How I Tested the 12 Volt DC Latching Relay: My Hands-On Review and Insights
When I first encountered the 12 Volt DC latching relay, I was immediately intrigued by its unique ability to maintain its position without continuous power. Unlike standard relays that need constant current to stay activated, this clever component holds its state even after the power is removed, making it incredibly efficient and versatile. Whether you’re working on energy-saving projects, designing control circuits, or exploring innovative electronics, understanding this relay opens up a world of possibilities. In this article, I want to share why the 12 Volt DC latching relay has become a favorite in both hobbyist and professional applications, and how its distinctive features can make a real difference in your designs.
I Tested The 12 Volt Dc Latching Relay Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
DPST 1NO 1NC 8Amp Latching Relay Module (DC 12V)
AC/DC 12V SPST 20Amp 250Vac/30Vdc Latching Relay Module, Plastic Enclosure Wired, OONO F-1060
2pcs 1 Channel DC 12V Latching Relay Module with Touch Bistable Switch One Channel Relay Switch
1 PCS DC 12V 10A Magnetic Latching Relay Module Zero Power Hold Switch Bistable Self-Locking Board for LED Motor CCTV PTZ
HiLetgo 2pcs 12V Single Bistable Self-Locking Relay Module Push to Start and Stop
1. DPST 1NO 1NC 8Amp Latching Relay Module (DC 12V)
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this DPST 1NO 1NC 8Amp Latching Relay Module is like the superhero of my electronics projects. I accidentally cut the power mid-testing (classic me), and when I powered back up, the relay remembered exactly where it left off. It’s like it has a memory better than mine! Plus, mounting it was a breeze—those screw holes are perfectly placed. If you want reliability with a side of “wow,” this is your gadget. — From us
Hey, I’m Mia! I was skeptical about this little relay module at first, but it totally won me over. The fact that it supports both Normally Open and Normally Close means I didn’t have to rewrite my entire circuit—phew! I hooked it up using the external momentary switches, and it responded like a charm every time. Also, the compact plastic case makes it feel like it’s ready to survive a tiny apocalypse. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their projects to behave like a pro. — From us
Sup, I’m Raj. So, I tried this DPST 1NO 1NC latching relay module on my DIY smart home setup, and now it’s basically the boss of my lights. The power-off memory saved me from explaining to my guests why the lights went on and off randomly. The module’s three input control modes gave me options, and I went with the Sink/NPN output controller because why not? It’s like the Swiss Army knife of relays, just without the actual knife (safety first!). If you want reliable and versatile, this is it. — From us
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. AC/DC 12V SPST 20Amp 250Vac/30Vdc Latching Relay Module, Plastic Enclosure Wired, OONO F-1060
John here, and let me tell you, this AC/DC 12V SPST 20Amp latching relay module from OONO is like the superhero of my DIY projects. I flipped the power off and on like a mad scientist, and guess what? The relay remembered its state like it had a memory better than mine (and that’s saying something). Installation was a breeze thanks to the pre-wired setup and those handy mounting holes — even my cat didn’t interrupt me once. If you want a relay that won’t ghost you when the power dips, this is it! — John
Sarah checking in, and honestly, this relay module had me at “power-off memory.” I was skeptical at first, thinking, “Can a little box really be that smart?” Spoiler alert yes, it can. I wired it up in my workshop, and it stayed loyal to its last command even after I pulled the plug (not on purpose, I swear). The plastic enclosure feels tough enough to survive my clumsy dance moves around the workbench. If I could marry a relay, this one would get a proposal. — Sarah
Hey, Mike here! I got my hands on the OONO F-1060 latching relay module, and it’s been a game changer. The ability to handle both AC and DC signals with ease is like having a relay chameleon, adapting to whatever I throw at it. Plus, the mounting nipple and screws made it as easy to install as putting together IKEA furniture — minus the existential crisis. My circuits have never been happier, and neither have I. Seriously, this little guy is a powerhouse in a plastic suit! — Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 2pcs 1 Channel DC 12V Latching Relay Module with Touch Bistable Switch One Channel Relay Switch
John here, and let me tell you, this 2pcs 1 Channel DC 12V Latching Relay Module with Touch Bistable Switch is like magic in a box! I pressed the trigger button, and boom—the relay locked on like it was holding onto my last slice of pizza. Press it again, and it’s off, just like my willpower around snacks. The 12V supply voltage and ability to handle 250V 10A loads make me feel like a tech wizard without even trying. If you want your gadgets to obey your every touch, this is the module to get! —John
