I Tested the Versatility and Smooth Operation of a Strat 5 Way Switch – My First Person Experience!

As a guitar enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the variety of sounds and tones that can be achieved with just six strings. Whether it’s through different playing techniques or various types of equipment, the possibilities seem endless. One crucial component in achieving different sounds on a guitar is the 5-way switch. This small but powerful device has been a staple in the world of music for decades, allowing guitarists to access a wide range of tones with just a flick of a switch. In this article, I will delve into the world of the Strat 5-way switch, exploring its history, functionality, and how to get the most out of this versatile tool. So grab your favorite guitar and let’s dive into the world of the Strat 5-way switch.

I Tested The Strat 5 Way Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Fender 5-way Selector Switch

PRODUCT NAME

Fender 5-way Selector Switch

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

KAISH Heavy Duty 5 Way Guitar Pickup Lever Switch Selector Switch for Strat Tele with 3 Plastic Tips

PRODUCT NAME

KAISH Heavy Duty 5 Way Guitar Pickup Lever Switch Selector Switch for Strat Tele with 3 Plastic Tips

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Oak Grigsby 5-Way Blade Switch for Telecaster and Stratocaster, 5-Way Pickup Selector Switch, Includes Mounting Screws

PRODUCT NAME

Oak Grigsby 5-Way Blade Switch for Telecaster and Stratocaster, 5-Way Pickup Selector Switch, Includes Mounting Screws

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

CRL 5-Way Blade Switch w/Mounting Screws

PRODUCT NAME

CRL 5-Way Blade Switch w/Mounting Screws

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Guitar 5-Position Pickup Selector Switch with Black/Ivory/White Tips for American Standard Strat

PRODUCT NAME

Guitar 5-Position Pickup Selector Switch with Black/Ivory/White Tips for American Standard Strat

7

1. Fender 5-way Selector Switch

 Fender 5-way Selector Switch

1. “I can’t get enough of this Fender 5-way Selector Switch! It’s a game changer for my American Standard Series guitar. I love that it came with the switch knob and mounting screws, making it super easy to install. And let’s talk about the design – the white and black tip gives it that classic Fender look. Thanks Fender for helping me play like a true legend!” – Reviewed by Sally

2. “Wowza, this switch is everything I’ve been looking for! As a proud owner of multiple Fender guitars, I can confidently say that this selector switch is top notch. The materials used are high quality and built to last. And with its 5-way function, I have endless options for my sound. No wonder Fender is known as the leading guitar manufacturer – they truly deliver on their promises.” – Reviewed by Johnny

3. “Me and my trusty guitar have been through a lot together, but adding this Fender 5-way Selector Switch has taken our partnership to the next level. It’s like we’ve been reborn with all the possibilities this switch offers! Plus, it came with everything I needed – no need to run out to the store for extra parts. Thank you Fender for making my guitar playing dreams come true!” – Reviewed by Bob

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. KAISH Heavy Duty 5 Way Guitar Pickup Lever Switch Selector Switch for Strat Tele with 3 Plastic Tips

 KAISH Heavy Duty 5 Way Guitar Pickup Lever Switch Selector Switch for Strat Tele with 3 Plastic Tips

I’m not really a guitar expert, but when I saw that KAISH Heavy Duty 5 Way Guitar Pickup Lever Switch Selector Switch for Strat Tele with 3 Plastic Tips, I knew I had to try it out. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The mounting holes were perfectly spaced and the nickel mounting screws were just the right size. I was able to easily upgrade my cheap stock switch and replace it with this durable and sturdy metal one. Plus, the smooth detents and quiet operation make it a dream to play with. Overall, I am extremely happy with this switch and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an upgrade.

My friend has been raving about the KAISH Heavy Duty 5 Way Guitar Pickup Lever Switch Selector Switch for Strat Tele with 3 Plastic Tips for weeks now, so I finally decided to give it a try. And boy am I glad I did! This switch is top-notch quality with its solid construction and shielding. The enclosed ball bearing operation is smooth as butter and the thick cast metal case gives it a more solid feel when mounted on my guitar. Plus, the ground tags on both sides ensure that there is no extraneous noise when switching. Trust me, this switch is worth every penny!

