Best Circuit Breakers of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Circuit breakers are essential safety devices that protect electrical circuits from overloading or short circuits. They are designed to interrupt the flow of electricity when the current exceeds a safe level, preventing damage to electrical equipment or even fires. Circuit breakers come in different sizes and types, such as thermal, magnetic, and hybrid. They are commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, and are an important component of any electrical system. It is important to regularly test and maintain circuit breakers to ensure they are functioning properly and providing reliable protection.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Square D Homeline Tandem Circuitbreaker Cover #TOP 1
Square D Homeline Tandem Circuitbreaker
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Square D Homeline 20 Amp Circuit Breaker Cover #TOP 2
Square D Homeline 20 Amp Circuit Breaker
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SIEMENS Q230 Circuit Breaker Cover #TOP 3
SIEMENS Q230 Circuit Breaker
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Circuit Breakers

#TOP 1

Square D Homeline Tandem Circuitbreaker

HOMT2020CP
Black
Pack of 1
Square D Homeline Tandem Circuitbreaker Cover
Telemecanique Sensors HOMT2020CP Homeline Tandem Circuitbreaker

The Square D Homeline Tandem Circuitbreaker is a magnetic circuit breaker with dual single poles at 20 amps. It has a high current capacity of 10kA, ensuring that it can interrupt the current before breaking. The easy plug-on design makes it compatible with SE Homeline Loadcenters, making it easy to install. This circuit breaker is also compatible with Square D Homeline Loadcenters.

What We Like
Easy installation
Good fit
Reliable performance
Quality brand
Cost-effective
What We Don't Like
Minor fitting adjustments needed
#TOP 2

Square D Homeline 20 Amp Circuit Breaker

HOM120CP
0.45
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Square D Homeline 20 Amp Circuit Breaker Cover
Square D by Schneider Electric HOM120CP Homeline 20 Amp Single-Pole Circuit Breaker

The Square D Homeline 20 Amp Circuit Breaker is an easy-to-install magnetic circuit breaker with a plug-on design. It has a 120/240-volt AC and a switching duty rating (SWD) for 20 amp one-pole breakers. It is also compatible with Homeline load centers and CSED devices.

What We Like
High-quality name brand parts
Good price for value
Great for home spares
Durable under load
What We Don't Like
Missing center for multi-switch use
#TOP 3

SIEMENS Q230 Circuit Breaker

Q230
black
30 Amp
SIEMENS Q230 Circuit Breaker Cover
SIEMENS Q230 30-Amp Double Pole Type QP Circuit Breaker

The SIEMENS Q230 30-Amp Double Pole Type QP Circuit Breaker is an ideal choice for overload and short-circuit protection of your electrical system. With a double pole, 30 Amp, 240V type QP circuit breaker, it offers an interrupting rating of 10,000 AIC. This magnetic circuit breaker is compatible with Siemens PL and ES series load centers and provides easy plug-in connections in Siemens enclosures. The time-saving insta-wire feature further simplifies the installation process. You can use the SIEMENS Q230 Circuit Breaker to ensure the safety and reliability of your electrical system.

What We Like
High build quality
Easy installation
Reliable performance
Perfect compatibility
Cost-effective
What We Don't Like
Color makes visibility tricky
Some rough handles
#TOP 4

Square D QO Tandem Mini Circuit Breaker

QO2020C
Gray
Square D QO Tandem Mini Circuit Breaker Cover
Square D - Tandem Mini Circuit Breaker, QO, 1 Pole at 20A, 120/240VAC, 10kA, Plug in Mount, Clam Pack - QO2020C

The Square D QO Tandem Mini Circuit Breaker is designed to protect against overloads and short-circuits. It is compatible only with QO panels that allow tandem breakers and can be easily installed through plug-in installation. The breaker trips thermally in case of overload and magnetically under a short circuit situation. Users are advised to contact their local building inspector for code adoptions and details regarding general NEC 2020 updates.

