Types of keycaps

When people think about mechanical keyboards, they often focus on switches, layouts, or backlighting. Yet, the feel and appearance of your keycaps can make just as much of an impact. From the material they’re made of to their profile and texture, keycaps significantly influence both comfort and style. Let’s explore the major keycap types you’ll run into and see how they might fit your setup.

Why Keycaps Matter

Your keycaps determine how each keystroke feels against your fingertips, how your keyboard looks under various lighting conditions, and even how long your keyboard will stand up to wear. The good news? Keycaps are often interchangeable. If you ever want a fresh aesthetic or an improved feel, simply swap them out. For a glimpse of the variety available, you can browse our Keycaps Collection.

Common Materials

1. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Known for its smooth texture and bright colors, ABS is often found in stock keyboards. While it can be prone to shine over time, many enthusiasts still prefer the crisp legends ABS plastic can achieve.
2. PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate): Popular for its durability, PBT is resistant to fading and shine. The texture is usually more matte and grippy, which many find more satisfying to type on.
3. POM (Polyoxymethylene): Less common than ABS or PBT, POM keycaps have a slightly slippery but premium feel. They’re extremely durable and often appear on high-end sets.
4. Exotic Materials: Occasionally, you’ll see keycaps in metals like aluminum or brass, or in resin-based artisan designs. These are more about aesthetics and collectibility.

Looking to complement a new set of keycaps with a matching board or cables? Check out our Accessories for themed cables and wrist rests, or explore Mechanical Keyboards if you’re interested in a fresh start.

Keycap Profiles

Beyond materials, the profile of a keycap changes how it feels and looks. Some common profiles include:

• OEM: A default, medium-height profile often shipped with many keyboards.
• Cherry: Slightly lower than OEM, Cherry keycaps have a reputation for comfort over long sessions.
• XDA or DSA: Uniform, flatter profiles that some find more modern. Great for those who prefer a consistent feel across all rows.
• SA: Tall and sculpted with a classic vintage vibe, favored by fans of retro aesthetics.

The difference in height and curve affects how your fingers land on each key, which can boost comfort or add style. If you’re seeking a more distinct look, you can pair your favorite profile with keycaps in interesting colors or patterns from our Keycaps Collection.

Artisan and Custom Keycaps

Artisan keycaps are a world of their own. These hand-designed or 3D-printed pieces often depict intricate artwork—from mythical creatures to pop culture icons. While they usually replace just one or a few keys on your board (like Escape or Enter), they can become a statement piece.

If you’re collecting artisans, you may want to consider a keyboard layout that shows them off. A 60% or 65% board might highlight those unique caps more prominently. Browse our Gaming Keyboards if you’re into compact layouts with lots of flair.

Selecting the Right Keycap Set

When choosing your next set, ask yourself:

• What’s my priority—durability or color variety? PBT tends to hold up better, while ABS offers vibrant color options.
• Do I have a specific profile preference? OEM or Cherry might be more ergonomic; SA or XDA can bring a unique look and feel.
• How important is sound? Different materials and profiles affect the pitch of each keystroke.

Remember, you can switch out your caps at any time, giving you freedom to experiment. If you ever need guidance or want more info about compatibility, our store, Eloquent Clicks, is here to help.

Final Thoughts

Keycaps go far beyond mere aesthetics; they can significantly alter both the typing feel and long-term satisfaction you get from using your keyboard. Whether you’re after a bold color scheme, a texture that’s comfortable for gaming marathons, or a certain acoustic profile, there’s a perfect set for you out there.

Explore different materials, experiment with profiles, and don’t be afraid to add a touch of artistry with custom caps. Your keyboard is more than just a tool—it can be a reflection of your style and personality.

Happy customizing!