Quick answer: BR and CH are two separate Eaton breaker families, and they are not interchangeable. The right one is whichever your panel was built for. Check the label inside your panel door for the breaker types it accepts.
BR vs CH at a glance
| Eaton BR | Eaton CH | |
|---|---|---|
| Width (single pole) | 1 inch | 3/4 inch |
| Handle color | Black | Tan / sandalwood |
| When tripped | Handle moves to the center position | Handle moves to OFF |
| Panel type | BR load centers | CH load centers |
| Positioning | Value-focused residential and light commercial | Premium residential and light commercial |
| AFCI, GFCI, dual function | Available | Available |
| Plug-on neutral | Available (BR plug-on neutral panels) | Available (CH plug-on neutral panels) |
Prices, ratings, and stock vary by amperage and breaker function, so always check the exact part number.
Can you use a BR breaker in a CH panel (or the reverse)?
No. BR and CH breakers use different widths, bus connections, and mounting designs. Physical fit is not proof of compatibility. Use only a breaker type listed for the specific panel, following its labeling and Eaton's instructions.
Compare the available models in our Eaton BR breaker collection and Eaton CH breaker collection. Check the panel label and the exact breaker model before ordering.
How to tell which panel you have
- Open only the hinged panel door, leaving the protective cover in place, and read the manufacturer's label. It lists the panel model and approved breaker types.
- Note the complete panel model and breaker types listed, then match the exact breaker catalog number to the panel's documentation.
- Don't rely on the brand name, handle color, or whether a breaker seems to fit. Older panels may have different branding; the labeling and manufacturer instructions determine compatibility.
- If the label is missing or unclear, ask a qualified electrician to identify the panel before ordering. Do not remove the protective cover or touch any wiring to find the label.
Plug-on neutral: match the panel too
AFCI, GFCI, and dual function breakers may use a pigtail neutral (a short white wire connects to the neutral bar) or plug-on neutral (the breaker connects to the panel's neutral without a pigtail). A plug-on neutral breaker must match the approved panel platform and neutral design. Don't use a letter in the model number as your sole compatibility test: our BRP120DF product page identifies it as plug-on neutral, but you should verify your exact breaker model against the panel label and Eaton's documentation. Browse our dual function breakers, AFCI breakers, and GFCI breakers.
When to choose BR
- Your panel is a BR panel. This settles it.
- You want a lower upfront cost for a project with many circuits.
- You need AFCI, GFCI, or dual function breakers for a BR panel. These are among the most popular breakers we sell.
When to choose CH
- Your panel is a CH panel. This settles it.
- You're planning a new installation and prefer CH's narrower breakers, copper bus construction, and current warranty terms.
- You want the trip-to-OFF handle, which makes a tripped breaker easy to spot.
What about interrupting ratings (AIC)?
You'll see claims online that CH is always rated higher than BR. Don't rely on that. Both families include breakers with different interrupting ratings, and the rating depends on the specific part. Read the kAIC marked on the breaker and compare it to your panel's rating and the available fault current at your service. An electrician or your utility can help with this for new installs.
New, open-box, or refurbished
Many customers save with open-box or refurbished breakers, and the compatibility rules above apply to all of them.
At Breakers Mart, new means unused and in original, unopened condition. New (open box) means new and unused without original retail packaging. Refurbished items are previously owned and inspected and tested for functionality. Check the condition and availability on the specific product listing before ordering.
Our warranty policy lists 12 months for new, 10 months for new open-box, and 90 days for reconditioned items. Our return policy allows return requests within 30 days of delivery, subject to its condition and installation rules.
FAQ
Are Eaton BR and CH breakers interchangeable?
No. They have different widths, mounting, and bus connections. Install only the types listed on your panel's label.
Which is better, BR or CH?
Neither is better in every case. BR is value-focused and CH is positioned as the premium line. For replacing a breaker, use whichever matches your panel.
How do I know if I have a BR or CH panel?
Read the label inside the panel door for the model number and accepted breaker types.
Can I use a plug-on neutral breaker in any panel?
No. It must match a panel designed for it, and the correct platform, BR or CH.
Do BR and CH both come in AFCI, GFCI, and dual function?
Yes, both families offer these protection types. Check local code for where each is required.
Is it safe to install a breaker myself?
Panel work is dangerous. Leave the protective cover in place when reading the label inside the panel door. Have a qualified electrician handle identification if the label is unclear and any installation or work inside the panel. Turning off the main breaker does not necessarily de-energize incoming line terminals.
Find the right Eaton breaker
Browse our Eaton BR breakers and Eaton CH breakers, see all Eaton products or load centers and panels, or contact us with your panel model and we'll help you find the correct fit.