE grounding 3-way switch has managed to create a remarkable reputation in the world of electric appliances due to its extraordinary services. You can conveniently use it to replace other power connections for lights and ceiling fans. The installation process is pretty simple, and you won’t need a professional to do it. All you have to do is follow the instructions that come with it, and your home will lighten up within minutes.
What makes this piece of art so amazing is its ability to stand the test of time without creating any problems for you midway. With its Rocker switch style, Wall Mount profile, and SPDT terminal, the GE 3-way switch can bring radiance to your home and stay by your side for a long time.
Pros
- Has an appealing outlook
- Easy to install
- Solid and sturdy
Cons
- The sound produced by clicking on/off might annoy some people
Legrand 3–Way Switch
– Also Consider
Legrand 3-way switch is one of the best rocker buttons available in the market. In a rocker switch, when you press one side, the other one raises and vice versa. This power control mode is present in almost all kinds of households which adds a sense of familiarity to this 3-way switch and makes it easy to control. What makes it worth your investment is the assurance of longevity that it comes with. Thermoplastic construction provides it with the required strength and power it needs for extended life.
Plus, it comes with all those features that complement today’s modern homes. From automation controls to decorative and screwless wall plates, it has everything you have been looking for so far.
Pros
- Allows easy installation
- It goes well with screwless wall plates
Cons
- The edges of the switch are sharp
Lutron 3-Way Switch
Lutron switch is yet another fantastic warrior with the sole purpose of protecting your home from the darkness. If you are looking for a 3-way power button that can help you manage the lights with ease and bring some sophistication to your house, then this switch is the one. With its large paddle and exquisite design, it can control the fans and lights of your home with ease. You may be surprised to know, but Lutron can control both your fan and light simultaneously as it works with the single pole application.
Furthermore, you can customize each switch according to the look of your room because of the availability of multiple shades. Plus, the installation process does not require you to run extra errands as everything is smooth and simple.
Pros
- Stylish design
- Compatible with most light fixtures
- Best replacement for your old switches
Cons
- The back wiring could break the switch
Buying Guide for the Best 3-Way Switches
It’s time to embrace the advanced technology and modify your home with the best 3-way switches.
What Things Do You Need To Keep In Mind While Buying the Best 3-Way Switches?
Although you do not have to be an electrician or a professional to buy switches, choosing the right one for your home is not easy. If you keep the following points in mind, you may be able to find the best 3-way switches within minutes.
Durable material
The first thing that you need to keep in mind before choosing a 3-way switch is the material of which it is made. You can choose it according to the aesthetic appeal of your house and the one that goes well with the overall look of your humble abode. Many materials, including plastic, wooden, porcelain, metal, glass, and many others, are used to make switches.
Installation guide
Installing a switch at your home can become tiresome if you are not a pro at it. That is why one thing you need to make sure of is that there should be an installation guide with the product. So, even if you get confused halfway, you can always take help from the directory and install the switch without creating any trouble.
Smart-control system
Another thing that you can consider while choosing the best 3-way switch for your home is a smart control system. In this type of system, you can control your light with your voice by using Amazon Alexa or Google assistant. Plus, if the switch comes with an app, you can even manage it from there.
What’s So Special About 3-Way Switches?
A 3-way switch can save you from many troubles with the help of its extraordinary features. They are not only the latest trends but are also highly effective when it comes to their performance.
No more extra trips
As the 3-way switch has two buttons that control a single light fixture, it comes in handy at places like stairways, hallways, and basements. You can turn the light on while coming down the hallway and turn it off when you reach downstairs. No need to make extra trips to go all the way up to turn the light on or off. It is because switches will be present both at the entrance and the exit.
Saves time
Another benefit of using a 3-way switch is that it saves your time. If you are in a hurry to leave for your job, you do not have to go from corner to corner to turn off the lights.
Voice commands
To make things easier, you do not have to use your hands to turn the lights on or off. With the help of Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, you can control them with your voice.
Imagine it’s time for bed, and you are already snuggled inside your quilt, but you have forgotten to turn off the lights. Still, there is no frown upon your forehead because you know you don’t need to get up. Just ask Alexa or Google Assistant to turn off the lights, and the deed will be done within seconds.
What Are the Different Parts of 3-Way Switches?
The three-way switches are generally found in pairs and used in stairways, garages, and rooms with two entries. Their mechanism is entirely different from the standard controls. A 3-way switch consists of four varying screw terminals.
- Ground Screw: There is a green screw connected to the metal strap specifically for the ground wire.
- Traveler Screws: Furthermore, it has two light brass-shaded screws, which are known as traveler screws. Two varying routes for power to travel are provided from one switch to the other when connecting travel wires to these screws.
- Common Terminal: The third screw is the common terminal and is relatively darker in the shade. This screw performs one of the two functions. It is either attached to the black hot wire that reaches the light fixture or accepts the arriving black wire from the electric source.
How To Identify a 3-Way Switch?
Identifying a 3-way switch among so many others is not a hard nut to crack. There is an apparent difference between a 3-way circuit and the other ones.
- No on/off marking: The easiest way to identify a 3-way switch is to look at the toggle for on and off markings. If it is a three-way switch, there will be none of them.
- Screw terminals: Another factor that can help you identify this switch are the screw terminals. 3-way switches have three terminals and a ground screw.
Final Words
A 3-way switch is an effective and wise decision to bring advancement to your home. It can save you from going up and down several times. Plus, they also save your precious time. The smart home feature can help you control the lights with the help of your voice as well.
Furthermore, a 3-way switch consists of four terminals, including ground, travelers, and common. Each of these performs specific functions. Moving on, in case you want to buy this switch, there are some essential points that you must take into consideration as they will help you make a wise choice. These points include the material used in making the switches, the presence of an installation guide, and a smart control feature.
Our keenly reviewed list of the best 3-way switches has multiple products that can brighten up your home for a long time and has all the essential features that make them worthy of your investment.
3-Way Switch FAQ
Q: Do both switches need to be 3-way?
A: Yes, both switches used in a 3-way connection should be 3-way if you want to control the lights from two different places.
Q: Are all 3-way switches compatible with Amazon Alexa?
A: No, not all 3-way switches are compatible with Alexa.
Q: What is the difference between a 3-way switch and a 4-way switch?
A: In a 3-way switch, you can manage the lights from two different locations. On the other hand, you can control the light from three varying places using a 4-way switch.
