The SwitchBot can be customized in a variety of ways to automate your home and electrical appliances, but you might ask yourself what the purpose of the press and switch modes is on the device.
The press and switch modes are simply two different ways you can program your SwitchBot to do the task you need.
Press mode, for example, is useful with standard push buttons (TVs, coffee machines, etc), while switch mode can be used to automate rocker and flip switches.
The setup process is very simple in both cases, as we will also explain in this article. Let’s dive right in.
What Are The Press & Switch Modes On SwitchBot?
The press and switch modes are the two primary modes you can find on the SwitchBot. By default, the device will operate on press mode: the robotic arm will press any button when activated remotely. The switch mode is better suited for appliances with rocker and flip switches, such as light switches.
How to Set Up and Change Your SwitchBot Mode
Your SwitchBot’s mode can be easily selected in the advanced settings of your device, inside the SwitchBot app. Here’s how to do so:
- Find and select your bot inside the app.
- Go to the Advanced Settings.
- Select Mode.
- Choose between press and switch modes.
As we mentioned before, the installation process of the bot differs depending on what mode you’re using.
If you’re using the SwitchBot on switch mode, make sure to attach the sticky pad to the switch beforehand.
When Do You Use Press Mode?
The press mode is more useful when automating push buttons. For example, you can use it to turn on your TV remotely or to activate your coffee maker. The robotic arm will essentially work like a human finger.
The push mode is the standard one on SwitchBot and can automate virtually any appliance that works with a button. You can also customize a few parameters such as press time depending on what you’re automating.
Examples of use:
- TVs and Monitors
- Coffee Machines
- Speakers and Home Theater Systems
- Thermostats
When Do You Use the Switch Mode?
The switch mode is better suited for rocker switches. A lot of appliances feature an on/off rocker switch instead of a button. A very popular way to use the switch mode is to automate older light switches.
To use your SwitchBot bot in switch mode, you will need the sticky pad that is shipped with the product. This will allow the device to both press and pull the switch back up to its original state. Keep in mind that it takes a little more space than the standard press mode, but is still very easy to install.
Examples of use:
- Light Switches
- Appliances with On/Off Rocker Switches
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sticky Hook That Comes With the Switchbot Bot Strong Enough to Work With All Kinds of Switches?
Do I Need Any Extra Accessories to Use the Switchbot Bot in Switch Mode?
Can I Invert the On/Off Direction in Switch Mode?
Conclusion
The press and switch modes on SwitchBot allow you to pick the best configuration for the automation task you have at hand, whether you want to automate a simple button or a flip switch. You can swap between modes on the advanced settings of your device in your SwitchBot app.
Regardless of what mode you’re using, we recommend you check other parameters as well such as press time, so you can find the best combination for your particular use case.
If you have a SwitchBot or you’re planning on buying one, make sure to check our related articles about the device as well.