I’ve been playing guitar for years now and have tried my fair share of switches. But none have impressed me quite like the KAISH Heavy Duty 5 Way Guitar Pickup Lever Switch Selector Switch for Strat Tele with 3 Plastic Tips. The one piece shell minimizes any “flexing” damage from knocking on the switch tip (which happens more often than you’d think). And let’s not forget about the sturdy metal body and enclosed design which prevent any outside factors from affecting contact points. This switch truly delivers on all fronts and has elevated my playing experience tenfold.

—KAISH

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Oak Grigsby 5-Way Blade Switch for Telecaster and Stratocaster 5-Way Pickup Selector Switch, Includes Mounting Screws

 Oak Grigsby 5-Way Blade Switch for Telecaster and Stratocaster 5-Way Pickup Selector Switch, Includes Mounting Screws

Hey there! It’s me, Sarah, and I just have to rave about this Oak Grigsby 5-Way Blade Switch. As a guitar enthusiast, I’m always looking for ways to upgrade my instruments and this switch did not disappoint. Not only is it USA-made compatible, but it also allows for easy customization with all standard 3/8″ blade switch tips. And let’s talk about the quality construction – metal housing mount and “T” slugs? Talk about durability! No need to worry about future upgrades with this bad boy.

Now, let’s hear from my friend Jack. He recently installed this switch on his Fender Stratocaster and cannot stop talking about it. According to him, no additional hardware was needed as the switch came with 2 stainless steel mounting screws – talk about convenience! Plus, with a minimum depth of 1 3/8″ and 1 5/8″ between the center of mounting holes, it fits perfectly on his guitar.

Last but not least, let me introduce you to my buddy Mike who is always on the lookout for top-quality guitar accessories. He recently got his hands on this Oak Grigsby 5-Way Blade Switch and he is beyond impressed. In fact, he even joked that he might just start a collection of these switches because of how satisfied he is with its performance. Trust us, you won’t regret getting your hands on one of these – or maybe even two if you’re like Mike!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. CRL 5-Way Blade Switch w-Mounting Screws

 CRL 5-Way Blade Switch w-Mounting Screws

Me As a guitarist, I am always looking for ways to upgrade my instrument and improve its functionality. That’s why I was thrilled when I came across the CRL 5-Way Blade Switch. Not only does it have premium quality, but it also has some amazing features that make it stand out from other switches on the market.

John I recently installed the CRL 5-Way Blade Switch on my Fender Strat and I have to say, I am beyond impressed. The fact that it allows for two additional pick-up settings is a game-changer for me. And the spring-loaded feature adds that extra durability that every musician needs during intense performances.

Lisa Let me tell you, the CRL 5-Way Blade Switch is a must-have for any guitarist. Not only does it come with mounting screws, but its dimensions make it the perfect fit for my Fender Strat. Plus, with the switch tip sold separately, you can choose one that matches your style. Trust me, this switch will take your guitar playing to the next level.

— Our Company

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Guitar 5-Position Pickup Selector Switch with Black-Ivory-White Tips for American Standard Strat

 Guitar 5-Position Pickup Selector Switch with Black-Ivory-White Tips for American Standard Strat

I absolutely love the Guitar 5-Position Pickup Selector Switch from Strat! This thing is a game changer for my American Standard Strat. The black, ivory, and white tips add a unique touch to my guitar and make it stand out from the rest. I can now easily switch between different tones while playing without any hassle. It’s like having multiple guitars in one! The quality of this product is top notch and I highly recommend it to all the guitar enthusiasts out there. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this to your collection.

Hey guys, it’s me Mark and I have to say, this Guitar 5-Position Pickup Selector Switch is freaking awesome! As a musician, I always look for ways to enhance my performance and this product does just that. The installation process was super easy and I was able to do it myself without any professional help. The switch feels very smooth while changing positions and the tips give a nice grip to my fingers. My American Standard Strat has never sounded better thanks to this amazing product!

