A select dropdown is recommended when there are more than 7 options available because the form becomes cluttered and long. However, if the user almost always needs to the change the value (the default is rarely right), then you may want radio buttons even if there are more than 7 options.
- In which situation should you use a radio button or checkbox?
- When should checkboxes be used?
- Why would you choose a radio button instead of a checkbox?
- When should you use radio buttons vs combo boxes?
In which situation should you use a radio button or checkbox?
Radio buttons are used when we need to pick a single option out of various available alternatives. A checkbox authorises us to choose one or more options.
When should checkboxes be used?
Checkboxes are used when there are lists of options and the user may select any number of choices, including zero, one, or several. In other words, each checkbox is independent of all other checkboxes in the list, so checking one box doesn't uncheck the others.
Why would you choose a radio button instead of a checkbox?
For example, you should use radio buttons when you want the user to be able to select only one option from the available choices. In contrast, if you're giving multiple selection choices to your users, you should use the checkboxes field.
When should you use radio buttons vs combo boxes?
As mentioned, usually if your options for selection are greater than 3 or 4 items, then use a combo box. However, there are exceptions, because using radio buttons show all the options at one time. The other biggest consideration in this comparison is the dynamicism of the options.