When it comes to customizing your mechanical keyboard, one of the most important decisions is selecting the right material for your keycaps. The material you choose can drastically affect the feel, sound, and durability of your keypresses custom keycap. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together a comprehensive comparison of the most popular keycap materials used in the mechanical keyboard community.
1. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
ABS plastic is one of the most common materials for keycaps due to its affordability and versatility. Keycaps made from ABS tend to be lighter and have a smooth texture. However, ABS has some downsides that might affect your long-term experience.
- Pros:
- Affordable: ABS is one of the least expensive materials.
- Wide Availability: Many keycap sets are made from ABS, so you have a lot of options to choose from.
- Smooth Finish: ABS keycaps have a glossy, smooth texture that some users prefer.
- Cons:
- Durability: ABS keycaps can wear down quickly, especially in high-use areas. Over time, they may develop a shiny, worn-out appearance due to oils from your fingers.
- Sound Profile: ABS tends to produce a higher-pitched, plasticky sound when typing, which can be less pleasant for some users.
2. PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate)
PBT is a more durable and higher-quality material compared to ABS. It’s known for its ability to withstand wear and tear, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts who prioritize longevity and tactile feel.
- Pros:
- Durability: PBT keycaps are highly resistant to wear, fading, and shine, ensuring they remain looking and feeling new for longer.
- Texture: PBT keycaps have a matte finish and a more textured surface, which provides a more grippy feel compared to ABS.
- Sound Profile: PBT keycaps produce a deeper, more muted sound that many users find more pleasant than ABS.
- Cons:
- Price: PBT keycaps are generally more expensive than ABS, especially for high-quality sets.
- Heavier: PBT keycaps are denser, which might not appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch.
3. POM (Polyoxymethylene)
POM, also known as acetal, is a high-performance thermoplastic known for its strength and stiffness. While not as common as ABS or PBT, POM has been gaining popularity in the keyboard community due to its excellent durability and smooth feel.
- Pros:
- Durability: POM keycaps are incredibly tough and resistant to wear and fading.
- Smooth Feel: The surface of POM keycaps is extremely smooth, making for a satisfying typing experience.
- Sound Profile: POM keycaps tend to produce a softer, more muted sound, making them great for users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
- Cons:
- Price: POM keycaps are typically more expensive than ABS and PBT.
- Availability: You might find fewer POM keycap sets compared to the more popular materials.
4. ABS vs. PBT: Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re deciding between ABS and PBT keycaps, consider your priorities:
- If you’re on a budget or want a wide selection of colors and designs, ABS keycaps may be a good choice.
- If you want long-lasting durability and a more satisfying, textured typing experience, PBT keycaps are the way to go.
5. Keycaps Made from Metal or Resin
For those looking to push the envelope with their keyboard customization, you can find keycaps made from metal or resin. These materials are much rarer and are typically used for specialized, artisan keycaps.
- Metal Keycaps: These are often made of aluminum or stainless steel and can give your keyboard a unique, premium look. While metal keycaps are highly durable, they tend to be very heavy, which can alter the feel of your keypresses.
- Resin Keycaps: Resin keycaps can be handmade and are often designed to be highly artistic, featuring intricate designs or even color-shifting effects. They offer a truly unique aesthetic, but due to the complexity of their production, they can be quite costly.
6. Choosing Based on Keycap Profile
While material is an important consideration, the profile of your keycaps also plays a crucial role in your typing experience. Popular profiles include SA, Cherry, DSA, and OEM. Each profile has a different shape and height, and it’s essential to choose a profile that suits your typing style. Profiles can vary by material, so you might need to check if the material you want is available in the profile you prefer.
Conclusion
Choosing the best material for your keycaps is a matter of personal preference and priorities. If you value longevity and tactile feedback, PBT is likely your best bet. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, ABS can still provide a satisfying experience. For those after a more premium feel, POM or even metal and resin keycaps might be worth exploring.
