Tactile switches are a subgroup of pushbuttons. They are also known as short-stroke switches or tactiles. They are sold by numerous well-known manufacturers and are used in consumer electronics, automobiles, medical equipment, industry, IT, and elevators. They have a broad spectrum of possible applications. Tactile switches differentiate themselves from classic push-buttons by an additional function: the user is provided with tactile feedback as soon as the input has been registered using a built-in resistor. In health or safety critical applications, tactile switches give the user the assurance that an input has been completely executed.

Specific examples for tactile switches are the use on control boards for various electrically operated devices. These include door drives, heating controls and lifting platforms. Depending on the control concept, several tactile switches are often used on these boards.