With sharp, consistent tactile feedback, low profile, low cost and environmental seal, PushGate pushbutton switch also addresses mechanical issues of collapsing domes, teasing problems, early failure, and inconsistent actuation force. These switches have been tested to more than 400 million reliable actuations. The switches have a distinct click when pushed and released without the spongy feel of typical dome membrane switches. The flat panel design is easily sealed for extreme environments. Maximum voltage is 50 Vdc, 50 mA or ac for the rigid base, and 30 Vdc, 20 mA or ac peak for the film base.