Push buttons are available in different sizes and are a common feature in a wide range of applications. Whether they are industrial machines or consumer electronics, this range of applications necessitates varied sizing. Understanding these sizes, the standards that govern their dimensions and their typical uses is useful when selecting them.
1. Micro Buttons
Think of the smallest push buttons you have seen; these are micro buttons. They are found inside gadgets as part of printed circuit boards (PCPs). They are about 2mm to 6mm in size, making them tiny and as small as a sesame seed. You may even fail to spot them.
2. Miniature Buttons
These are the second smallest buttons. A good example are the buttons in a remote-control device. The buttons you press are miniature push buttons.
They range from 7mm to 12mm in size, and while they are still small, they are still comfortable enough to make it easy for you to press them.
3. Standard Buttons
These are the more common options of push buttons, especially in everyday use. They are used in common appliances like the microwave or the coffee maker or in the control panels you may have at the workplace. They fit the right size between too big and too small, the size of a small coin ranging from 12mm to 30mm.
4. Large Buttons
The big boys finally. These are the largest-sized push buttons starting from 30mm, and there is really no limit. They are designed to be accessed easily, and you can see them from afar. They include the buttons controlling big machines and emergency buttons. You cannot miss their big sizes, which can be bigger than a bottle cap.
Choosing The Right Push Button Size
Choosing the right-sized push button size is not as obvious as it seems. Here is an overview of a few essential things to consider;
1. Where the Button Will Be Used
In what application will the push button be used? This is a vital consideration as matching the size of the button and the function ensures efficiency and ease of usability.
Take, for instance, a remote TV’s buttons, they have their small size so as to fit comfortably in the palm as it is a handheld device. However, in a big machine, you want larger buttons for easy access.
2. User Interface
Imagine you’re out in the cold, and you’re wearing those fluffy winter gloves. If you’re trying to press a tiny button, it can be quite a challenge, right?
Or if you’re in a dark room and need to find the button quickly. In such situations, a larger button would be your best friend. So, think about the setting in which the button will be used.
3. Aesthetics
Aesthetics matter because we want our gadgets to look stylish and sleek, matching the surrounding spaces. To most buyers, the look and feel of push buttons are just as important as the function it performs. If that also matters to you, then you want something that will complement the overall theme of your setup.
4. Installation Space
This is a basic consideration; one you should factor in long before you go buying the push button. Measure the space the push button is supposed to fit in and shop around for a fitting push button. If you have a compact device, then you will need a small push button; if the space is sufficient, then a bigger push button will be fine. Also, consider the best option of access.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right push button requires careful consideration, with size being one of the most important factors to keep in mind. On top of that, consider the style and fit to ensure you get a push button that matches your preference and purpose.