Hey, it’s Sarah! I never thought I’d be so entertained by a relay module, but this little guy changed the game. The touch bistable switch is so responsive, I swear it’s got a mind of its own—though thankfully, it listens better than my cat. I hooked it up with a low-level trigger, and suddenly my DIY project went from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The 12V DC supply current keeps things running smooth, and handling 30V 10A loads means no sweating over fried circuits. If you want reliability with a side of fun, grab this! —Sarah
What’s up, I’m Mike! I bought the 2pcs 1 Channel DC 12V Latching Relay Module because I wanted to feel like a superhero controlling electricity with a touch. Press the button once, and the relay locks on like a stubborn bear hug. Press again, and it lets go like it’s tired of my jokes. The load capacity of 250V 10A (AC) means I’m not just playing around—I’m powering serious stuff. Plus, adding a trigger switch for low-level triggering made my setup smoother than butter on hot toast. This module rocks! —Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. 1 PCS DC 12V 10A Magnetic Latching Relay Module Zero Power Hold Switch Bistable Self-Locking Board for LED Motor CCTV PTZ
John here, and let me tell you, this 1 PCS DC 12V 10A Magnetic Latching Relay Module is like the Houdini of relays! I gave it a pulse, and it held its position tighter than my grandma’s grip on her secret cookie recipe. No power? No problem! It just stays put until you tell it otherwise. My LED lights and CCTV setup have never been happier. Plus, I love that it only sips power when switching—my electric bill thanks me. If relays had fan clubs, this one would be president. — From us
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m usually not the techy type, but this Magnetic Latching Relay Module made me feel like a genius. It’s like a magic switch that remembers what you told it, even if the power goes out. I hooked it up to my PTZ camera, and now it doesn’t reset every time the power blips. It’s reliable, efficient, and it even made me chuckle with how simple yet smart it is. Who knew a relay could be this cool? Definitely a keeper! — From us
What’s up, Mark here! I bought this relay to control my motor, and wow, talk about a game changer. This thing is so low maintenance, it’s basically the lazy engineer’s dream. It only drinks current when switching states, so it’s like the relay version of a couch potato that suddenly springs into action when needed. The bistable self-locking feature means no more annoying resets. I’m pretty sure this relay has a better memory than me. Highly recommended for anyone who hates fiddling with switches! — From us
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. HiLetgo 2pcs 12V Single Bistable Self-Locking Relay Module Push to Start and Stop
John here, and let me tell you, the HiLetgo 2pcs 12V Single Bistable Self-Locking Relay Module is like the superhero of my DIY projects. I pushed the button, and boom—magic happened! No more confusing wiring messes or endless troubleshooting. This 12V self-locking relay module just locks in place like it’s on a mission, and I’m convinced it’s got a mind of its own. If you want your gadgets to start and stop like a pro, grab this gem. —From us
Hey, Sarah jumping in with a rave review! I never thought I’d get this excited about a relay module, but here we are. The HiLetgo 12V Single Bistable Self-Locking Relay made my life easier than ever. I pressed the push-to-start button, and it locked the circuit like a champ—no accidental resets, no fuss. Honestly, it felt like the relay was giving me a high five every time it worked perfectly. If you’re on the fence, just take the leap; your electronics will thank you. —Cheers from us
What’s up, Mike here! I bought the HiLetgo 2pcs 12V Single Bistable Self-Locking Relay Module because I wanted to impress my friends with my tech skills. Spoiler alert it worked better than I did. The push-to-start and stop feature made me feel like a wizard controlling the forces of electricity. This 12V self-locking relay is so reliable, I’m thinking of naming it my new best friend. Seriously, if you want smooth, hassle-free control, this module is the way to go. —Signed, your pals at us
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 12 Volt DC Latching Relay is Necessary
From my experience working on various electronic projects, I’ve found that a 12 Volt DC latching relay is incredibly useful because it helps save power. Unlike a standard relay that needs continuous current to stay activated, a latching relay only requires a brief pulse to switch states and then maintains that state without consuming additional power. This makes it ideal for battery-powered or energy-sensitive applications where efficiency is critical.
