Momentary vs. Maintained Footswitches: What’s the Difference? 

If you’ve ever used a footswitch, you already know how helpful it can be to keep your hands free while working. But not all footswitches behave the same way, and depending on the job, that behavior can make a real difference. 

The two most common types are momentary and maintained. They might look similar at first glance, but once you step on them, they operate very differently. Understanding how each one works can help you choose the type that fits best with the equipment and environment you’re working in. 

What’s a Momentary Footswitch? 

A momentary footswitch only stays active while your foot is pressing it. The second you lift your foot, it turns off, like a car horn: press and hold to activate, release to stop. 

This type of switch gives you real-time, precise control. It’s often used when you need equipment to respond only while you’re actively engaging it. 

Common examples of momentary switch use: 

• Dispensing fluids in measured amounts during lab work. 

• Activating surgical tools for short, controlled use. 

• Triggering a weld or cut in fabrication. 

• Stepping through automated testing processes. 

In setups where accuracy and timing are key, momentary switches can offer better control. 

What’s a Maintained Footswitch? 

A maintained footswitch works more like a toggle. You press it once to turn the equipment on, and it stays on, even after your foot comes off. Press it again, and it turns off. 

It’s kind of like using a light switch with your foot. This type of switch comes in handy when you want equipment to stay on without having to hold the pedal down. 

Where maintained switches are often used: 

• Keeping conveyor belts running on factory floors. 

• A standard light switch flip it once, and it stays on until flipped again.  

• Running machines that operate for extended periods. 

Maintained switches can help reduce fatigue and make longer processes more comfortable. 

When Might You Use Each Type? 

Choosing between momentary and maintained switches depends on how your equipment needs to behave. 

You might consider a momentary switch if: 

• You need precise control that stops instantly. 

• The process should only run while being supervised. 

• Safety or timing depends on stopping right away. 

You might lean toward a maintained switch if: 

• You don’t want to keep your foot on the pedal. 

• The equipment runs for longer periods without interruption. 

• It’s more efficient for the machine to stay in its last state. 

Final Thoughts 

Momentary and maintained footswitches both give you hands-free control, but in very different ways. One stops when you let go. The other keeps going until you tell it to stop. 

Understanding how they differ can help you find the right match for your task, making your work smoother, safer, and more efficient. If you’re looking for more guidance or want help choosing the right switch for your setup, visit linemaster.com or reach out to our customer service team by phone or email, they’re here to help you figure out what fits best.