For OEM and EMS buyers, selecting a tactile switch is not only a technical decision. It is also a question of price stability, lead time, and supply reliability across the entire product lifecycle.
This article focuses on best-selling tactile switch families that are proven in mass production, available in high volume, and optimized for automated assembly lines.
1. What OEM & EMS Buyers Need from a Tactile Switch
When your factory builds thousands or millions of units, a “good” tact switch is one that:
- Has stable long-term pricing
- Is available from stock or with predictable lead time
- Supports multiple actuator heights and forces without redesigning the PCB
- Comes in bulk or Tape & Reel packaging for SMT lines
- Is backed by a supplier that understands OEM and EMS logistics
Suntan’s tactile switch line is designed with these requirements in mind.
2. Top Recommended Series for Volume Projects
For most OEM/EMS projects, the following tactile switch series are the primary choices:
- TC-0102 – General-purpose tact switch for a wide range of control panels
- TC-0010 – Compact footprint for space-constrained designs
- TD-03 – SMD tact switch series ideal for automated SMT lines
- TD-06 – SMD low-profile series for slim HMI and portable devices
These families cover the majority of common actuator heights and operating forces, allowing engineering to re-use one PCB footprint while sourcing different feel options for different models.
3. Bulk Supply and Competitive Pricing
For OEM and EMS buyers, cost and predictability are as important as technical specs.
- Bulk tactile switch supply
High-volume orders can be supported with buffer stock and scheduled shipments to match your production plan. - Competitive pricing strategy
By focusing on a defined set of best-selling series, Suntan can offer aggressive pricing while keeping material and process consistency. - Price stability over lifecycle
For long-running platforms, cost consistency matters more than one-time spot discounts. The target is a stable cost structure that supports multiyear production.
4. Packaging for Automated Production Lines
Production efficiency depends on the right packaging format:
- Tape & Reel for SMD (TD-03 / TD-06)
• Compatible with standard pick-and-place machines
• Minimizes mis-pick or component damage
• Ideal for global EMS facilities operating on 24/7 lines - Bulk or Tube for TH versions (TC-0102 / TC-0010)
• Flexible for both wave solder and selective solder processes
• Suitable for mixed SMT + THT assembly flows
When you send your BOM, indicate your preferred packaging format to avoid surprises at the line-setup stage.
5. Global EMS and Multi-Site Production
Modern projects often run across multiple EMS sites in different regions. A good tactile switch strategy:
- Uses standardized, globally available part numbers
- Keeps the same electrical and mechanical spec across regions
- Allows local EMS to purchase from regional channels without changing the design
Suntan’s tact switches are already used in projects assembled in Asia, Europe and other regions, which helps reduce qualification effort when adding a new factory.
6. Lead Time and Supply Chain Advantages
A stable tact switch supply chain gives you:
- Shorter lead time for ramp-up and ECO changes
- Better resilience against spot shortages
- Easier forecasting, because your core series are always available
By concentrating on best-selling series such as TC-0102 / TC-0010 / TD-03 / TD-06, Suntan can maintain stock and raw material planning tuned to OEM and EMS demand patterns.
7. How to Start: BOM Review and RFQ
If you are planning a new project or reviewing an existing BOM, you can:
- Browse tactile switch options and datasheets
- Send your inquiry or drawings
- Email: info@suntan.com.hk
- via our contact page
- Provide expected annual volume, target price range, required force/height, packaging format (Tape & Reel or bulk) and production locations. This helps us propose the most suitable series and pricing ladder for your OEM or EMS project.