A tact switch, short for tactile switch, is a small, momentary push-button switch used in electronic devices to make or break a circuit temporarily when pressed. It is called “tactile” because it provides a noticeable physical feedback or “click” when activated, letting the user feel that the button has been pressed.

Tact switches are usually normally open, meaning the circuit is off until the button is pressed, and they automatically return to their original position when released. They are commonly used in keyboards, remote controls, calculators, and other small electronic devices where compact, reliable, and responsive switches are needed.

In simple terms, a tact switch is a tiny button that completes a circuit only while you press it, giving a physical click to confirm the action.