Advantages of Silicone Keypads

Posted by Christopher Ferrell on August 30th, 2017

As devices require more adaptable keypads to stand up to stress and daily use, silicone has emerged as an ideal material for use in smartphone keypads and other electronic device keyboards. A silicone keypad, sometimes called an elastomeric keypad, can be water-resistant, heat-resistant, and sensitive to pressure while remaining quiet and safe to use. These keypads can be used in smartphones, remote controls, commercial control panels, and even children’s toys.

Water-Resistant

Silicone can be used in applications which require watertight seals and can be an excellent option for smartphones and other devices where water can damage the device. The water resistance of silicone also makes it easy to clean and less likely to corrode.

Heat-Resistant

Silicone is both heat and cold resistant, which can be ideal for electronic devices. This heat resistance can be used to insulate electronic components from shock and radiation. Silicone is often used in cookware like baking sheets, baking molds, and steamers. Other forms of silicone, such as silicone oil, can be used to lubricate electronics and medical devices.

Pressure Sensitive

Since silicone can have a rubbery texture, it can be ideal for a silicone keypad on a smartphone or electronic device. This sensitivity can transfer pressure cues to a metal frame below to create an input into the system. Feedback can be tactile and responsive. Silicone does not have conductive properties, but this can have advantages of safety and reliability. The texture of silicone can also be appealing to consumers who use their devices on a regular basis.

Quiet

When depressed or stressed, silicone can make very little sound. This can be appealing in medical applications where quiet use is necessary, but it can also have broad commercial appeal. Consumers can use devices like phones with silicone keypads which do not disturb those around them.

Safe

Silicone is generally considered safe to use and non-toxic. It can be less susceptible to bacteria and microbes than other commercial materials. Silicone can also be recycled and can be considered eco-friendlier than materials like plastic.  Because of its safety rating, silicone is often used in medical and personal care, including razors and baby bottle nipples.

Silicone can be molded and inked into virtually and shape and color, which makes it ideal for custom keypads. A silicone keypad can be almost unlimited in terms of size or design. Silicone can also be made to transmit some amount of backlight so a keypad can be read in the dark. Silicone can also be fairly affordable, making it the perfect choice for electronic manufacturing.