When it comes to outfitting your boat with high-quality, reliable push-button switches for marine applications, two names consistently rise to the top: Bluewater and Plash. Both brands offer premium-grade switches built to thrive in the harsh marine environment, while offering unique advantages that cater to different needs, styles, and control preferences.
Whether you’re building out a custom dash, refitting an existing control panel, or simply upgrading your setup for style, functionality, or durability, Bluewater and Plash push-button switches are standout options. And while they serve the same core function—providing easy and intuitive control over your vessel’s electrical systems—they approach that goal with very distinct engineering philosophies.
Bluewater LED Push-Button Switches – Premium Customization Options and Durability
Bluewater’s marine push-button LED-lit switches are well known for their customization options, versatility, and marine-grade build quality. Offered in both 19mm and 22mm sizes, these switches are ideal for modern helm designs where visual clarity, compact footprints, and night-time readability are essential.
One of the key features of Bluewater switches is their availability with either laser-etched labels or transparent adhesive icons — available in over 100 common marine symbols and text configurations. This makes it incredibly easy to set up a panel with crystal-clear identification, whether you’re running bilge pumps, lights, navigation systems, or more! Distributors like CP Performance even offer the ability to make your own custom switch designs.
Switch types include standard push-button momentary and latching switches with switch models available for Nav/Anch functions or other multi-function purposes.
Bluewater has recently introduced a new 2-in-1 Dual-Function Switches (with independently controlled dual buttons in a single unit) on the heels of their adjustable breaker switches that can be set at the dealer to trip at a certain amp rating up to 20 amps.
LED-Backlit Switches featuring Bluewater’s Ultrabright LED’s, with dual-color status illumination (typically blue when off, red when on). Some multi-function switches feature a green light for 2nd function on or yellow for dual on function.
Construction-wise, Bluewater switches feature a seamless 316 stainless steel body, an IP69K waterproof rating, and are built to survive extreme saltwater conditions, vibration, and UV exposure. Behind the panel, they utilize plug-and-play waterproof connectors for ease of wiring and swapping out switches—making future service or panel upgrades quick and hassle-free.
Bluewater’s switches are especially popular among performance boat builders, switch panel makers and more who demand a clean, highly-legible, and fully customizable switch layout with easy wiring. Whether you’re building a sophisticated helm or a simple dash refresh, Bluewater delivers high-end appeal with functional dependability.
Plash Push-Button Switches – Simplicity Meets Strength
Where Bluewater emphasizes flexibility and extensive labeling options, Plash’s marine push-button switches lean into simplicity, toughness, and high current capacity. Offered in both stainless steel and a unique black anodized finish, Plash switches bring a bold, sleek look to your dash with intuitive LED ring illumination and rugged construction.
Plash offers switches in two product lines, their standard models and their high performance, harsh environment “Revert” model switches
One of the standout features of Plash switches is their multi-color LED ring, designed for smart visual feedback with simple blue off, red on for standard two function switches while adding green on LED for 2nd function on multi-function switches.
This tri-color configuration is particularly effective for night-time operation or when managing multiple functions on a single switch such as Nav/Anch function.
One great option on Plashlight push button switches is the available of an RGB switch model that can be wired to Plash’s RGB controller allowing you to switch colors from an app on your phone!
With models rated for 20 amps at 12VDC, these switches are ready to handle high-current loads like lighting systems, pumps, or electric hatch actuators without requiring relays in many cases. They come pre-wired with 3 feet of tinned marine-grade copper wire, making installation fast and straightforward—even for DIYers.
Plash switches are IP67 waterproof and built from corrosion-resistant materials, including a sealed button assembly that resists intrusion from water, salt, sand, and dirt. The black anodized version is especially popular on stealth-themed or blackout dashboards, adding a modern, high-tech appearance.
While the customization options aren’t as extensive as Bluewater’s, Plash switches excel in applications where rugged durability, easy install, and clean visual feedback are top priorities.
Two Great Choices, Built for Different Priorities
At the end of the day, there’s no wrong choice between Bluewater and Plash—both offer high-quality marine push-button switches, but each shines in its own way.
Choose Bluewater if:
- You want full control over button customization
- You prefer swappable buttons or labels and plug-and-play connector backs
- You’re designing a high-end or fully custom dash with multiple circuits
Choose Plash if:
- You want a bold, simplified layout with intuitive LED ring feedback
- You’re building a switch panel with a stealth or modern look and want black anodized switches
- You want the option to customize switch colors
Both brands offer durability, waterproof performance, and aesthetic versatility that meet the demands of today’s boaters. Whether you’re running wide open offshore or cruising at sunset, these switches help you take control with confidence—and look good doing it.