Push button switches are electromechanical devices used to turn circuits on or off by pressing a button. They have become indispensable components in various modern applications, from industrial equipment to consumer electronics. This article explores seven common types of push button switches, their key features, and ideal use cases.
1. Illuminated Push Button Switches
Illuminated push button switches feature built-in LED lights that illuminate the button for easy visibility, especially in low light conditions. They come in a wide variety of colors and can be momentary or maintained contact types.
Key Features:
- Built-in LED illumination
- Available in multiple colors
- Enhanced visibility
- Momentary or maintained contact
Ideal Uses:
- Consumer electronics – TVs, stereos, appliances
- Industrial human-machine interfaces (HMIs)
- Automotive dashboards and interiors
- Gaming equipment and arcade games
Top Pick: AMERTEER Illuminated Push Button Switch
2. Waterproof Push Button Switches
With an IP67 or IP68 rating, waterproof switches prevent dust and liquid ingress, making them suitable for wet environments. Their protective rubber sealing gaskets provide a tight enclosure.
Key Features:
- IP67 or IP68 ratings
- Waterproof and dust-tight housing
- Protective rubber gaskets
- Reliable in wet conditions
Ideal Uses:
- Outdoor electronic equipment
- Marine electronics and boats
- Car washes and wash-down equipment
- Swimming pool pump controls
Top Pick: 16mm Blue LED Waterproof Latching Push Button Switch
3. Anti-Vandal Push Button Switches
Anti-vandal push button switches feature reinforced housings and buttons to prevent damage from hitting, keying, or attempts to destroy them. Stainless steel is commonly used.
Key Features:
- Tamper-proof reinforced housing
- Heavy-duty stainless steel construction
- Weather and impact-resistant
- Prevent physical destruction
Ideal Uses:
- Public kiosks and displays
- Transit ticket machines
- Outdoor payment terminals
- Prisons and mental health facilities
Top Pick: Wieson Anti-Vandal Stainless Steel Push Button Switch with Metal Button
4. Metal Push Button Switches
Metal push button switches feature housing and actuator heads constructed from stainless steel, aluminum, or brass rather than plastic. This provides enhanced durability.
Key Features:
- All-metal housing construction
- Brass, aluminum or steel options
- Extreme impact and weather resistance
- Long mechanical lifespans
Ideal Uses:
- Factory equipment and machine tools
- Outdoor access control panels
- Military and aerospace controls
- Appliances in commercial kitchens
Top Pick: Eaton METAL Push Button Start Switch
5. Large Push Button Switches
Large push button switches have wider buttons spanning 25mm, 30mm, 40mm, or even 50mm for convenient operation. Their oversized scale provides an easy target to hit.
Key Features:
- Oversized buttons – 25 to 50mm
- High actuating force options
- Easy to access and hit button target
- Heavier current capacity
Ideal Uses:
- Industrial machine emergency stop buttons
- Large industrial control panels
- Medical imaging equipment
- Ruggedized military equipment
Top Pick: 40mm Red Mushroom Head Push Button Switch
6. Miniature Push Button Switches
Miniature push button switches measure just 6-12mm wide for applications where space is extremely constrained. Their small scale suits advanced PCBs.
Key Features:
- Ultra-compact 6 to 12mm scale
- Extremely small PCB footprint
- Short actuation strokes
- Available in SMT and through-hole types
Ideal Uses:
- Portable consumer electronics
- Compact IoT and smart home devices
- Wearable and medical devices
- Small battery-powered equipment
Top Pick: 6 x 6mm Tactile Push Button Switch
7. Dual Push Button Switches
Dual push button switches integrate two independent buttons into a single housing unit, conserving space. Both buttons can share common terminals.
Key Features:
- Two buttons in one housing
- Common or separate terminals
- Compact space-saving design
- Allows distinct ON/OFF controls
Ideal Uses:
- Automotive interiors and dashboards
- Audio and hifi equipment
- Industrial control equipment
- Test and measurement equipment
Top Pick: 16mm Blue LED Dual Push Button Latching Switch
With many types available, follow these key considerations when selecting a push button switch for your application:
Contact Type: Choose momentary or maintained contacts depending on whether you need a temporary or latching circuit state when actuated.
Environment: Determine if you need standard, weatherproof, waterproof, or explosion-proof push button switch housings to suit your operating environment.
Size: Consider the size of the switch in terms of hand clearance space and housing dimensions to ensure easy access and fit.
Actuator Type: Pick from plastic, metal, or illuminated actuator heads based on durability needs and visibility requirements in your application.
Voltage/Current Ratings: Verify that the contact rating meets or exceeds the voltage and current loads in your electrical system.
Certifications: For commercial equipment, select push button switches carrying globally recognized safety marks like UL, CSA, CE or others as required.
By taking into account these key criteria, you’ll be equipped to select the optimal push button switch for reliable performance in your application. Reach out to a supplier if you need any further guidance.
