Why are the toggle switches in cockpits of new aircraft painted white?
The reason is threefold:

White knobs offer better contrast, and are thus easier to spot regardless of lighting conditions

The material used has improved and consistent friction and &quot;feel&quot; to it. Bare metal switches, especially when worn out by use may become slippery, and since some of the toggle switces have detents, operating them might be compromized.

The plastic coating (on at least most) of the switches can be renewed without replacing the whole switch assembly. For example on the larger switches white knobs are screw on -type