Buttons are essential for user interaction in any interface. In MUI, you can choose from several Button variants, each serving a unique purpose. The contained Button is designed to emphasize primary actions and stands out due to its filled background. Use it for the main action on a page, such as Submit or Save. The outlined Button offers a more subtle look with a border and no fill, making it suitable for secondary actions that need attention but should not overshadow the primary action. The text Button is the most minimal, presenting only text with no border or background, ideal for less prominent actions like Cancel or navigation links within a dialog.

Here is how you might use each variant in your React components:

Each variant helps you guide users toward the most important actions while keeping your interface visually balanced.

Incorporating icons into buttons enhances clarity and provides immediate visual cues for users. MUI makes it straightforward to add icons, especially for common actions such as "Add," "Delete," or "Edit." You can combine a Button with an icon by placing an MUI icon component inside the Button. For actions that are purely icon-based, such as toolbars, use the IconButton component for a compact, accessible control.

Example: buttons with icons for adding, deleting, or editing items

By pairing icons with text or using standalone IconButtons, you make actions more intuitive and visually appealing.

When designing buttons and icon buttons, accessibility must be a top priority. Screen readers and assistive technologies rely on clear labeling and semantic HTML to interpret interactive elements correctly. For buttons with only icons, always provide an aria-label that describes the action, such as aria-label="delete" for a delete icon button. This ensures that users who cannot see the icon still understand the button's purpose. Additionally, ensure that buttons are focusable and can be operated with a keyboard, supporting users who navigate without a mouse. Consider color contrast and avoid relying solely on color or iconography to convey meaning, so all users can interact with your interface effectively.