Keypads are vital for interacting with electronic devices, but choosing the right one can be challenging with so many options available. Silicone rubber keypads stand out for their durability, design flexibility, and enhanced user experience.

In this post, we explore six key reasons why silicone rubber keypads are the best choice for your next project. Keep reading to learn more!

What is a silicone rubber keypad?

A silicone rubber keypad is an electrical switch designed using silicone rubber. It is typically used in both industrial and consumer electronic devices.

Also referred to as elastomeric keypads, silicone rubber keypads are made through compression molding.

This involves the placement and heating of pre-cured silicone rubber. Typical applications of this keypad solution include televisions, remote controls, calculators, digital locks, video game consoles, and kids’ toys.

Benefits of Using Silicone Rubber Keypads

The global conductive silicone rubber market size was estimated at USD 8.59 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 14.20 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.7% from 2025 to 2030. 

Electronic industry growth, particularly in the Asia Pacific, is expected to fuel the demand for lighting as well as wire applications.

Now, let’s look at silicone rubber keypads’ numerous benefits to see why they are popular. 

Safeguards equipment from dust and moisture

Both moisture and debris can be destructive when it comes to electronic devices.

To extend the lifespan of your equipment, you’ll therefore need to opt for dustproof and waterproof components where possible. 

The membrane in a silicone rubber keypad will effectively hinder the entry of moisture, dust, and particles. Elastomeric keypads are an excellent choice in environments where dust and moisture are concerned. 

Comfortable to use

Many users will not enjoy working with tough keypads that do not feel nice to the touch. Fortunately, this is not a concern with silicone rubber keypads. 

This type of keypad consists of soft and smooth keys that are enjoyable to click. With silicone rubber’s comfort offered, this material is a top choice for ergonomic keypads.  

Highly durable

An essential factor to consider when selecting a keypad is its durability and resilience. 

Silicone rubber keypads are highly durable, tested to standards like ASTM D1414, to withstand over 1 million cycles with minimal tactile degradation, outlasting many membrane keypad alternatives.

This will, in turn, boost the lifespan of your equipment, giving you more value for your money. 

Let’s look at some features that make this material highly durable. 

• Heat and cold resistance

Silicone rubber can withstand extreme cold and heat. This property is beneficial for engineering keypads, as extreme temperatures may be involved in these projects. 

• Abrasion resistance

Using a keypad involves continuously pressing the keys daily. Therefore, it’s advisable to opt for a switching solution that is wear resistant.

Elastomeric keypads also show better resistance to friction and scratches, making them durable and reliable. 

Further, silicone rubber features a fantastic general mechanical property. When subjected to different types and levels of force, the material will endure due to its elasticity, hardness, and tensile strength. 

Offer excellent tactile responses

Tactile response is the sensation that lets you know your input was registered using a keypad.

Depending on the type of keypad, tactile feedback can range from an audible pop to the feeling of the button pushing back on your finger.

This kind of response enhances the user experience since you can be sure that a key press was registered without verifying with the output component. 

While silicone rubber keypads are very soft and smooth, they offer excellent tactile feedback.

Pushing down on a key quickly makes the button ‘cave in.’ After releasing the button, it will immediately pop back to the initial position and regain its original shape.

This aspect makes silicone rubber keypads desirable as the user is always sure of the button’s response.  

Cost-effective

Silicone rubber keypads are an excellent choice for various electronic devices.

At the same time, these switching solutions tend to be cheaper compared to other market options. With elastomeric keypads, users will get excellent quality without breaking their budget.

Customers making bulk orders will undoubtedly save a significant amount with this option. 

Highly customizable

Silicone rubber keypads offer a wide degree of design flexibility. The material supports a range of functions and features, allowing users to obtain highly custom designs suited to their specific needs. 

For instance, clients can customize the shape and size of their keypads. If they’re interested in rubber keypad graphics, this effect can be achieved through either laser-etching or silkscreen printing.

Different colors can also be performed during the production process. What’s more, elastomeric keypads have backlighting flexibility.

The design options here are limitless, and users are assured of attaining their aesthetic goals. 

Conclusion

When choosing a keypad for your electronic device, it is essential to analyze your specific needs. You’ll then need to settle on the best option for these needs and objectives. 

Silicone rubber keypads are a popular choice for both consumer and industrial equipment, and with good reason – they offer durability, resilience, and good value for your money.

In addition, this switching solution is ideal for users seeking comfort and design flexibility. 

Trust Hongju for Your Rubber Keypad Needs

The experts at Hongju are dedicated to helping you obtain the ideal silicon rubber keypad.

Whether you’re seeking a complex or straightforward silicone rubber keypad design,  with fast 3-5 day prototyping and flexible low MOQs.

With over 20 years of expert craftsmanship, we ensure cost-effective, fully customizable solutions for superior tactile response and long-term reliability. Let us enhance your device’s performance and user experience.

FAQs 

Q1: What are the main advantages of silicone rubber keypads over other types?

Silicone rubber keypads offer superior durability, excellent tactile feedback, waterproofing, and high customizability, making them ideal for both consumer and industrial devices.

Q2: How durable are silicone rubber keypads in daily use?

With high resistance to wear, tear, and repeated pressing, silicone keypads can last for millions of cycles, ensuring long-term reliability and reduced replacement costs.

Q3: Are silicone rubber keypads cost-effective for bulk orders?

Yes, silicone rubber keypads are affordable compared to many alternatives, and bulk ordering from Hongju Silicone can significantly reduce per-unit costs without compromising quality.

Q4: How does Hongju ensure the quality of its silicone rubber keypads?

Hongju combines over 20 years of expertise, precision compression molding, strict quality control, and tailored design support to deliver durable, high-performance keypad solutions.