Switches & Sockets

Switches & Sockets for Every Space

Explore a wide range of switches and sockets to complete new installations or upgrade existing rooms with a coordinated look. From everyday plastic fittings to stylish decorative finishes and smart controls, find the right option for homes, offices and commercial projects.

Types of Switches & Sockets

Browse switches and sockets by finish, style and application to match your interior design and installation needs. Use these subcategories to narrow down your search and quickly find the products that best fit your project.

• Black Switches & Sockets: Provides a bold, modern look that works well in contemporary interiors and feature spaces.
• Brass Switches & Sockets: Offers a warm, traditional finish that complements classic decor and period properties.
• Brushed Switches & Sockets: Delivers a softer metallic appearance that helps reduce the visibility of everyday marks.
• Chrome Switches & Sockets: Creates a clean, reflective finish that pairs well with modern fittings and fixtures.
• Decorative Sockets & Switches: Used to add a design-led touch to living spaces, feature walls and coordinated room schemes.
• Fused Spur Sockets & Switches: Used to provide a dedicated connection point for fixed appliances on a ring or radial circuit.
• Outdoor Sockets & Switches: Designed to provide convenient power and control in gardens, driveways and other external areas.
• Plastic Switches & Sockets: Offers a clean, simple look that blends easily into most walls and everyday spaces.
• Polished Switches & Sockets: Provides a bright, reflective finish that can create a smart, high-impact detail in any room.
• Satin Switches & Sockets: Delivers a subtle sheen that bridges the gap between matt and high-gloss finishes.
• Screwless Sockets & Switches: Creates a smooth, uninterrupted faceplate that gives a neat, contemporary appearance on the wall.
• Sockets & Switches by Finishes: Helps narrow down options by grouping products according to colour and surface finish.
• Sockets & Switches by Ranges: Allows you to browse coordinated collections to keep a consistent look across your installation.
• Sockets & Switches by Types: Supports quick selection by organising products into functional types such as sockets, switches and control units.
• Stainless Steel Switches & Sockets: Offers a contemporary metallic appearance that pairs well with modern appliances and hardware.
• Flat Plate Switches & Sockets: Provides a slim profile on the wall for a discreet, streamlined finish.
• Metal Clad Sockets & Switches: Used in workspaces, garages and similar areas where a tougher enclosure is preferred.
• Smart Sockets & Switches: Supports more advanced control options for lighting and power as part of a connected setup.

Product Types and Ranges for Switches & Sockets

This table groups different styles of switches and sockets with commonly available ranges and finishes. Use it to compare aesthetic options and choose products that match the look and feel of each room.

Trusted Brands in Switches & Sockets

Explore a wide choice of switches, sockets and accessories from leading electrical manufacturers. Find the right styles and functions to complete domestic or commercial wiring projects confidently.

• Aico: Provides specialist control switches and alarm interface modules that integrate with life-safety systems, helping electricians add clearly labelled control points in circulation and escape areas.
• Ansell: Delivers smart controllers, indoor and outdoor wireless switches and accessories that help you integrate lighting and power control into modern residential and light commercial installations.
• Aurora: Offers dimmer modules, rotary dimmer plates and wireless controls, ideal for managing lighting levels and creating flexible control points across living spaces and working environments.
• BG Electrical: Covers decorative plates, outdoor weatherproof sockets, USB outlets and fan isolators, giving installers coordinated wiring accessories for both internal rooms and exposed external locations.
• Click: Provides extensive modular and decorative ranges including flat plate, grid, smart Zigbee sockets, USB outlets and metal clad accessories, helping match functional requirements with preferred finishes.
• Hager: Supplies wall switches, grid systems, dimmers, sockets and flat plate accessories designed to coordinate across projects, from standard moulded plates to brushed steel decorative wiring solutions.
• Hamilton: Focuses on premium decorative plates, outdoor IP-rated accessories and modular data outlets, helping designers and installers achieve coordinated, style-led switch and socket layouts throughout properties.
• Knightsbridge: Covers everything from white moulded and metal clad to flat plate and screwless designs, including USB charging, weatherproof units and dimmers for residential, commercial and light industrial schemes.
• MK: Provides well-known moulded, outdoor and metal clad accessories, plus grid and Euro data modules, supporting robust, clearly configured switch and socket installations across many building types.
• Schneider Electric: Offers outdoor enclosures, metal clad accessories and a variety of specialist switchgear, supporting applications where durable wiring accessories and protective housings are required in everyday use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a single and double socket?

A single socket provides one outlet for a plug, while a double socket offers two outlets on the same faceplate. Double sockets are common in living areas and kitchens for powering multiple appliances.

When should I use a fused connection unit instead of a socket?

Use a fused connection unit to hard-wire fixed equipment such as boilers, fans or towel rails. It provides local isolation and an appropriate fuse, rather than relying on a plug and socket connection.

What does 1 gang and 2 gang mean on switches and sockets?

Gang describes the number of individual switches or socket outlets on one plate. One gang controls a single circuit or provides one outlet, while two gang devices control two circuits or provide two outlets.

Can I replace my own switches and sockets?

Yes, in many cases you can like-for-like replace accessories if you are confident and isolate the supply correctly. For new circuits or more complex work, using a qualified electrician is strongly advised.

What is the benefit of USB or USB-C sockets?

USB and USB-C sockets let you charge phones, tablets and other devices directly from the wall without separate adaptors. They can free up plug outlets and help keep worktops or bedside areas clear.

Do I need special switches and sockets for outdoor use?

Yes, outdoor locations require weatherproof accessories with appropriate IP ratings and robust enclosures. These help protect connections from rain and dirt, and are designed for use in exposed environments.

What is the difference between a dimmer switch and a standard light switch?

A standard switch simply turns lights on or off. A dimmer switch allows you to vary light levels, provided the lamps are compatible with dimming and the dimmer's load range matches the connected lighting.

Why are some sockets marked as RCD protected?

RCD protected sockets incorporate residual current protection within the accessory. They are often used where additional protection is desirable, such as for outdoor equipment or portable tools.

What is a grid or modular switch system?

Grid systems use individual switch or function modules clipped into a shared plate. They allow custom combinations such as appliance switches, indicators and labelled controls in one neat assembly.

How do smart switches and sockets work?

Smart accessories typically connect via Wi-Fi, Zigbee or RF to a hub or app, enabling remote control, scheduling and integration with other smart home products using compatible platforms.

Need help choosing switches or sockets?

If you are unsure which switch, socket or wiring accessory is right for your project, our friendly team can help you narrow down the options. Call us on 01424 220384 for product advice, stock checks and ordering support.