The differences between isolating switches and circuit breakers are as follows:

The functions are different. The isolation switch is used to isolate or cut off the circuit to completely isolate it from the power supply or other circuits. It is usually used for safe operation, inspection and maintenance of electrical equipment. In addition to isolating a circuit like an isolating switch, a circuit breaker can also automatically cut off the circuit under fault conditions such as current overload and short circuit to prevent damage to electrical equipment or wires.

The structure is different. The isolating switch usually adopts a double breakpoint frame and is mainly composed of movable contacts and fixed contacts. Circuit breakers usually use electromagnetic or thermal type, and have protection mechanisms such as thermal release and electromagnetic release inside.

Rated current is different. The rated current of the isolating switch is usually small and is generally used in low-voltage circuits. Circuit breakers have larger current ratings and can be used in both low-voltage and high-voltage circuits.

Different nature. The isolating switch is a passive component and can only passively withstand short-circuit current, electrodynamic impact and thermal shock. The circuit breaker is an active component and can actively cut off the short-circuit current when a short-circuit current occurs in the line.