Leviton Decora Rocker Switch Review: Worth the 9.4/10 Score?
A verified buyer on Amazon declared simply: “Best rocker switch I've ever used — smooth, quiet, feels quality,” giving the Leviton Decora Rocker Single-Pole AC Quiet Switch, Black a perfect score. Based on aggregated feedback, the switch earns an impressive 9.4/10, praised for its durability, elegant design, and effortless installation. But while its "AC Quiet" label lives up to the low-noise reputation, some wiring quirks and the absence of a wall plate in the box catch buyers off guard.
Quick Verdict: Yes, especially for homeowners seeking durable, modern-looking switches.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Smooth, quiet operation | Wall plate sold separately |
| Impact-resistant thermoplastic construction | Push-in terminals limited to #14 AWG solid copper |
| Quickwire push-in and side wiring options | Can confuse first-time installers on wire gauge compatibility |
| Modern low-profile design | Slightly higher cost than basic toggle switches |
| UL/CSA certification | Limited color options at some retailers |
| Full-rated capacity with multiple load types | Supply issues in certain regions |
| Compatible with Decora wall plates | Some reports of mismatched marketing claims on “single-pole” vs “3-way” references |
Claims vs Reality
Leviton markets the Decora switch as “convenient, quiet,” emphasizing full-rated performance with tungsten, fluorescent, and resistive loads. Digging deeper into user reports, the “quiet” claim is consistently validated. A Reddit user noted: “Flip feels solid, no rattle, no click echo — perfect for a living room where noise matters.”
The brand also touts “easy installation” via Quickwire push-in terminals and side wiring. While homeowners with basic electrical experience agree, others highlight a technical caveat: push-in terminals only accept #14 AWG solid copper wire. One Trustpilot review explained: “Had to swap to side screws because my wire gauge didn’t match the push-in — not hard, but took extra time.”
Finally, “complements every décor” is part of Leviton’s pitch. Feedback confirms the low-profile black switch looks premium, but a verified Stine Home buyer expressed mild frustration: “Looks fantastic when matched with a Decora plate, but wish both came in one pack so I didn’t have to hunt for the matching faceplate.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Smooth actuation and quiet operation dominate praise across Amazon, Reddit, and Trustpilot. A buyer on Amazon described it as “feels like a luxury switch in terms of touch — no wobble, no cheap plastic feel”. Homeowners remodeling older houses highlighted durability: impact-resistant thermoplastic with steel strap construction reassured them about longevity. Electricians consistently mention Quickwire as a time-saver for large projects. One Reddit poster shared: “Wired 12 in a row during a reno — saved about 10 minutes each just pushing the wire in.”
Aesthetics matter too; multiple platforms crow about its low-profile elegance. SupplyHouse notes it “flows with your walls keeping it from standing out to the eye,” which decorators appreciate. For residential upgrades aiming to modernize interiors without overwhelming them, this has proven appealing.
Common Complaints
A pattern emerged regarding compatibility confusion. While specs clearly limit Quickwire to #14 AWG solid copper, some buyers only discovered this mid-installation. One Trustpilot comment explained: “Packaging didn’t make wire restrictions obvious; had stranded wire so had to switch method.”
Another irritant is the exclusion of a wall plate in most sales. Reddit discussions point out that first-time DIYers may assume one is included. Product listings sometimes mention 3-way capabilities, but buyer experiences confirm the 5601-2E model is strictly single-pole — perhaps an error in reused descriptions online.
Distribution inconsistencies also frustrate users; Zoro and eBay listings show varying prices and availability, causing delays in bulk orders.
Divisive Features
The Quickwire push-in vs. side wiring debate polarizes electricians. Some hail it as efficient for standardized residential wiring, others distrust push-ins entirely, preferring screw terminals for perceived reliability. A Reddit electrician commented: “Push-ins are fine for copper #14; side screw gives me control and I know the connection is tight.”
Color choice shows another split — black blends into modern interiors, but some users note it can be too stark for lighter walls without a matching plate.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot data suggests no systemic scam concerns. The product’s UL and CSA certifications, along with a 2-year limited warranty, reassure buyers. One long-term Reddit report, six months after installation, confirmed: “Switch still flips like day one — no sticking, no dust ingress despite heavy kitchen use.”
Concerns are mostly about listing clarity (single-pole vs 3-way variant) rather than product reliability. Electrical pros on Quora underscore that Leviton’s track record in residential-grade products has historically been strong, citing clean interior construction and consistent QC.
Alternatives
A few retailers’ cross-listings mention the Leviton Decora Plus series for commercial-grade use. These alternatives offer higher amperage (20A) and illuminated handles, suited for commercial spaces. While more robust, they cost more and may be overkill for typical home applications. Some DIYers prefer basic toggle switches for lower cost, but acknowledge the Decora’s design upgrade justifies paying slightly more.
Price & Value
Prices swing dramatically across platforms: SupplyHouse lists at $2.46, Stine Home at $2.79, Zoro at $8.15, and eBay can range up to $11.49 for specialty dual rocker variants. Bulk buys reduce per-unit costs significantly, as evidenced by eBay’s 10-pack listing at $109.99.
For resale or rental property upgrades, community consensus is that the aesthetic and perceived quality can subtly boost interior appeal, making it a modest yet effective investment. The tip from Reddit pros: buy in bulk directly from electrical supply outlets to avoid retail markup.
FAQ
Q: Does this switch come with a wall plate?
A: No. Feedback across Reddit and retailer listings confirms the 5601-2E is sold without a wall plate, which must be purchased separately.
Q: Can I use stranded wire with the Quickwire push-in terminals?
A: No. Quickwire push-ins accept only #14 AWG solid copper wire. Stranded wires require side screw terminals.
Q: Is this a single-pole or 3-way switch?
A: The 5601-2E is strictly single-pole. Some listings reference 3-way models, but that’s a different product code.
Q: What loads can it handle?
A: Full-rated current capacity for tungsten, fluorescent, resistive loads; motor capacity is 80% of the switch rating.
Q: Is it suitable for commercial use?
A: While durable, it’s residential grade. For commercial applications, Leviton’s Decora Plus series offers enhanced specs.
Final Verdict: Buy if you are a homeowner or contractor upgrading to modern, quiet switches in residential spaces and have compatible wiring. Avoid if you expect push-in support for non-#14 AWG solid copper or if inclusion of the wall plate is critical. Pro tip from community: Pair purchases with matching Decora plates for best aesthetics and source from trade suppliers for better pricing.
