Push-Button Switches

Look for an illuminated push button switch for easy switching on and off The most common colors for illuminated buttons are green and red, but they also typically come in white, blue, yellow and orange. Illuminated switches are easy to locate in the dark and during the daytime, and different colored push-button switches can help differentiate between switch functions.

I recommend:  Use illuminated push buttons anywhere you'll need to press a button in the dark, including a main switch for the office, garage or home flood lights. If you have a switch with two functions that requires two buttons, or want a two-function button for convenience on a garage door or similar device, check out dual illuminated push buttons for multiple functions.

Use rocker switches or paddle handles for push button light switches If you're looking for a push button light switch, rocker switches combine the large, easy-press functionality of a push button with the back-and-forth switch motion of a typical light switch. Rocker switches are easy to switch on and off, but also make it obvious if a device is switched on or off before you press.

I recommend:  Rocker switches are ideal for a computer push button or other on-off device, and are often labeled like computer switches. Illuminated paddle handles are another good choice for a push button light switch and have the added benefit of being lighted for easy location in the dark.

Check out novelty push-button switches for games or arcades If you're designing a game that requires the use of a button, or if you're refurbishing or redesigning existing arcade games or other push-button games, look for fun, multi-colored novelty buttons. Push-button switches that are oversized, exaggerated, or perform a variety of functions like a joy stick or track ball are great for use in any game and can be purchased individually from many push button manufacturers.

I recommend:  Check out the mega push button or the joystick push button if you're working on an arcade game. These buttons are fun to press and engage even small children, and the joystick push button combines several uses to simplify game control wiring.

Get push button switch plates for protection As with regular light switches, switch plates for push buttons hide the wiring and make buttons and switches blend into the surroundings. Switch plates come with multiple combinations of openings for buttons and switches, so when you purchase an electrical push button, don't forget to get a switch plate to cover the casing.

I recommend:  Switch plates are especially good to use if you're installing an electrical push button in your home or office and want it to look professional, or are installing the push button next to an existing switch and need to cover both. While industrial push button switches may require less aesthetic appeal, a switch plate is still good to protect the wiring and minimize electrical hazards.