Button

‍Best Practices

Buttons should feel approachable, responsive, and easy to find within the interface. A clear label and concise styling help people quickly identify how and when to interact. In mobile contexts, it’s especially important to provide enough touch-friendly space.

When a screen offers multiple actions, consider highlighting the most important one as a primary button, using a distinct color or style. Secondary or tertiary actions should remain accessible but less visually dominant, reducing potential confusion about where to tap first. Always include visual or tactile feedback—like a color change, ripple, or elevation shift—so users know their tap has been registered.

Style

Buttons typically feature rounded corners and moderate padding, aligning with iOS conventions that emphasize clean, minimal shapes. This approach helps them stand out from text links or other interface elements, reinforcing a clear “pressable” affordance. Consistent spacing between multiple buttons ensures a coherent layout and prevents accidental taps.

Color and Contrast. Use a color scheme that aligns with the app’s brand while maintaining high contrast between button text and background. This balance supports accessibility and legibility in various lighting conditions.

Typography. Button labels often use a slightly bolder or more prominent text style than surrounding content, guiding attention to interactive possibilities. Avoid decorative fonts that may degrade readability on smaller screens.

Content

A button’s label should succinctly describe the action it performs (e.g., “Submit,” “Next,” or “Save”). Keeping text short and direct prevents wrapping on small displays and helps users scan options quickly. In some cases, pairing an icon with text can provide extra clarity, but it’s best to maintain adequate spacing so the icon doesn’t overwhelm or crowd the label.

If the action has multiple steps or context (like “Sign Up” vs. “Log In”), ensure the button label accurately reflects the outcome. For destructive or high-stakes actions—such as deleting or resetting data—use a clear label (e.g., “Delete” instead of a vague “OK”) and consider a distinct color (often red) to alert users to potential consequences.

Role

Primary Call-to-Action. The main button for completing a task—like confirming a purchase or submitting a form—should stand out and guide the user’s eye.

Secondary Actions. Often presented as text-only or with a less dominant background color, secondary buttons help users accomplish supporting tasks or navigate alternatives.

Tertiary and Link Buttons. These may appear inline or as minimal text-based elements, guiding users to related actions or additional details without demanding immediate attention.

Destructive Actions. Used for irreversible or potentially risky operations. Visually distinct styling (e.g., a red fill or outline) can reinforce caution.

By thoughtfully integrating these guidelines, designers can ensure that buttons remain clear, accessible, and visually balanced across mobile interfaces. This careful attention to size, style, and labeling promotes a more intuitive and efficient user experience.