Should toggle button show its current state or the state to which it'll change? (2010) (ux.stackexchange.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the design of toggle buttons, specifically whether they should show their current state or the state they will change to when clicked. The comments reveal a debate about the best approach, with some arguing that it should be obvious what the current state is and what the state will change to. The discussion also touches on the importance of clear and consistent design, particularly in situations where the user may not have immediate feedback, such as with audio controls. The ideal design should balance clarity, simplicity, and user intuition.

Main themes

• toggle button design
• user interface clarity
• state vs action indication
• skeuomorphic design
• user feedback and intuition
• design trade-offs and constraints

What commenters say

• Toggle buttons should clearly indicate both their current state and the state they will change to when clicked.
• Using a separate indicator, such as a light, can help clarify the current state of a toggle button.
• Some argue that showing the action rather than the state can lead to confusion, while others believe it is more intuitive.
• Clear and consistent design is crucial, especially in situations where user feedback may be delayed or indirect.
• The use of labels or text can help disambiguate the meaning of a toggle button, but may not always be feasible due to space constraints.
• Skeuomorphic designs, such as using a light to indicate a button's state, can be effective but may also be misleading if not implemented carefully.
• The design of toggle buttons should prioritize simplicity, clarity, and user intuition to avoid confusion and frustration.