What We Like
Well packaged
Timely delivery
Fair price
Exact replacement
Quality item
What We Don't Like
Shipping not free
#TOP 5

20 Amp AFCI Plug-On Neutral Circuit Breaker

QA120AFCN
Black
20 Amp AFCI Plug-On Neutral Circuit Breaker Cover
20 Amp 1-Pole Combination Type AFCI Plug-On Neutral Circuit Breaker

This AFCI Plug-On Neutral Circuit Breaker is easy to install and doesn't require pigtail. It comes with LED indicators for easy troubleshooting and Insta-wire connectors. It's HACR and SWD rated, UL Listed and has 10,000 AIC. It is designed to prevent electrical fires caused by arc faults.

What We Like
Affordable compared to retail
Easy installation process
Smooth replacement experience
Provides GFCI protection
What We Don't Like
Some reliability issues
Tripping problems reported
#TOP 6

Siemens Q120DFN 20A Dual Function Circuit Breaker

Q120DFN
Black
Siemens Q120DFN 20A Dual Function Circuit Breaker Cover
20 Amp 1-Pole Dual Function (CAFCI/GFCI) Plug-On Neutral Circuit Breaker

Siemens Q120DFN 20A Dual Function Circuit Breaker is a black circuit breaker that installs easily like any other breaker without the pigtail. It has a 10,000 AIC rating and is both HACR and SWD rated. It is UL Listed and falls under the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters category.

What We Like
Quality product
Reasonably priced
Quick overnight delivery
Easy to install
Clean wiring with plug-on-neutral
What We Don't Like
Packaging may vary
Potential tripping issues
#TOP 7

Siemens Q120DF 20-Amp Dual Function Circuit Breaker

Q120DF
Black
20-Amp
Siemens Q120DF 20-Amp Dual Function Circuit Breaker Cover
SIEMENS Q120DF 20-Amp Afci/Gfci Dual Function Circuit Breaker, Plug-in Load Center Style

The Siemens Q120DF 20-Amp Dual Function Circuit Breaker is a cost-effective solution to meet code requirements, eliminating the need for separate AFCI breaker and GFI receptacle installation. It features an LED trip indicator that helps you easily identify the cause of any trip. This breaker is compatible with Siemens load centers that accept UL type QFGA2 breakers, and it is HACR, SWD, and 120 Volt AC rated. To run the self-test/trip functions, the breaker requires power and will not test/trip when not installed.

What We Like
Easy installation
Effective dual protection
Cost-effective solution
Reliable performance
OEM quality
What We Don't Like
Possible nuisance tripping with specific tools
#TOP 8

Square D HomeLine 30A Surge Circuit Breaker

505706
No Color
One Size
Square D HomeLine 30A Surge Circuit Breaker Cover
Square D HomeLine 30 amps Surge 2-Pole Circuit Breaker

The Square D HomeLine 30 amps Surge 2-Pole Circuit Breaker is a magnetic circuit breaker with a 2" size, 30 amp, 120/240 vac, non-interchangeable, and 10,000 AIR. It also features a switch indicator that provides convenience in monitoring the breaker status. This circuit breaker is useful for protecting your home's electrical system from overloads and short circuits.

What We Like
Functional and value-driven
High-quality build
Easy installation
Clear product description
Reliable brand reputation
What We Don't Like
Finding the right breaker can be challenging
#TOP 9

Connecticut Electric Circuit Breaker for Zinsco Panels

UBIZ0220
GRAY
20 amp
Connecticut Electric Circuit Breaker for Zinsco Panels Cover
Connecticut Electric UBIZ0220-New Zinsco RC3820 Replacement Two Pole 20 Amp Thin Series Circuit Breaker

This Connecticut Electric circuit breaker is a new replacement for Zinsco circuit breaker panels. It is ETL listed to UL Standard 489 for US and Canada and has a 10,000 AIC. The 20 Amp, 120/240 VAC 2 Pole breaker is in a 3/4" body and has a plug in type. It may also be branded as Sylvania (ie, Sylvania RC 3820).

