Switching device

In a switching device (1) for converting a mechanical movement into an electrical switching signal, comprising a housing (2) and an electrical switching element (3) that is connected to the housing (2) and can be moved relative to it, the switching device (1) should, firstly, occupy a significantly reduced space and, secondly, be manufactured exceedingly cost-effectively and can be connected to a circuit board (13) in a simple and straightforward manner without the circuit board (13) restricting or reducing the space available for the switching device (1). This task is accomplished in that the housing (2) and the switching element (3) enclose a space (5), that at least one switching contact (11) is provided in the base (6) of the housing (2) and that the particular switching contact (11) projects in the direction of the switching element (3) and beyond the outer contour of the base.