Choosing between a Select dropdown and Radio buttons can impact how fast and easily users fill out your form. Here's a simple guide to help you decide.
Use Radio buttons when:
There are 2 to 4 options
All options are visible, so it’s quick to choose.The choice is important
For example, if the answer changes what comes next in the form.You want users to see all choices clearly
Helps them compare and decide faster.
Use a Select dropdown when:
There are 5 or more options
Dropdowns save space and keep things tidy.The choice is not very important
It won’t affect other parts of the form.You have limited space
Good for mobile or long forms.
Quick comparison
Situation |
Use Radio buttons |
Use Dropdown |
|---|---|---|
2–4 options |
✅ |
❌ |
5+ options |
❌ |
✅ |
Show all options clearly |
✅ |
❌ |
Save space |
❌ |
✅ |
Important choice |
✅ |
❌ |
Less important |
❌ |
✅ |