What is the difference between membrane and tactile switches?
August 20, 2025
Membrane switches and tactile switches differ in the following aspects:
Structural composition:
Membrane switch：It is an integrated structure that includes a panel, a switch, and a conductive circuit. The top layer is usually a panel made of PET or PC with text or patterns, the middle layer is a double-sided tape made of PET for isolation, and the bottom layer is the upper contact and connection circuit made of PET material. When the button position on the surface is pressed by a finger, the button contact and the corresponding position of the lower contact meet to form an electrical connection.
Tactile switch：Its internal structure is composed of metal shrapnel, and it cannot function independently. It must be used in conjunction with a PCB to form a complete switch control system.
Working principle:
Membrane switch：When pressure is applied to the surface of the membrane switch, the conductive layers come into contact to create an electrical connection, thus turning on the switch. Some membrane switches use metal domes or other mechanisms to provide a subtle tactile response, but generally, the tactile feedback is not very pronounced.
Tactile switch：When the button is pressed, the metal shrapnel inside deforms, causing the contacts to close and the circuit to conduct. When the pressure is removed, the metal shrapnel rebounds and the circuit is disconnected. It provides a clear physical click or bump, allowing the user to know that the switch has been activated.
Appearance and size:
Membrane switch：It can be customized in different sizes, appearances, and colors according to customer requirements, with a relatively flexible shape. The overall height is usually not more than 5 mm, and it has a thin and flat characteristic.
Tactile switch：It is a standard part, and its size and related parameters need to comply with industry standards. The color is relatively single, and its height is generally higher than that of membrane switches.
Durability:
Membrane switch：Although it is also durable, under heavy use, especially in high-stress environments, the conductive layers may wear out, resulting in a shorter service life.
Tactile switch：Due to its mechanical components, such as metal shrapnel, which usually have good elasticity and wear resistance, tactile switches are typically more durable and are often rated for millions of actuations.
Cost and price:
Membrane switch：The production process involves silk screen printing, die-cutting, etc. It can be independently formed into a complete control system, and the cost and price are relatively high, and are more affected by raw material prices.
Tactile switch：The production process includes stamping, injection molding, etc. It cannot function independently and needs to be used with a PCB. The cost and price are relatively low, and there is no large price adjustment due to fluctuations in raw material prices.
Application scenarios:
Membrane switch：Suitable for occasions where a thin and flat structure is required, and customized designs are needed, such as various electronic product control panels, medical device operation interfaces, etc.
Tactile switch：Widely used in products that require a clear tactile feedback, such as computer keyboards, mouse buttons, remote control buttons, etc.
