Push button switches are everywhere—from industrial machines to household appliances and medical equipment. But not all switches work the same way. Two common types you’ll encounter are momentary push button switches and latching push button switches. Mixing them up can lead to frustrating malfunctions (like a machine that won’t stay on) or even safety risks. Let’s break down their key differences, how they work, and how to pick the right one for your needs—with practical examples from ONPOW, a 37-year expert in push button manufacturing.
1. What's the Core Difference? It's All About “Stay” or “Snap Back”
The biggest distinction between momentary and latching switches boils down to one question: Does the switch stay in the position you press it to, or does it spring back?
Let’s use a simple analogy: Think of a doorbell (momentary) vs. a light switch (latching).
A doorbell only works while you press it—let go, and it stops. That’s momentary.
A light switch stays “on” when you flip it up, and “off” when you flip it down—no need to hold it. That’s latching.
2. Momentary push button Switches: “Press to Activate, Let Go to Stop”
How It Works
A momentary switch only completes or breaks an electrical circuit during the time you physically press it. As soon as you release the button, a built-in spring pulls it back to its original position, and the circuit shuts off. It’s a “temporary” action—no lasting change unless you keep pressing.
Common Uses
Momentary switches are for actions that need to be short-lived or controlled by constant pressure. Examples include:
Industrial machines: Emergency stop buttons (E-stop)—you press it to shut down the machine, and it resets when released (or with a separate reset).
Medical equipment: “Start scan” buttons on diagnostic machines (like X-rays)—the scan runs only while you hold the button, adding a safety layer to prevent accidental long-term activation.
Household devices: Doorbells, microwave “start” buttons (some models), or elevator call buttons.
ONPOW Momentary Options
ONPOW’s metal momentary push buttons (e.g., GQ16 series) are built for durability—ideal for industrial and medical use. They handle frequent presses (up to millions of cycles) and resist harsh conditions (dust, humidity, chemical cleaners), making them reliable for high-use scenarios.
3. Latching push button Switches: “Press Once to Turn On, Press Again to Turn Off”
How It Works
A latching switch “locks” into position after you press it, keeping the circuit open or closed even when you let go. To reverse the action (e.g., turn off a light), you press the button again—this releases the latch, and it snaps back to the opposite position. It’s a “toggle” action—each press changes the state permanently until the next press.
Common Uses
Latching switches are for actions that need to be long-lasting or stay in place without constant pressure. Examples include:
Industrial control panels: “Power on” buttons for machines—press once to start the machine, and it stays on until you press the button again to shut down.
Household appliances: Coffee maker “on/off” buttons, or lamp switches (the push button-style ones).
Automation equipment: “Mode select” buttons (e.g., “auto” vs. “manual” on a conveyor belt)—each press switches the mode and keeps it there.
ONPOW Latching Options
ONPOW’s latching switches (available in metal and plastic series, like F31 plastic series) are designed for stability. They use high-quality latching mechanisms to avoid accidental “unlocking” (critical for safety) and come with certifications like CE, UL, and CB—suitable for global industrial and commercial use.
4.Key Differences at a Glance (Table)
To make it easier, here’s how momentary and latching switches stack up:
|
Feature |
Momentary push button Switch |
Latching push button Switch |
|
Action |
Works only while pressed; springs back when released |
Locks in position after pressing; reverses with a second press |
|
Circuit State |
Temporary (on/off only during press) |
Permanent (stays on/off until next press) |
|
Spring Mechanism |
Built-in spring for immediate reset |
Latching mechanism (no reset until second press) |
|
Typical Use Case |
Emergency stop, doorbell, “start scan” |
Power on/off, mode select, light switch |
|
Safety Note |
Ideal for “interrupt” actions (e.g., E-stop) |
Better for “sustained” actions (e.g., machine power) |
5.How to Choose: 4 Simple Questions to Ask
Not sure which switch to pick? Answer these 4 questions, and you’ll have your answer:
Question 1: “Do I need the action to stop when I let go of the button?”
If YES → Momentary (e.g., E-stop, doorbell).
If NO → Latching (e.g., machine power, lamp).
Question 2: “Is safety a top priority for accidental activation?”
For actions that need a “hold to work” safety layer (e.g., medical scans, heavy machinery controls) → Momentary (you can’t accidentally leave it on).
For actions that need to stay on without supervision (e.g., factory conveyor belts) → Latching (no need to hold the button for hours).
Question 3: “How often will the switch be pressed?”
High-frequency presses (e.g., 100+ times a day) → Choose a durable option like ONPOW’s metal momentary switches (built for millions of cycles).
Low-frequency presses (e.g., once a day to turn on a machine) → Latching switches (their latching mechanism holds up well to infrequent use).
Question 4: “What environment will it be used in?”
Harsh environments (dust, humidity, chemicals—e.g., factories, hospitals) → ONPOW’s metal switches (momentary or latching) with IP65/IP67 protection (waterproof, dustproof).
Mild environments (offices, homes) → Plastic switches (e.g., ONPOW F31 latching series) for cost-effectiveness.
