Choosing between buttons and links is essential when designing user interfaces because it affects how users interact with your product. Here are some key considerations:
When to Use Buttons:
- Actions: Buttons are typically used for actions that change the system’s state or content, such as submitting a form, saving changes, or starting a process. They signal that something will happen when clicked.
- Primary Actions: Use buttons to highlight the most crucial action on a page. For example, a “Submit” button on a form or a “Buy Now” button on a product page.
- Interactive Elements: Buttons are generally larger, more visually distinct, and designed to be interactive, which makes them ideal for actions that require user interaction.
- Touch Targets: Buttons are often used for touch interfaces because they are easier to tap due to their size and shape.
When to Use Links:
- Navigation: Links are best for navigation, such as when you want to guide users to different pages, documents, or sections within the same page.
- Secondary Actions: A link might be more appropriate if an action is not the primary focus. For example, “Forgot Password?” is usually a link because it’s a secondary action.
- Non-Disruptive Actions: Links are often used when the action won’t dramatically change the page state or when users might want to open the link in a new tab.
- Textual Context: Links work well when the action closely relates to a text. For example, “Read more” links are shared in articles or content-heavy pages.
Visual Distinction:
- Buttons should stand out visually to indicate they are the primary call-to-action. This can be achieved through color, size, and placement.
- Links should be underlined or colored differently from the surrounding text to signal they are clickable, but they shouldn’t overshadow buttons or other essential elements.
Best Practices:
- Consistency: Maintain a consistent style for buttons and links throughout your application or site to help users quickly understand what each element does.
- Accessibility: Ensure that visually impaired users can easily distinguish buttons and links. Use clear labels and make sure they can be operated with a keyboard.
- Avoid Overusing Links: Too many links can clutter a page and make it easier for users to decide where to click. Prioritize key actions with buttons, and use links sparingly for less critical actions.
Choosing between a button and a link often depends on the context and the specific action you want users to take.