Slider

Slider control enables users to select a specific value from a predefined set by dragging a thumb along a track.

Introduction

The slider component enhance user experience by providing a quick and intuitive way to adjust settings. It is particularly useful for adjusting parameters within a continuous or discrete scale, making it easier to explore multiple options efficiently

Anatomy

1.
Label: describes the purpose of the slider (e.g., "Select coverage amount").
2.
Helper text (Optional): provides additional guidance or context for the user.
3.
Minimum value: the lowest selectable value (e.g., 0).
4.
Track (bar): the line along which the thumb moves, visually representing the range.
5.
Maximum value: the highest selectable value (e.g., 100).
6.
Input field (Optional): displays the selected value, allowing manual input.
7.
Tick marks (Optional): small indicators on the track that represent key increments.
8.
Thumb: the draggable element that allows users to adjust the value.
9.
Selected value indicator: highlights the current value along the track.

Key interactions and features

Sliders provide an intuitive way for users to adjust values dynamically by interacting with a draggable thumb. Depending on the implementation, sliders can offer various interaction methods and features to enhance usability.

1.
Dragging the thumb
Users can click and drag the thumb along the track to adjust the value.
In discrete sliders, the thumb snaps to predefined increments.
In continuous sliders, the thumb moves smoothly without fixed steps.
2.
Clicking the track
Users can click anywhere on the track to move the thumb directly to that position.
In some implementations, clicking moves the thumb instantly, while in others, it may animate toward the new position.
3.
Keyboard support
Users can adjust the slider using the arrow keys for precise control:
Left / Down arrow: decrease value.
Right / Up arrow: increase value.

Variants

Sliders come in two variants: discrete and continuous. Choosing the right variant depends on whether precise steps or smooth adjustments are needed.

Discrete slider

Allows users to select only predefined values along the track.

Each step is marked, and the thumb "snaps" to these values.
Best for limited, meaningful choices where precision matters.

Continuous slider

Lets users select any value within the range, without fixed steps.

Offers smooth, fine-grained control over the selection.
Best for gradual adjustments where any value is valid.

Best practices

Provide a clear label and context

Use a descriptive label that explains what the slider controls (i.e., instead of "Adjust value", use "Select your coverage amount.").
Add helper text if additional guidance is needed.

Set logical minimum and maximum values

Ensure the range matches real-world expectations (e.g., an insurance deductible slider should not start at $0 if the lowest option is $250).
Keep increment steps meaningful (e.g., increments of $10 instead of $1 for large ranges).

Allow manual input when precise values are needed

Some users prefer entering a value directly instead of using the slider.
Providing the input field next to the slider helps with this.