Switchboard ELD Full Review – Is it worth the price?

Switchboard ELD

From $20 per month

8.3

Customer Support

8.6/10

Ease of Use

8.0/10

Installation

8.3/10

Suitable for fleets

8.9/10

Features & Technology

7.9/10

Pros

• Sturdy platform for a fleet to work with
• Pricing
• ELD Operation On Personal Devices or Dedicated Tablet
• Possibility to switch to personal conveyance
• Log editing & Messaging

Cons

• No built-in navigation
• Log edit system can become confusing if used in a large fleet
• Not as many features as leading ELDs

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An ELD device offers a hassle-free alternative to paper logs, but with so many brands emerging, how do you choose the right one? The Switchboard ELD stands out in 2025 as a reliable and cost-effective solution, competing with top names like Motive (formerly Keep Truckin) and Eroad ELD.

Despite being newer to the market, Switchboard has quickly built a reputation for balancing simplicity, compliance, and affordability. Whether you manage a fleet or operate independently, this Canadian-based brand provides a solution that’s easy to use and loaded with value.

Switchboard combines a clean user interface, strong regulatory compliance, and a straightforward setup that’s ideal for fleets transitioning to or upgrading their ELD systems. Let’s explore what makes it a smart investment in 2025.

Switchboard ELD – The Company

Switchboard is a fast-growing, Canada-based tech company making notable strides in the electronic logging device industry. Their development approach remains focused on solving real-world fleet issues, often incorporating direct user feedback into product updates and features.

As of 2025, Switchboard continues to refine its offerings while maintaining a commitment to affordability and compliance. The company has earned trust among both small fleets and larger carriers by delivering intuitive solutions that address common concerns, especially among drivers skeptical of electronic logging.

Their platform includes a physical ELD unit, a versatile mobile app, and a web portal — all designed to work seamlessly together. For users seeking a no-nonsense, cost-effective, and compliant solution, Switchboard is positioning itself as a serious alternative to legacy ELD brands.

Why Consider Switchboard ELD?

Here’s a breakdown of what makes Switchboard ELD a worthy contender in your search for the ideal electronic logging device:

User-Friendly Design:

Switchboard is built for ease of use. Drivers can quickly navigate duty statuses, review logs, and complete inspections with minimal training. The clean interface makes compliance effortless, even for less tech-savvy users.

 Affordability:

Cost efficiency is one of Switchboard’s strongest selling points. It offers full FMCSA and Canadian ELD compliance at a lower price point, making it accessible for fleets and independent owner-operators alike.

 Comprehensive Integration:

The Switchboard system integrates an intuitive mobile app, a responsive web portal, and reliable hardware. Whether you’re using a dedicated tablet or a personal device, it delivers consistent performance across all platforms.

FMCSA Compliance

Choosing an ELD system means ensuring it meets FMCSA standards. Switchboard ELD not only adheres to the HOS Mandate and IFTA regulations but is also certified by FMCSA, meeting both Canadian and U.S. regulatory requirements. This certification guarantees that Switchboard ELD maintains accurate logs and fuel records essential for compliance. 

Devices and Compatibility

Switchboard offers flexible hardware options to accommodate different fleet sizes and operating styles. Whether you prefer dedicated devices or personal smartphones, the system is built to adapt.

Switchboard ELD Dedicated Tablet

For fleets that value consistency, Switchboard provides a dedicated Android-based tablet optimized for the ELD app. The interface is streamlined for inspections, log edits, and duty status updates, ensuring uniformity across your vehicles.

ELD Operation on Personal Devices

Drivers can also run the Switchboard ELD app on their own Android phones or tablets. The app connects via Bluetooth to the engine module, allowing personal devices to function as compliant logbooks.

Why Dedicated Hardware is Recommended

While personal device compatibility adds flexibility, dedicated Switchboard tablets reduce setup errors, improve uniformity, and ensure fleet-wide consistency. This minimizes training time and improves control for fleet managers.

Secure Bluetooth Connection

Switchboard ELD uses a stable and secure Bluetooth connection to link the engine module with the driver’s device. Once paired, the connection remains active without frequent dropouts — a common issue in older ELD systems.

This stability ensures continuous log recording and accurate vehicle tracking, even over long trips or during temporary network loss. Drivers don’t need to constantly monitor their connection, which reduces stress and improves focus on the road.

For fleet managers, the consistent Bluetooth link means fewer disruptions in data flow and more reliable log records across the fleet.

