Segmented

Segmented button groups display a set of discrete buttons in a row as a single element.

Segmented
<h6>Segmented</h6>
<ul class="usa-button-group usa-button-group--segmented">
  <li class="usa-button-group__item">
    <button class="usa-button">Map</button>
  </li>
  <li class="usa-button-group__item">
    <button class="usa-button usa-button--outline">Satellite</button>
  </li>
  <li class="usa-button-group__item">
    <button class="usa-button usa-button--outline">Hybrid</button>
  </li>
</ul>

When to use the segmented button groups

  • Categorically related controls. For example, segmented buttons can be used as a switch between different views.

When to consider something else

  • No clear relationship. Consider how placement and alternative structure of unrelated controls can improve usability over placing all actions in a group.
  • If there are more than three buttons. Be mindful of how a long list of buttons might appear on small screens. An alternative type of control might be more suitable.

Usability guidance

  • Avoid ambiguity of current state. Make sure current states are clearly communicated and understood.

Accessibility

  • Use aria-label to give the buttons a useful name. Some contexts may require additional context provided to screen readers.
  • Use the <button> element. Don't use <a> because it's a link. Don't use <span> because screen readers won't know it's a usable button.

Implementation

  • Don't mix differently-sized buttons (like a default button and a big button) in the same group.
  • Use short, descriptive button labels to describe controls.
  • Use default buttons as a current state and outline buttons as a non-current state. The segmented button group works with all button variants. However, you may need to create custom styles to distinguish state for some button variants.

Package information

  • Package usage: @import usa-button-group
  • Requires: required, global