How to Buy the Best Keycaps for Your Mechanical Keyboard
Keycaps are a vital part of any mechanical keyboard setup. They affect not just the look of your keyboard but also the feel, sound, and comfort of your typing experience. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about selecting keycaps, especially if you’re new to the hobby.
1. Make Sure the Keycaps Will Fit
A. Switch Compatibility
Most Common: MX-style switches (plus-shaped stem) – almost all modern keycap sets are compatible.
Alternatives:
Alps (minus-shaped stem)
Topre/EC (circular stem)
Kailh Choc (two-pronged stem)
These alternatives are not compatible with MX keycap sets.
B. Keyboard Layout Compatibility
Standard layouts are widely supported.
Unique layouts (e.g., HHKB Studio) may require specific keycap kits.
C. Coverage
Some sets exclude numpad, arrows, or function row keys to reduce base price.
Ensure the set you purchase includes all keys you need.
2. Keycap Profiles and Sculpts
A. Height Categories
High-profile (e.g., SA)
Medium-profile (e.g., OEM, Cherry)
Low-profile (e.g., Choc, flat keycaps)
B. Row Sculpting
Sculpted Profiles: Different angles/heights by row (e.g., Cherry, SA)
Uniform Profiles: All rows have the same shape (e.g., SA uniform, PBS)
C. Face Shape (Sculpt)
Cylindrical: U-shaped surface (common in Cherry, OEM)
Spherical: Bowl-shaped surface (e.g., SA, OSA)
Flat: Minimal or no curvature (for low-profile or ortholinear boards)
3. Keycap Materials
A. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
Bright colors, smooth feel
Prone to developing shine over time
Produces higher-pitched sound
High-end examples: GMK, Signature Plastics
B. PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate)
More durable and textured
Resistant to shine
Slightly muted colors
Deeper sound signature
C. Ceramic
Deep, marbly sound
Smooth and slick feel
Modern versions have plastic stems to prevent breakage
D. Metal
Heavy, crisp feel
Expensive ($200+ per set)
Fit issues more common
Cold touch that warms up with use
4. Printing, Sublimating, and Other Lettering Methods
A. Doubleshot
Plastic legend inside plastic keycap
Extremely durable and vibrant
Available in both ABS and PBT
B. Tripleshot
Adds a third plastic color for sub-legends
Rare and expensive (used for Japanese legends)
C. Dye Sublimation
Dye is embedded into PBT plastic
Very durable
Less vibrant on darker keys
D. Reverse Dye Sublimation
Dye everything except the legend
Tricky process; results vary
E. UV Printing
Multicolored legends
May fade or wear over time
F. Pad Printing
Inexpensive; wears off fastest
5. Buying Methods
A. In-Stock Sales
Immediate shipping
Most reliable method
B. Group Buys
Preorder-like model
Helps meet minimum production quantities
Risky if vendor has poor reputation or mismanages funds
C. Preorders
Midway between group buy and in-stock
Less risk, but often involves waiting
Summary Table
| Category | Options / Examples | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Switch Support | MX, Alps, Topre, Choc | Wide MX support | Non-MX often excluded from mainstream sets |
| Profile Height | SA (high), Cherry (medium), Choc (low) | Typing comfort and preference | May need wrist rest with higher profiles |
| Material | ABS, PBT, Ceramic, Metal | Feel, durability, acoustics | Varies in cost and availability |
| Legend Method | Doubleshot, Dye-sub, UV, Pad | Longevity, clarity | Cost and print durability varies |
| Sales Method | In-stock, Group Buy, Preorder | Choice of availability vs rarity | Time, trust, and fulfillment concerns |
Final Tips
Know your layout and switch type before shopping.
Choose a profile and material that suit your typing style.
Prioritize printing method if you care about the look and durability of legends.
Buy from reputable vendors to avoid risks with group buys.
This guide is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of the world of keycaps so you can make an informed, satisfying choice for your keyboard setup.
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