How to choose the appropriate load range of silicone buttons?

As an indispensable component in electronic products, the load (key strength) of silicone keypads directly affects the user's operating experience and product life. Different application scenarios have different requirements for the load of silicone keypads. How to scientifically select the appropriate load range? This article will provide you with a detailed analysis from the aspects of industry standards, application scenarios, material characteristics, etc.

一、Basic concept of silicone button load

Actuation Force refers to the force required to press a silicone keypad, usually in grams (gf) or Newtons (N). Appropriate load can ensure that the key feels comfortable and rebounds sensitively, while avoiding accidental touches or fatigue operations.

Generally speaking, the load range of silicone keypads is between 50gf and 500gf, and the requirements of different products vary greatly.

For example:

Light touch buttons (50gf~150gf): Suitable for frequently operated devices such as remote controls and smart watches

Medium load (150gf~300gf): Commonly used in Keyboards and home appliance control panels

High load (300gf~500gf): Mostly used in industrial equipment, medical instruments and other anti-mistouch scenarios

二、What are the key factors affecting the load of silicone buttons?

1. 1. Application scenarios determine load requirements

Consumer electronics (such as remote controls, Mobile Phone buttons):require light touch operation, recommended load 50gf~150gf

Industrial control panels: require anti-mistouch and durability, usually load 250gf~400gf

Automotive buttons: require both touch and vibration resistance, recommended 180gf~300gf

2. Silicone hardness and structural design

Silicone hardness (Shore A): The higher the hardness, the stronger the key rebound force and the greater the load. The common hardness range is 30°~70°.

Key structure: Silicone keypads with metal domes or carbon particles

have higher loads, while pure silicone keys are softer.

3. User experience and durability

High-frequency operation devices (such as keyboards) require moderate loads (150gf~250gf) to avoid finger fatigue.

Waterproof/dustproof keys may require higher loads to ensure sealing.

三、 How to test and verify the appropriate load?

1.Hand feel test: Invite the user group to experience the actual pressing and evaluate the comfort.

2.Life test: Pass more than 100,000 pressing tests to ensure load stability.

3.Force-displacement curve analysis: Use professional equipment (such as load tester) to measure the trigger force and rebound performance of the button.

四、 Industry Trends: Customized Load Solutions

With the diversification of electronic products, more and more manufacturers are adopting customized silicone key load solutions,

such as:

Adjustable load design: For example, mechanical keyboards support the replacement of silicone pads of different hardness

Intelligent tactile feedback: Optimize the key feel through pressure sensors.

五、Conclusion

To select the appropriate load range for silicone buttons, factors such as product usage, user habits, and material properties need to be considered comprehensively. It is recommended to cooperate with a professional silicone button supplier to find the best balance point through testing and optimization to enhance product competitiveness.

This article is technically supported by CMAI INTERNATIONAL LIMITED. If you need customized silicone button solutions, please contact us!