On/off switch guidelines

The on/off switch control allows you to toggle a setting on or off.

Styles

When creating an on/off switch, you can choose to have the toggle on the left or right of the label.

Left-aligned

Left-aligned on/off switches have the toggle on the left-hand side of the label. This is sometimes found on desktop interfaces.

Right-aligned

Right-aligned on/off switches have the toggle on the right-hand side of the screen. This is particularly common on touch screens, as it makes it easier for most users to reach it.

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Labels

Like most other input fields, the clearer the label, the easier it is for the user to understand.

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States

On/off switches change their state or appearance so that users know what the current setting is.

Off

When the on/off switch is in the off state, the setting will be turned off.

On

When the on/off switch is in the on state, the setting will be active.

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Best practices

There are a few best practices when it comes to on/off switches.

On/off switches vs. radio buttons

On/off switches are very similar to radio buttons in that they both are single selectors: there can only ever be one option selected. However, unlike radio buttons, an on/off switch can only have 2 options, which usually relate to something being active or inactive.

When you should use on/off switches:

• If there are only 2 options.
• If the 2 options relate to something being "On" or "Off" or being "Active" or "Disabled".
• If you want the action to be instant. When you toggle an on/off switch, it should instantly make the change. Whereas with a radio button you have to click a 'save' or 'submit' button to implement and confirm the radio button’s action.

When you should use radio buttons:

• If there are more than 2 options.
• If the options aren’t referring to something being on or off.
• If you want the user to confirm the setting by clicking save or submit.

Only use on/off switches for settings

On/off switches are usually used in settings areas and not in forms. If you have a yes/no question that doesn’t relate to settings, use a radio button instead.

On/off switches on phones

Since approximately 90% of the population is right-handed, it's become customary to put controls on the screen's right-hand side. Given this, consider putting the switches in reach of their thumb on the right-hand side.

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Variations

You can choose to use other variations of on/off switches.

DIY Symbols

Make your own Symbols in Balsamiq using other pre-made controls.

Toggle button: Using a circle button and an icon, you can create a toggle button. The user can click the buttons on and off to set whether they should be active or not. Consider adding labels below, as some users may not understand what the icons mean.

On/off switch with an icon: You can add an icon to your on/off switch to make it more attractive.

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