Device Selection Guide: Switches

Assistive switches can help people with disabilities independently access anything from computers and smartphones to switch-adapted toys and appliances. These may also be referred to as adaptive switches, or access switches. Assistive switches can also be used to supplement or in place of controllers for adaptive gaming. On a toy, for instance, imagine instead of having to use a high level of dexterity to grab and move a tiny on-off switch, you could instead tap a large button that's easy to target and press. Or use a switch that detects minor hand movements so that you don't even have to press anything. The possibilities are endless. Switches come in many different shapes and sizes, and address many different needs. To help you choose the right switches for your needs, we've created a guide comparing the various switches in our Assistive Device Library, as well as through various assistive device distributors.

Open Source Switch Options:

The assistive switches below all are open-source options. You can build them yourself or with a friend (i.e., DIY, DIT) or submit a request through the Makers Making Change site to connect with a volunteer maker to have it made for you (requestors are responsible for covering the cost of materials and any shipping). Visit the linked title of each of the devices for further details.

Intended Users: New to switches, looking for a trial,

Mode of Activation: Pressure 

Activation Force: Variable

Cost (CAD): $51-$100

Shape: Variable

Dimensions (LxWxH cm): Variable

Mounting Methods: Tape, Glue, Velcro

Additional Requirements: None

Intended Users: New to switches, looking for a trial

Mode of Activation: Pressure 

Activation Force: Variable

Cost (CAD): $26-$50

Shape: Variable

Dimensions (LxWxH cm): Variable

Mounting Methods: Tape, Glue, Velcro

Additional Requirements: None

Intended Users: Minimal gross motor control

Mode of Activation: Pressure

Activation Force: 36 gf (0.35 N)

Cost (CAD): $11-$25

Shape: Cylindrical

Dimensions (LxWxH cm): 8.5x8.5x2 (Height variable due to customizable button)

Mounting Methods: Screws, Velcro, Jellybean switch mounts

Additional Requirements: None

Intended Users: Minimal dexterity, Minimal motor control

Mode of Activation: Pressure

Activation Force: 133 gf (1.3 N)

Cost (CAD): $11-$25

Shape: Variable

Dimensions (LxWxH cm): Variable

Mounting Methods: Worn (custom fit)

Additional Requirements: Warm water for molding pellets

Intended Users: Gross motor control

Mode of Activation: Inhale/Exhale

Activation Force: 0.57-2.32 psi

Cost (CAD): $101-$250

Shape: Rectangular

Dimensions (LxWxH cm): 6x11x2

Mounting Methods: Velcro, T-nut threads

Additional Requirements: None

Intended Users: Minimal motor control, mouth input

Mode of Activation: Pressure

Activation Force: 51 - 153 gf (.5-1.5 N)

Cost (CAD): $11-$25

Shape: Rectangular

Dimensions (LxWxH cm): 3.5x13x4

Mounting Methods: 1/4" rod with thumbscrew, Thread on

Additional Requirements: None

Intended Users: Targeting difficulty, minimal dexterity

Mode of Activation: Proximity

Activation Force: Not Available

Cost (CAD): $11-$25

Shape: Housekey

Dimensions (LxWxH cm): 14.5x8x1.5

Mounting Methods: Tape, Velcro

Additional Requirements: Some amount of light, battery

Intended Users: Gross motor control, difficulty targeting

Mode of Activation: Pressure 

Activation Force: 56 gf (0.55 N)

Cost (CAD): $26-$50

Shape: Rectangular

Dimensions (LxWxH cm): 4x3x21 (Height variable due to handle design)

Mounting Methods: 1/4"-20 UNC Thread

Additional Requirements: Mounting

Intended Users: Minimal to gross motor control

Mode of Activation: Pressure

Activation Force: 133 gf (1.3 N)

Cost (CAD): $11-$25

Shape: Rectangular

Dimensions (LxWxH cm): 16.5x7x1

Mounting Methods: Tape, Velcro

Additional Requirements: None

Intended Users: Minimal motor control, low dexterity

Mode of Activation: Pressure

Activation Force: 133 gf (1.3 N)

Cost (CAD): $5-$10

Shape:  Rectangular

Dimensions (LxWxH cm): 8x3x3

Mounting Methods: Tape, Velcro

Additional Requirements: None