Both push-button switches and selector switches are used for controlling the functions of machinery or equipment. Where the push button switches can maintain on or off position to turn off or on a device or function in a device, the selector switches allow switching between different circuits or function modes in a device. Understanding the core difference between these switches is the key to sourcing the right one for industrial control panels. These switches cannot only help to control or manage different functions in a device but also ensure efficient functioning. These switches are installed very carefully for every mode or feature in the equipment. Hence, we have curated this blog to help you choose the right one between push buttons vs selector switches for your control panels.
Understand All About Push Button Switches and Selector Switches:
What are Push Button Switches?
A push-button switch is a simple mechanical device that turns on or off a specific function in a device. These switches have to be installed separately for every function or circuit in the equipment. They have a spring mechanism that launches it outwards once the device or a function has been turned off or on. These buttons can be used for a wide range of electrical devices or equipment, from a consumer-grade air cooler to industrial machinery.
Major Benefits of Using Push-Button Switches
Easy to Install and Use
Push button switches have a simple design and spring-loaded mechanism, which makes them easy to install and use in any device. With a simple press, the circuit can be completed and broken off for the efficient functioning of the device. These switches eliminate the chances of errors and help brands to make their device user-friendly.
Durable and Reliable
These switches are designed to be very durable so that they can handle the heat generated by circuits and don’t break the circuit when the device is in use. They help every brand to offer its customers the best quality products that don’t malfunction easily. Moreover, with just a simple mechanical function, these devices are very reliable to ensure the feature works.
Versatile
Push buttons are very versatile. They can be used for numerous applications, from consumer-grade products to industrial machinery. They come in various sizes and colors to indicate different functions of the device. Moreover, their shape can be customized based on the machine or system they are being used in.
Compact
These devices can be very compact if a brand wants to install them in their product without much customization or compromising on features. These switches can be tiny and still be very efficient for handling the functioning of a device or a specific feature in a device.
Safety Features
Push button switches also come with built-in safety features that protect the device or machinery from electrical damage. They have mushroom heads for preventing accidental activation and a different color indicator, which may indicate a malfunction or error.
What are Selector Switches?
Selector switches are the electrical devices that enable users to switch between different feature modes of a device. They can be used for turning a device on and switching from manual to automatic mode. These switches are available with levers or rotating knobs for easy use. Moreover, a single selector switch can be installed to handle multiple circuits or functions in a device, eliminating the need for installing separate push-button switches for every circuit.
Major Benefits of Selector Switches
Cost Saving
Selector switches are very cost-saving as they don’t have a higher upfront amount and eliminate the need for numerous push buttons for controlling multiple circuits. Brands can compile the connections of multiple functions in a product into one single component. This significantly reduces the number of push buttons they use and their cost, making the product or machinery less expensive for the final customer.
Save Space
You can use a single selector switch for controlling multiple functions in a control panel, which helps save a lot of space. It reduces the number of total switches to be installed in the control panel, which makes room for other essential components and organized wiring connections.
Locked at One Position
Where push buttons have spring mechanisms for turning on and off a function, they have a slight chance of activating accidentally. On the contrary, selector switches can maintain the same position once they are rotated or pulled, preventing accidental changes in the system or equipment functioning.
Key Lock Security
Many selector switches are installed in crucial systems that can’t afford any mistakes. To prevent anyone unauthorized from changing the position of the switch, they come with a key lock safety mechanism. Meaning, only a trained operator will have access to the switch and can activate or deactivate it, preventing any expensive mistakes.
Major Difference Between Push Buttons and Selector Switches
| Basis | Push Buttons | Selector Switches |
| Operation | Press to operate | Rotate to select |
| Action Type | Momentary action | Maintained position |
| Usage | Start, stop, reset actions | Mode or function selection |
| Positions | Usually one position | Multiple fixed positions |
| Control Style | Quick control input | Continuous or set control |
| Applications | Machines and control panels | Industrial control systems |
| User Effort | Simple press | Turn or rotate |
