Switchboard vs Switchgear: Which One Fits Your Power System Needs?

Introduction

In the electrical industry, many people use the words switchgear and switchboard as if they mean the same thing. In fact, they are different types of equipment used for different voltage levels and safety requirements. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right product for your power system and keep it safe and reliable.

What is switchgear

Switchgear is a group of devices used to control, protect, and isolate electrical circuits in medium- and high-voltage systems. It works automatically when a fault happens, stopping the power flow to protect cables, transformers, and other equipment.

Main parts of switchgear include:

• Circuit breakers (such as vacuum circuit breakers)
• Load break switches and isolators
• Relays, fuses, and lightning arresters
• Measuring and control devices

Switchgear can be used for low voltage (LV), medium voltage (MV), and high voltage (HV) power systems. At Byyou Electric, we produce a wide range of low-volt and high-voltage switchgear.

What is Swicthboard

A switchboard is mainly used for low-voltage power distribution. It is a large panel that holds fixed-mounted circuit breakers, switches, meters, and busbars. Switchboards send power from the main source to different machines or areas in a building. Byyou’s LV Switchgear & Power Distribution Cabinet is a typical example of a low-voltage switchboard system. It can step down high-voltage electricity to a lower level through transformers, then distribute power safely to each circuit. These systems are common in buildings, factories, and commercial facilities where voltage is below 600 V.

Switchgear vs Switchboard

Voltage range:The biggest difference between switchgear and switchboard is the voltage level they handle. Switchgear is made for medium- to high-voltage systems, from about 480 volts up to 35 kilovolts or more. It is designed to manage and protect strong electrical energy used in industrial plants, power stations, and substations. Switchboards, in contrast, are used for low-voltage power distribution, usually below 600 volts, and are commonly found in residential and commercial buildings.

Purpose: The main purpose of switchgear is to control, protect, and isolate electrical systems. It automatically stops power during faults such as overloads, keeping equipment and workers safe. A switchboard, however, is used mainly to distribute electricity from one source to several smaller circuits. It helps send power to different machines, floors, or sections within a building but does not provide advanced protection functions.

Circuit Breakers: Switchgear usually includes withdrawable circuit breakers, such as vacuum or SF₆ circuit breakers, that can be removed easily for inspection, testing, or replacement. This design makes maintenance safer and faster. Switchboards, on the other hand, use fixed-mounted circuit breakers that are directly connected to the panel. They are simpler in structure but cannot be removed without disconnecting the entire system.

Safety: When it comes to safety, switchgear provides much higher protection. It has automatic fault detection, protection relays, isolators, and sensors that can shut down a circuit immediately during abnormal conditions.

Many switchgear systems can also be operated remotely or automatically, reducing the risk for operators. Switchboards have basic protection, mostly manual control with fuses or meters. They are suitable for areas with lower fault risk and smaller power loads.

Component:A switchgear system is more complex and includes multiple protection and control parts, such as circuit breakers, isolators, relays, lightning arresters, measuring instruments, and transformers. These components work together to monitor, control, and secure the electrical network. A switchboard has fewer parts. It mainly includes switches, busbars, meters, and surge protectors, arranged in one large panel. The design is simple, focusing on distributing electricity safely to different circuits.

Operation: Switchgear can be operated automatically, remotely, or manually, depending on system needs. It often includes safety interlocks and digital control units that allow easy monitoring of system status. Access for maintenance can be from the front or rear, depending on the model, and it is built to meet strict safety standards. Switchboards are usually operated manually, and power technicians access them from the front or back of the panel. Their operation is simpler and does not require advanced control devices.

Application: Switchgear is mainly used in large and complex power networks, such as factories, substations, power generation plants, and utility systems. It is designed for environments where high reliability and fault protection are required. Switchboards are more common in buildings, commercial offices, schools, and smaller facilities that use low-voltage power systems. They help manage electricity distribution to lighting, air conditioning, and other basic equipment.

Price: Switchgear is more expensive than switchboards because it contains more components, offers higher protection, and handles stronger voltages. It also requires professional installation and maintenance. Switchboards are less costly and easier to install. They are ideal for smaller systems that do not need advanced automation or heavy fault protection.

How to choose:

Choosing between switchgear and switchboard depends mainly on your voltage level, system size, and safety requirements.

If your project involves medium- or high-voltage systems—for example, substations, factories, or industrial plants—you should choose switchgear. Switchgear can automatically control and protect large electrical networks. It can also handle higher fault currents and allow remote or automatic operation, which improves reliability and safety.

If your project is low voltage, such as a commercial building, office, or residential area, then a switchboard or LV switchgear is the better choice. Switchboards are designed for distributing power to lighting systems, HVAC equipment, and other low-voltage loads. They are simpler to install, easier to maintain, and more cost-effective when complex protection is not required.

When deciding, also think about space, budget, and maintenance. Switchgear is usually larger and more expensive, but it ensures long-term safety and stability. Switchboards take up less space and are ideal for smaller facilities where voltage and current levels are moderate.

If you need both protection and distribution in one unit, Byyou also offers Compact Substations that combine high-voltage switchgear, low-voltage switchgear, and control systems in one ready-to-use solution.

Conclusion:

Byyou Electric is a professional manufacturer focusing on medium- and high-voltage switchgear and low-voltage power distribution equipment. With years of experience and a strong engineering team, Byyou provides complete solutions for safe and efficient electrical systems. Our main products include HV Switchgear & RMU, Compact Substations, LV Switchgear & Power Distribution Cabinets, Vacuum Circuit Breakers, Load Break Switches, Cable Distribution Cabinets, Electric Meter Boxes, and Reclosers. All products are produced under ISO 9001 quality standards, ensuring stable performance, accurate control, and long service life. Understanding the difference between switchgear and switchboard helps engineers design systems that are both safe and efficient. If you are looking for trusted electrical switchgear and low-voltage distribution solutions, Byyou Electric is your reliable partner for modern power distribution and protection.