There are distinct differences between the two, ranging from ease of use to functionality to look and feel. Certain work applications may work best with touchscreens, and there are other applications where physical keypads work best. The one you choose for your work environment will depend heavily on the environment, conditions and type of work you do.
Touch screens may be the new trend right now, but when designing a user interface for a particular product, one must consider what the primary uses are. Yes, touch screens may look pretty cool, but they’re not ideal for certain situations. Custom silicone rubber products may be more beneficial in those circumstances. In your decision, consider fingerprint marks, feel, durability, maintenance and cost.
1. Durability
A main difference between a touch screen and silicone rubber keypad is durability. Whereas a touch screen can be scratched by debris or fingernails, silicone rubber keypads can take a lot more abuse. When scratches occur to a touch screen, this can make it more difficult to press buttons or see what you’re looking at. Sometimes you can’t even use a touch screen if you’re wearing gloves. You can wear gloves, even thick work ones, when pressing silicone rubber keypads. On top of all that, silicone can be used in extreme hot and cold environments, with no effect on function.
2. Fingerprint Marks
Touch screens are popular, and have been for decades, but they still pose one big problem for many users: fingerprint marks. All those smudge marks make it hard to see the selections or press the necessary buttons. This means you have to take time out of your day to clean off the screen for proper use. It doesn’t even matter if you have just washed your hands…you’ll still transfer marks onto the screen. Silicone keypads don’t have this problem. Even if oil marks get transferred from your fingers, these won’t affect function.
3. Click Response
It can be strangely satisfying to hear a distinct click when you hit a button. You don’t get that with a touchscreen. In fact, you may keep repeatedly jabbing a particular button to get the result you want. With the distinct click or snap of a silicone button depression, you know you’ve gotten the selection right the first time. Not only do silicone rubber keypads give you a distinct response, you can also adjust the snap ratio according to your preferences.
4. Price
Cost is a big concern when choosing between touchscreen or silicone. Did you know the price tag of a silicone keypad is much lower than that of a touch screen? Yes, touch screen prices have been falling over the years due to recent technology, they are still vastly more expensive than silicone rubber keypads.
In addition to the initial cost, you should also think about the cost of ongoing maintenance of the user interface. Touch screens are notoriously difficult to fix or replace, and usually require the help of a specialized technician. Custom silicone keypads are an inexpensive, durable and long-lasting interface solution that lasts many years after touch screens have worn out.
Contact Si-Tech
We have more than 75 years of experience in silicone keypad design and molding, so you can rest assured we give top attention to customer satisfaction with the highest quality products. To learn more about our custom silicone rubber keypad designs, contact us now.
