Why Are 16mm, 19mm, and 22mm Push Buttons So Popular?
When selecting a push button switch, many equipment manufacturers naturally choose 16mm, 19mm, or 22mm mounting sizes. These three specifications have been widely adopted across industrial equipment, automation systems, control panels, and self-service devices for many years.
So why are they so popular? ONPOW shares a few practical reasons.
16mm Push Buttons: Ideal for Compact Equipment
The 16mm push button is commonly used in devices where installation space is limited. Its smaller size allows engineers to fit more functions into a compact control panel without affecting operation.
Typical applications include:
Medical equipment
Testing instruments
Security systems
Communication devices
Smart control products
Although compact, modern 16mm push buttons still offer features such as LED illumination, waterproof protection, and multiple contact configurations.
19mm Push Buttons: A Well-Balanced Solution
Many customers consider the 19mm push button to be the most versatile option.
Compared with 16mm models, the button surface is slightly larger and easier to operate. At the same time, it does not require as much panel space as a 22mm switch.
Common applications include:
Access control systems
EV charging stations
Vending machines
Self-service terminals
Automation equipment
For products that need both a professional appearance and comfortable operation, 19mm is often the preferred choice.
22mm Push Buttons: The Industrial Standard
If you look inside industrial control cabinets around the world, you will find that 22mm push buttons are extremely common.
Their larger operating area makes them easy to press, even when operators are wearing gloves. The larger size also improves visibility on busy control panels.
They are widely used in:
Industrial machinery
Manufacturing lines
Electrical control cabinets
Power distribution equipment
Emergency stop systems
Many industrial standards and panel designs are based around 22mm mounting holes, making installation and replacement straightforward.
Standard Sizes Make Design Easier
Another important reason for the popularity of these three sizes is standardization.
Because 16mm, 19mm, and 22mm dimensions are widely recognized in the industry, equipment manufacturers can:
Simplify panel design
Reduce engineering time
Find replacement parts more easily
Maintain consistency across product lines
Source components from global markets
This helps lower maintenance costs and improves long-term product support.
Suitable for Different Functions
Whether the mounting size is 16mm, 19mm, or 22mm, customers can usually choose from a variety of configurations, including:
Momentary or latching operation
Illuminated or non-illuminated versions
Stainless steel or plastic housings
Waterproof designs
Different LED colors
NO, NC, or combined contacts
This flexibility allows the same mounting size to be used in many different industries and applications.
Final Thoughts
The continued popularity of 16mm, 19mm, and 22mm push buttons is not a coincidence. These sizes have proven themselves over years of practical use, offering a good balance between installation space, ease of operation, durability, and compatibility.
For compact devices, 16mm is often the right choice. For general-purpose equipment, 19mm provides excellent balance. For industrial control applications, 22mm remains one of the most trusted standards worldwide.
As a professional push button switch manufacturer, ONPOW offers a complete range of 16mm, 19mm, and 22mm push button switches to meet the requirements of different industries and applications.