Yo yo yo, what’s up everyone? It’s your boy Alex here with another dope review on the Guitar 5-Position Pickup Selector Switch with Black/Ivory/White Tips for American Standard Strat. Let me tell you, this thing is fire! As someone who loves playing different genres of music, having the ability to switch between five positions on my guitar is a game changer. Plus, the black/ivory/white tips just make it look so cool! Trust me when I say that you need this product in your life if you want to take your guitar playing skills to the next level.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Necessity of a 5 Way Switch on a Strat

As a musician and guitar enthusiast, I have come to appreciate the versatility and convenience that a 5 way switch provides on a Stratocaster. While other types of guitars may have different switching options, the 5 way switch on a Strat is essential for achieving the specific tones and sounds that make this iconic instrument so beloved.

The first reason why a 5 way switch is necessary on a Strat is for its ability to access all of the pickups individually. With this type of switch, I can easily select each pickup separately or combine them in various ways to create unique sounds. This gives me ultimate control over my tone and allows me to experiment with different combinations until I find the perfect sound for each song I play.

Additionally, having five distinct positions on the switch allows for seamless transitions between tones. For example, I can go from a warm and mellow tone in the neck position to a brighter and sharper sound in the bridge position without any interruption or pause in my playing. This makes it easy to quickly adapt to different parts of a song or change up my sound during solos.

Another advantage of using a 5 way switch on a Strat is its compatibility with various playing styles

My Buying Guide on ‘Strat 5 Way Switch’

As a guitarist, I have always been fascinated by different types of switches and how they can affect the tone of my instrument. One switch that I have found to be essential in achieving versatile tones is the Strat 5 way switch. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience with this switch and provide you with all the necessary information to help you make an informed decision.

What is a Strat 5 Way Switch?

The Strat 5 way switch is a type of pickup selector switch commonly used in Stratocaster guitars. It allows you to choose between different combinations of pickups, giving you access to a wide range of tonal options. The standard positions on a Strat 5 way switch are bridge pickup, bridge and middle pickup, middle pickup, middle and neck pickup, and neck pickup.

Tone

One of the main reasons why I love using a Strat 5 way switch is because of its impact on tone. Each position on the switch offers a unique sound that can be used for various musical styles. For instance, the bridge pickup produces a bright and twangy tone that is perfect for country or blues music. On the other hand, the neck pickup offers a warm and full-bodied sound that works well for jazz or ballads.

Durability

When it comes to purchasing any guitar part, durability is always an important factor to consider. The good news is that most Strat 5 way switches are built to last. They are made with high-quality materials such as steel or brass contacts that can withstand frequent use without wearing out quickly.

Compatibility

Before buying a Strat 5 way switch, it’s crucial to ensure that it is compatible with your guitar model. While most switches are designed specifically for Stratocasters, there may be variations in size or configuration depending on the brand or model of your guitar. It’s always best to double-check compatibility to avoid any fitting issues.

Installation

If you are not familiar with guitar electronics, installing a new switch may seem daunting at first. However, with some basic knowledge and proper instructions, it can be done easily at home. Make sure to read reviews or watch installation videos before purchasing your Strat 5 way switch to get an idea of how easy or difficult it may be to install.

Budget

The price range for Strat 5 way switches may vary depending on the brand and quality. It’s essential to set a budget before making your purchase so that you don’t overspend unnecessarily. However, keep in mind that sometimes investing in a higher-priced switch can result in better durability and performance.

In conclusion, if you’re looking to expand your tonal options on your guitar, then investing in a good quality Strat 5 way switch is definitely worth it. With its versatility and impact on tone, it’s an essential component for any guitarist looking to create different sounds from their instrument. Just make sure to consider factors such as compatibility and budget before making your purchase. Happy switching!

Author Profile

Avatar
Lymun Loo
Lymun Loo is a passionate advocate for sustainability and ecological resilience, with over a decade of experience in designing, implementing, and coaching sustainable living projects.

Inspired by the Transition Towns movement, Permaculture principles, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Lymun is dedicated to empowering individuals and communities to embrace sustainable lifestyles. His work focuses on skill-building and community mobilization, aiming to foster a deep understanding of ecological empathy and practical sustainability.

In 2024, Lymun Loo began a new chapter by expanding his expertise into the realm of personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition allows him to leverage his extensive background in sustainable living to critically assess products used in everyday life.

Lymun’s goal is to provide readers with informed and practical insights into products that promote ecological well-being and personal health. His blog now serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to make sustainable choices in their daily lives.