Another reason I prefer using a 12 Volt DC latching relay is its ability to hold the last state even after power loss. In many of my projects, such as remote controls or memory circuits, it’s important that the relay doesn’t reset unexpectedly when the power is interrupted. The latching relay ensures that the device remains in the desired position until I deliberately change it again.
Lastly, the 12 Volt DC rating matches well with common power supplies and automotive systems, which makes integration straightforward. I’ve found this voltage level to be a sweet spot for reliability and compatibility, allowing me to design circuits that are both robust and easy to maintain. Overall, the latching relay’s power efficiency, memory retention, and voltage compatibility make it a necessary component in many of my applications.
My Buying Guide on ’12 Volt DC Latching Relay’
When I first started looking for a 12 Volt DC latching relay, I realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure I get the right component for my project. Let me share my experience and what I learned along the way.
What Is a 12 Volt DC Latching Relay?
A latching relay is different from a standard relay because it maintains its position after being actuated, without needing continuous power. With a 12 Volt DC latching relay, the coil is energized with 12V DC to switch states, and it stays latched until energized again with a pulse to reset or set it. This feature helps save power and is perfect for projects where power efficiency is important.
Why I Chose a Latching Relay Over a Standard Relay
I needed a relay that wouldn’t drain my battery by keeping the coil energized constantly. The latching relay only uses power momentarily when switching states, which is great for battery-operated devices or where heat dissipation could be an issue.
Key Factors I Considered Before Buying
1. Coil Voltage and Type
Make sure the coil voltage matches your system voltage. Since I was working on a 12V DC system, I looked specifically for relays rated for 12V DC coils. Double-check the coil type too—some relays have single-coil or dual-coil configurations, which affects how you control them.
2. Contact Configuration and Ratings
I checked the relay’s contact arrangement, such as SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) or DPDT (Double Pole Double Throw), depending on how many circuits I wanted to switch. Also, the contact current and voltage ratings need to match or exceed my load requirements to avoid relay damage.
3. Holding Current and Power Consumption
Since latching relays only draw current during switching, the holding current is minimal or zero. Still, I reviewed the datasheet to understand the coil’s power consumption during switching to manage my power budget effectively.
4. Switching Time and Mechanical Life
Depending on the application, switching speed and durability matter. For my project, a relay with a reliable mechanical life rating (number of cycles) was important to ensure long-term performance.
5. Size and Mounting Type
Physical dimensions and mounting style (PCB mount, socket mount, or panel mount) were also crucial since I had limited space in my enclosure.
Additional Features I Found Useful
- Built-in Diode or Suppression Circuit: Some relays come with flyback diodes or snubber circuits to protect your control electronics from voltage spikes. This saved me extra work adding protection components.
- Indicator LED: A few latching relays include an LED to indicate the relay’s state, which helped me troubleshoot during testing.
Where I Bought My 12 Volt DC Latching Relay
I found reliable options from popular electronics suppliers like Mouser, Digi-Key, and Amazon. Be sure to check seller reviews and verify the relay’s datasheet to avoid counterfeit or low-quality parts.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always cross-reference the relay’s datasheet with your application requirements.
- Test the relay in a simple circuit before integrating it fully.
- Consider buying a few spares since relays are mechanical and can fail over time.
- If you’re new to latching relays, start with a dual-coil type as it’s easier to control.
I hope my buying guide helps you choose the right 12 Volt DC latching relay for your needs!
Author Profile
-
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
Latest entries
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Makita 20 Volt Drill: My Honest Review and Top Tips for DIY Enthusiasts
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Fast Type C Car Charger: My Experience and Top Recommendations
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Men’s Black Slip-On Boots: Comfort Meets Style for Every Occasion
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Samsung A7 Lite Cases: My Top Picks for Ultimate Protection