How to Choose the Right Recliner Handset or Switch in Australia
The handset or switch is the control point for your electric recliner or lift chair. When it stops working, the chair becomes difficult or impossible to operate. This guide explains how to identify the correct replacement handset or switch for your chair before you order.
What Is a Recliner Switch?
A recliner switch is a simpler controller, often mounted directly to the chair arm or side panel. It may be a rocker switch, a soft-touch button or a diamond-shaped panel. Switches are common on chairs where a handheld controller is not required. Most use an industry-standard 5-pin plug.
What Is a Recliner Handset?
A recliner handset is a handheld controller connected to the chair by a cable. It typically has two or more buttons that control the reclining and footrest functions. Lift chairs may have additional buttons for the lift function. The handset connects to the chair’s motor or control box via a plug.
How to Identify Your Recliner Handset or Switch
Before ordering a replacement, check the following:
- Number of buttons: 2-button (recline only), 4-button (recline and footrest independently), or more for lift chairs.
- Plug type: Count the pins on the connector. Most Australian recliners use a 5-pin or 6-pin plug.
- Cable length: Measure the existing cable if length is important for your setup.
- Brand or motor system: Okin, Kaidi, Limoss and Dewert all use slightly different connectors and control systems.
- Switch style: Round, oval, diamond or rectangular panel switches each have different mounting arrangements.
Common Recliner Handset Types in Australia
- 2-button handset: Controls a single motor for basic recline. Common on older or simpler electric recliners.
- 4-button handset: Controls backrest and footrest independently. Standard on most modern electric recliners.
- Lift chair handset: Includes lift function buttons in addition to recline controls. Often 5-button or more.
- USB handset: Includes a USB charging port built into the controller body.
Common Recliner Switch Types in Australia
- Round switch: Circular soft-touch button, common on Okin-branded chairs.
- Oval switch: Oval-shaped panel, also common on Okin systems.
- Diamond switch: Diamond-shaped soft-touch panel, available in standard plastic or premium stainless steel finish.
- Rocker switch: Simple up/down rocker, found on some older or budget recliners.
Will Any Handset Fit My Recliner?
Not all handsets are interchangeable. The plug type, pin count and motor system must be compatible. A handset with the correct number of buttons but the wrong plug will not connect. Always confirm the connector matches your chair’s control box before ordering.
Many Australian recliners use an industry-standard 5-pin straight plug, which fits a wide range of chairs including those with Okin, Kaidi, Limoss and Dewert motor systems. If your chair uses this connector, a compatible replacement handset or switch is straightforward to source.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my recliner handset is faulty?
Common signs include buttons that do not respond, intermittent operation, a broken cable near the plug, or visible damage to the handset body. Try wiggling the cable near the plug while pressing a button — if the chair responds intermittently, the cable or connector is likely the issue.
Can I replace just the cable on a recliner handset?
In most cases it is more practical to replace the complete handset rather than the cable alone. Replacement handsets are generally available at a low cost and include a new cable and connector.
What is the difference between an Okin round switch and a diamond switch?
The Okin round and oval switches are genuine Okin-branded plastic units designed for specific Okin chair models. The diamond switch is a universal soft-touch panel available in plastic or stainless steel that fits most chairs with a standard 5-pin plug, regardless of brand.
My recliner has two motors. Do I need a special handset?
Yes. A dual-motor recliner requires a handset with at least four buttons to control the backrest and footrest independently. Confirm the plug type and pin count before ordering.
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