What Is a Tactile Switch?
A tactile switch is a small momentary button soldered directly to a board that gives the finger a light "click" feel when pressed. It's the most commonly used button type in electronics.
Why "Tactile"?
The metal dome inside it snaps suddenly at a certain force, both closing the contact and giving the user clear feedback (tactile feedback). So the press being registered can be felt by touch.
Pin Structure
A classic tactile switch has 4 pins; but these pins are internally connected in pairs, so it's actually a single NO contact. The four legs are only for mechanical strength and stable seating on the board.
| Property | Typical |
|---|---|
| Contact | Normally open (NO) |
| Mounting | THT (4 legs) / SMD |
| Force | ~ 1–3 N |
Where Is It Used?
Reset buttons, development boards, remote controls, menu/setting buttons and low-current MCU inputs.
Bounce and Current
Tactile switches also produce contact bounce; debounce is needed in software. They're also only for low signal currents and aren't used in power switching.
Height and Cap
Tactile switches are made in different body heights; this is chosen by the panel thickness and button cap. Colored plastic caps placed over them both enlarge the touch surface and let the buttons be distinguished by color according to their function.
Common Mistakes
- Power switching: high current burns a tactile switch.
- No debounce: a single press is detected as multiple.
- Wrong pin: mistaking two internally-unconnected pins for a "contact".
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does it have 4 legs?+
Is the click sound a must?+
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