App Interface Features

The Switchboard ELD app delivers a clean, intuitive experience across all supported devices. Whether using a dedicated tablet or a personal Android device, the interface is consistent and easy to navigate.

Accessibility

Designed with drivers in mind, the app layout highlights essential functions like HOS logs, inspections, and duty status changes. Clear prompts and visual cues reduce the learning curve, making it ideal for both new and seasoned drivers.

Weekly Recaps

For those managing a 60–70 hour duty cycle, Switchboard offers one-touch weekly summaries. Drivers can instantly review their time across statuses, identify violations, and make corrections as needed.

Driver Convenience

Drivers can leave comments on status changes, use personal conveyance mode when applicable, and quickly access logs for roadside inspections. These features ensure transparency while simplifying compliance.

Log Editing

The log editor uses a red-line grid for clarity. Drivers and admins can easily adjust time entries and annotate events to maintain accuracy and avoid HOS violations.

DOT Mode

During inspections, the app switches to a focused DOT mode, showing only the required data. This protects sensitive driver or fleet details while complying with enforcement protocols.

Messaging

The built-in chat system lets drivers communicate with dispatch or fleet managers directly through the app, streamlining operations and removing the need for additional messaging tools.

Pre and Post-Trip DVIRs

Drivers can complete vehicle inspections right in the app. Digital DVIRs ensure regulatory compliance and simplify recordkeeping before and after every trip.

New Features of Switchboard ELD

Engine Diagnostics

Switchboard now includes real-time engine diagnostics. The system detects fault codes and converts them into clear, actionable messages. This helps reduce downtime by allowing drivers and fleet managers to identify and address issues before they escalate.

 Speeding Alerts & Driver Analytics

Advanced analytics now track speeding, idling, and driving behavior more precisely. Fleet managers can review driver performance reports, flag risky habits, and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption or wear and tear.

 Document Capture

The app supports easy capture and upload of Bills of Lading, Proofs of Delivery, and other essential paperwork. Drivers can send, sign, and store documents digitally—streamlining job workflows and eliminating paperwork delays.

 Updated Log Editing

Switchboard has simplified log corrections. Drivers can now adjust specific time blocks or status segments without re-entering full details. This reduces manual entry errors and makes compliance smoother.

 IFTA Reporting

The IFTA module has been improved with automated mileage tracking across jurisdictions. Reports can be generated in minutes, helping fleets stay audit-ready while cutting down on admin work.

 Ease of Installation

Installation remains simple with Switchboard’s plug-and-play engine module. The system auto-detects the vehicle once paired, making setup possible in under five minutes without special tools.

 Updated Support Team

Switchboard’s support is now available 24/7, including weekends. The team is trained to resolve issues quickly—whether you’re facing a technical problem or need guidance with a feature.

 Built-in Weigh Station Bypass

Drivers can now bypass select weigh stations without additional transponders. The feature is integrated into the Switchboard app, helping fleets save time and avoid unnecessary stops.

Comprehensive Fleet Management Features

Switchboard ELD offers more than just logging—it delivers a full suite of tools for efficient fleet oversight. These features help carriers streamline operations, improve compliance, and reduce overhead.

Switchboard Web Portal

Fleet managers can access a powerful web dashboard to monitor driver logs, HOS violations, vehicle locations, and performance metrics. Real-time data visibility allows for quick decisions and accurate reporting.

Managing Log Edits

Supervisors can review, approve, or reject driver-submitted log edits directly from the portal. Each action is tracked, creating a transparent edit history and reducing compliance risks.

Driver Monitoring

With real-time alerts, managers are notified of unsafe behaviors like hard braking, excessive idling, or speeding. This proactive insight improves safety and encourages accountability.

GPS Tracking

Live GPS tracking allows fleet managers to follow each vehicle’s location, monitor route adherence, and confirm ETAs. It supports dispatch optimization and theft prevention.

Fuel Reports

Integrated with Switchboard’s IFTA tools, fuel reports help track usage by route and vehicle. This supports more accurate fuel tax reporting and uncovers inefficiencies in fleet operations.

These capabilities transform Switchboard from a simple ELD tool into a full-featured fleet management system, ideal for both small and large carriers.

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Pricing and Affordability of Switchboard ELD

Switchboard continues to offer one of the most flexible and budget-friendly pricing models in the ELD market, making it accessible for fleets of all sizes—from single trucks to enterprise operations.

