Examples described may relate to methods and systems for gesture based switch for machine control. Some machines may be operated by computing devices that include touchscreens, and a graphical user interface (GUI) is provided for enabling control of the machines. Within examples, a disconnect switch can be incorporated into the GUI. As one example, to initiate operation of a machine, such as a robotic device, a user may be required to contact the touchscreen at a location and then trace out a pattern. To enable continued operation of the machine, the GUI may require the user to maintain contact with the touchscreen at a “goal” position. If contact with the touchscreen is broken (e.g., for more than a threshold amount of time), the machine operation may be halted, and the process to initiate operation can be performed again on the touchscreen to cause the machine to resume operation.