The toggle is a piece of hardware or software that has two positions, on and off. In a computer, it’s used to turn on and off specific functions such as Caps Lock or Num Lock. Similarly, in software, it’s used to switch between different menu items.
It’s also a verb meaning to switch or alternate: “She toggled between the stream and map views of her travel itinerary.”
In user interface design, the toggle is a type of control that allows users to update preferences or settings without having to click Save, Submit or other input. When used properly, toggle switches can make a significant difference in the experience of your users.
When using a toggle, be sure to use clear labeling and standard visual design. Also, consider using a high-contrast color for states (on and off) to increase clarity and ensure that users can easily see the current state. In addition, be aware of societal and cultural differences when using toggles, as they may not be intuitive to all users.
Toggles are great for quickly changing content on your site or application. However, they should be used sparingly and with caution. For example, if you have multiple options that can be toggled, it might be more appropriate to use a radio button instead, as they are more familiar and provide the same effect. Also, be careful with the directional properties of toggles; they might not work as expected on RTL sites.