Plan Options

• Starter Plan: Ideal for owner-operators, this no-monthly-fee plan covers all FMCSA compliance basics, including HOS logging, log editing, 24/7 support, and access to the Switchboard mobile app.
• Fleet Plan: Targeted towards fleet managers focused on optimizing business operations, this plan builds on the Starter by adding advanced GPS Fleet Tracking, geofencing, driver behavior monitoring, automated IFTA reporting, and vehicle diagnostics, ensuring comprehensive management capabilities.
• Enterprise Plan: Built for growing fleets with advanced needs, the Enterprise plan includes all Fleet Plan features plus Switchboard Vision (asset tracking) and weigh station bypass integration.

Pricing Details

• ELD Engine Module: The essential hardware needed to run the Switchboard ELD costs $200 upfront. If you opt for a dedicated tablet, an additional $250 is required.
• Data Plans: Operational costs include a data plan for mobile connectivity, typically around $15 per month if you use the system on a Switchboard-dedicated device.

Additional Costs

You can purchase additional accessories like filters, cables, and mounts online, ensuring you have all the necessary tools for a seamless setup and operation.

Overall, Switchboard ELD’s flexible pricing and comprehensive plans ensure that you can find a solution that fits your operational needs and budget, without compromising on the essential tools needed for effective fleet management.

What It Lacks

While Switchboard ELD offers impressive value, it’s not without its limitations. Some fleets may miss premium features available in higher-end systems.

• Built-in Navigation: Route guidance must be handled through a separate GPS system or app, as Switchboard does not include built-in turn-by-turn navigation.

• Speeding Alerts: Although driver analytics are improving, real-time speeding alerts are not as advanced or customizable as in some competitor platforms.

• Document Capture: Basic document upload is available, but advanced forms automation and AI-based document scanning are still limited compared to leading TMS-integrated systems.

• Unidentified Driving Accuracy: Some users have noted minor delays or mismatches in how unidentified driving segments are flagged or reassigned.

• Log Editing Refinements: While recent updates have improved editing, the interface still requires multiple clicks for complex edits and could be more intuitive.

These gaps won’t affect basic compliance but may be a consideration for larger fleets that rely on deeper customization, advanced diagnostics, or all-in-one integrations.

FAQs about Switchboard ELD

What is Switchboard ELD?
Switchboard ELD is a certified electronic logging device solution designed to help carriers and drivers stay compliant with FMCSA and Canadian HOS regulations. It includes an app, web portal, and engine module.

Is Switchboard ELD compliant in both the U.S. and Canada?
Yes. Switchboard is FMCSA-registered and third-party certified in Canada, making it legal for use across North America.

How does Switchboard help with FMCSA compliance?
It automates duty status logging, records drive time from engine data, supports log edits, and includes a DOT inspection mode for roadside checks.

What is IFTA, and how does Switchboard support it?
The International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) requires carriers to report fuel usage across jurisdictions. Switchboard auto-tracks mileage and fuel data, making quarterly reports faster and more accurate.

Does Switchboard offer engine diagnostics?
Yes. It decodes engine fault codes into plain-language alerts, helping reduce downtime and improve maintenance efficiency.

How does the app handle documents?
Drivers can scan and upload Bills of Lading, Proofs of Delivery, and more. These can be sent and signed digitally within the app.

Is installation difficult?
Not at all. The plug-and-play engine module connects via Bluetooth. Most setups are completed in under five minutes with no special tools.

What support does Switchboard offer?
Their support team is available 24/7, including nights and weekends, via phone, chat, or email.

How does Switchboard pricing compare to other ELDs?
It’s one of the most affordable options available, especially with the Starter Plan being free. Paid plans remain competitively priced without sacrificing functionality.

Conclusion

Switchboard ELD remains a smart, practical choice for fleets and owner-operators looking for a dependable, compliant, and affordable electronic logging solution. With its easy-to-use app, seamless Bluetooth connectivity, and support for both U.S. and Canadian regulations, it checks all the essential boxes.

While it may not include every advanced feature found in higher-end systems, Switchboard makes up for it with reliable performance, strong compliance tools, and a flexible pricing structure. Its integration of fleet management tools like GPS tracking, IFTA reporting, document upload, and engine diagnostics further strengthens its appeal.

For growing fleets or small carriers upgrading from paper logs, Switchboard provides a well-rounded system without the steep learning curve or high costs. It adapts to your operation, scales with your needs, and simplifies both compliance and daily driver tasks.

If you’re ready to enhance your fleet operations with a trustworthy ELD system, Switchboard is a solution worth considering. Don’t hesitate to fill out our consultation form. Our experts are ready to provide tailored advice and help you make the most informed decision for your fleet management needs.