Abstract: A pushbutton switch having a contact actuating member movable in the direction of actuation, and a restoring spring which is loaded when the actuating member is depressed. A laterally resiliently deflectable detent element engages an inclined cam surface on the actuating member. When the member is depressed, the cam surface moves downwardly over the detent element causing the element to be laterally deflected, thereby releasing the detent mechanism. Thereafter, the actuating member is then free to move on against the force of the restoring spring.