Both gate valves and globe valves can operate as on/off valves. A gate valve is not meant to bused to throttle flow, but a globe valve can. Flow diverts within the globe valve and becomes parallel to the valve seat. This design makes globe valves efficient flow throttlers. Globe valves become unsuitable for throttling flow at larger diameters (above DN 150). Gate and globe valves can be operated mechanically, pneumatically, or electrically.

Note: With other factors equal, Y-valves are the least efficient at throttling flow because the valve seat is not parallel to the flow direction. However, this also means that Y-valves have the smallest pressure drop.