Push Button Switches

Push button switches, also known as push switches, are one of the most common types of electrical switches used today, found in everything from everyday household appliances to complex industrial machinery. A push button has two main components—the button itself and the internal switching mechanism.

When pressed, the plunger moves to engage or disengage the internal contacts, completing or breaking the electrical circuit. With their straightforward operation and robust construction, push buttons are a popular choice for controlling electrical devices, activating alarms and initiating various control sequences.

Here at RS, we offer a comprehensive range of high‑quality illuminated and non‑illuminated push buttons in a wide choice of shapes, sizes and colours. Our range includes Better World options designed to support sustainability through Extend Product Life and Low Carbon Manufacture claims.

We stock leading brands such as Siemens, ABB, Eaton, [Alps Alpine](Alps Alpine) and Allen Bradley, ensuring you can find the right solution whether you're designing a new project or maintaining an existing installation.

Types of Push Button Switches

• Momentary Switches – Also known as spring return buttons, these require continuous compression to remain active. The switch only stays on while force is applied, and returns to its off position once released. Momentary switches are identified by brackets around the momentary position, for example (On)-Off-(On) or On-(Off).
• Latching Switches – Also known as maintained or stay‑put switches, these do not require constant pressure. When pressed, they remain on until pressed again, at which point they release and return to the off position.
• Illuminated Switches – These incorporate an LED or another light source that activates when the switch is pressed. They are ideal in low‑light environments or applications where a clear visual indication of switch status is required.

Explore our Push Button Switches Guide for more information.