The polarization dependence of the optical input energy required to switch an inhomogeneously pumped bistable laser diode is studied at various input signal wavelengths. Polarization‐independent switching is achieved for input pulse wavelengths 30–40 nm shorter than the lasing wavelength of the bistable laser diode, whereas input pulse wavelengths close to the lasing wavelength result in a strong polarization dependence. A simple theory explains the observed behavior.