Touch Target Sizes for Motor Impairments
On a touchscreen, every button and link is something you have to tap accurately. For people with tremors, limited dexterity or larger fingers, tiny tap targets crammed together are a constant source of frustration and mistakes.
Generous, well-spaced targets make a site easier for everyone to use — not least anyone tapping on a moving bus.
Size and Spacing Guidance
WCAG and platform guidelines recommend a comfortable minimum size for tap targets, with space between them to prevent accidental taps.
| Aspect | Recommendation | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum size | Around 44×44 pixels | Comfortable for most fingers |
| Spacing | Clear gaps between targets | Prevents tapping the wrong control |
| Placement | Avoid screen edges where possible | Easier to reach one-handed |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this only apply to mobile?
It matters most on touchscreens, but generous targets also help mouse and trackpad users with motor impairments on any device.
What if our design is quite compact?
We can keep a tight visual style while still giving each control a larger invisible tappable area, so the look stays neat without punishing people with shaky hands.
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.