Touch-free vs push-to-exit buttons: which should you choose?
Exit buttons provide a convenient way to request release of an access controlled door. Two common options are conventional push-to-exit buttons and touch-free infrared exit buttons.
Both can provide a release signal to compatible equipment, but they differ in how they are activated and what they require for installation.
This guide explains the differences and what to consider when choosing an exit button.
What is a push-to-exit button?
A push-to-exit button is operated by physically pressing a button or plate.
Depending on the model, pressing it changes the state of electrical contacts connected to an access controller, relay or compatible locking circuit.
These devices may be labelled:
- Press to Exit
- Push to Exit
- Door Release
The wording and operating mechanism depend on the product.
What is a touch-free exit button?
A touch-free exit button allows the user to request door release without pressing the device.
Infrared models detect a hand presented within their sensing range and operate an electrical output.
Depending on the model, available features may include:
- Adjustable detection distance
- Adjustable output timer
- LED indication
- Changeover contacts
- Flush or surface mounting
- Toggle operation
These features vary between products, so check the individual specification.
What is the main difference?
A conventional push-to-exit button requires physical contact.
A touch-free infrared exit button detects a hand within its operating range.
Both need to be compatible with the connected control or locking equipment. Neither should be selected solely on appearance.
When is a push-to-exit button useful?
A push-to-exit button provides a familiar method of requesting door release.
It may be suitable where:
- A clearly identifiable physical button is preferred
- Straightforward operation is required
- A particular plate size or finish is needed
- The installation requires specific contact arrangements
- A suitable weather-resistant model is available
Some conventional buttons have a large operating area, while others are designed for narrow frames or confined mounting positions.
When is a touch-free exit button useful?
A touch-free button can be useful where users prefer to release a door without touching a shared control.
Typical applications include:
- Offices
- Reception areas
- Healthcare premises
- Educational buildings
- Shared entrances
- Commercial access control doors
Its suitability depends on the position, sensing range and surrounding environment.
Do touch-free buttons need power?
Infrared exit buttons generally require a power supply for their sensing electronics.
The required voltage and current draw depend on the model.
A conventional mechanical button may provide switching contacts without needing power for the switching action itself. However, illuminated or electronic versions can still require a supply.
Check the power requirements of the exact product.
What does an adjustable detection distance do?
An adjustable detection distance allows the sensing range to be set for the installation.
The button should detect a deliberate hand movement without being positioned where normal passing movement causes unwanted activation.
Check:
- The specified sensing range
- Nearby walls and surfaces
- Pedestrian movement
- The approach to the door
- The manufacturer’s installation guidance
Test operation in the installed position before putting the system into service.
What does the timer do?
A built-in timer controls how long the button’s output operates after activation.
This may allow a brief hand movement to produce a longer release signal.
The actual door release period can also depend on the access controller or other connected equipment.
Check how the button timer and controller settings interact.
Does touch-free mean touch-sensitive?
Touch-free and touch-sensitive describe different operating methods.
A touch-free button detects a hand without requiring contact.
A touch-sensitive button normally requires the user to touch its operating surface.
Check the product description carefully when choosing between infrared, touch-sensitive and mechanical exit devices.
What about flush and surface mounting?
A flush-mounted button normally requires a suitable recess or back box.
A surface-mounted button uses a housing fixed to the mounting surface.
The choice depends on:
- Wall or frame construction
- Available installation depth
- Cable entry
- Existing back boxes
- Preferred appearance
Some button ranges offer both mounting options.
Can an exit button replace an emergency door release unit?
An everyday exit button and an emergency door release unit serve different purposes.
An exit button is normally used to request release during routine operation.
An emergency door release unit provides a separate emergency release function within the specified system arrangement.
The required equipment and wiring depend on the door, locking system and emergency release strategy.
What should you check before ordering?
Check:
- Touch-free, touch-sensitive or mechanical operation
- Supply voltage and current draw
- Contact arrangement and rating
- Controller compatibility
- Detection range where applicable
- Timer requirements
- Flush or surface mounting
- Plate and housing dimensions
- Environmental rating
- Accessibility and operating position
- Emergency release requirements
Summary
Push-to-exit buttons provide a familiar physical control, while touch-free infrared buttons allow release requests without contact.
The right choice depends on the users, environment, mounting position and connected equipment.
Check the electrical requirements and operating features of the individual model before ordering.