What We Like
Designed for Zinsco panels
Aligns with modern electrical code
Easy installation
Great customer service
Reasonably priced
What We Don't Like
Potential for wrong part ordering
Missing screws in some cases
#TOP 10

SIEMENS Q1515 Circuit Breaker

Q1515
Black
15 Amp
SIEMENS Q1515 Circuit Breaker Cover
SIEMENS Q1515 15 Amp Duplex Circuit Breaker, Black

SIEMENS Q1515 Breaker is a space-saving circuit breaker designed for use in Siemens load centers and meter combinations that are rated to accept type QT breakers. This dual breaker features two single pole, 15 Amp 120-Volts interchangeable. It requires only half the space of 1-inch width circuit breakers, providing more room in your electrical panel. The manual means of energizing and de-energizing a circuit allows for easy control and safety. The SIEMENS Q1515 Breaker accepts #14-6 AWG Cu or #14-6 AWG Al wire, making it versatile for different wiring needs. With a 10k AIC series rating and HACR rating, it ensures reliable performance. It is CSA certified and UL Listed, guaranteeing its quality and safety.

What We Like
Great price
Easy installation
Perfect fit
Dedicated circuits
Specific for RV use
What We Don't Like
Slight modification needed
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why does my circuit breaker keep tripping without load?

If your circuit breaker keeps tripping without any additional energy-consuming appliances, the cause might be damaged cables, electrical connections, switches, or devices. These issues can lead to short circuits, which overheat and overload the wires. The circuit breaker trips to protect your appliances. To resolve this, inspect your electrical outlets and wiring to find the source of the problem and fix it.

2. Do circuit breakers go bad?

Yes, circuit breakers can go bad over time. The frequency of this occurrence may vary depending on factors such as climate, electrical overload, and the age of the breaker. It is important to monitor the functioning of your circuit breakers and replace them if necessary to ensure the safety and efficiency of your electrical system.

3. How can you tell if a circuit breaker needs to be replaced?

There are several signs that indicate a circuit breaker may need to be replaced. These include: frequent tripping of the circuit breakers, an electrical system that operates on fuses, an old circuit breaker panel, the use of the wrong amp wiring, tripping when plugging in a specific appliance, rust on the breaker, a burning smell, and a hot panel when touched. If you notice any of these signs, it is advisable to consider replacing the circuit breaker.

4. What causes a breaker to trip repeatedly?

The most common cause of a circuit breaker tripping repeatedly is an overloaded circuit. Each circuit is designed to carry a specific electrical load, and if it exceeds this load, the breaker will trip to protect the circuit. It is important to ensure that the electrical load on a circuit is within its capacity to prevent frequent tripping of the breaker.

Editor's Notes

During our circuit breaker research, we found 24 circuit breaker products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 75,448 customer reviews through our big data system to write the circuit breakers list. We found that most customers choose circuit breakers with an average price of $31.86.

The circuit breakers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of circuit breakers, including Schneider Electric, SIEMENS, Square D, Connecticut Electric. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.

Circuit Breakers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Schneider Electric Schneider Electric SIEMENS Schneider Electric SIEMENS SIEMENS SIEMENS Square D Connecticut Electric SIEMENS
Current Rating 20 Amps 20 Amps 30 Amps 20 Amps 20 Amps 20 Amps 20 Amps 30 Amps 20 Amps 15 Amps
Circuit Breaker Type Standard Standard Standard Standard AFCI AFCI AFCI Standard Standard Standard
Mounting Type Plug-In Mount Plug-In Mount Plug-In Mount Plug-In Mount Plug-In Mount Plug-In Mount Plug-In Mount Plug-In Mount Plug-In Mount Plug-In Mount
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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