So, What Makes a Keycap Truly Great?
When it comes to keyboards, we often talk about switches, layouts, and brands. But keycaps play a huge role in the typing experience! Whether you’re gaming, coding, or writing your next big project, the material of your keycaps can make or break your comfort, durability, and overall satisfaction.
I’ve tested tons of keycaps over the years, and let me tell you—there’s a massive difference between cheap, flimsy plastic and high-quality keycaps that feel buttery smooth under your fingers.
I myself have suffered a lot with certain keycaps and my god it seems silly, but only those who are affected by bad material know how horrible it is to have a bad keycap.
Today, I’m go into the world of keycap materials, breaking down what makes each one unique, and how they affect your typing.
Before we get into it, if you’re a keyboard enthusiast like me, check out my other articles:
- Why Keyboard Enthusiasts Love Artisan Keycaps
- The Science Behind Key Switches: How They Work
- The Most Durable Mechanical Keyboards in 2025
Alright, let’s break down the best keycap materials and their impact on your typing experience! 🚀
ABS vs. PBT vs. POM – What’s the Difference?
Not all keycaps are created equal. The most common materials used for keycaps are ABS, PBT, and POM. Each one has its own feel, durability, and sound profile. Let’s go over them in detail:
1. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) – The Budget King
ABS is one of the most widely used keycap materials, and if you’ve ever used a stock keyboard, chances are you’ve typed on ABS keycaps.
Pros:
✅ Affordable – Found on most pre-built keyboards. ✅ Smooth texture – Initially has a nice, soft feel. ✅ Allows for shine-through – Great for RGB setups.
Cons:
❌ Wears out fast – Becomes shiny and greasy over time. ❌ Less durable – Can feel cheap compared to other materials.
ABS keycaps tend to develop a glossy shine after months of use. If you’ve ever had keycaps that looked worn down and slippery, those were ABS.
🔗 Want to know why some keyboards wear out faster than others? Check out The Biggest Keyboard Myths Debunked!
2. PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) – The Enthusiast’s Choice
PBT keycaps are considered the gold standard for durability and feel. They have a slightly rougher texture, making them more resistant to oil and wear.
Pros:
✅ Extremely durable – Won’t develop shine quickly. ✅ Matte texture – Offers a premium, grippy feel. ✅ Resistant to fading – Dye-sublimated legends last longer.
Cons:
❌ More expensive – Often costs more than ABS. ❌ Thicker and heavier – May not be ideal for ultra-light switches.
Most high-end mechanical keyboards feature PBT keycaps because of their superior durability and premium feel. They also produce a deeper, more satisfying thock when typing, which is why they’re preferred by many keyboard enthusiasts.
3. POM (Polyoxymethylene) – The Underrated Gem
POM is a lesser-known but fantastic material for keycaps. It’s super smooth, durable, and resistant to wear.
Pros:
✅ Buttery smooth – Feels amazing to type on. ✅ Highly durable – Won’t wear down easily. ✅ Unique sound – Slightly softer and deeper than PBT.
Cons:
❌ Harder to find – Not as common as ABS or PBT. ❌ Expensive – Usually costs more than ABS.
If you’re looking for a premium typing experience, POM keycaps might be your new favorite. Some high-end keyboards use POM for a luxurious feel, and if you’re into smooth keystrokes, these are a must-try.
How Do Keycap Materials Affect Typing?
1. Sound Profile 🔊
The material of your keycaps significantly impacts the sound of your keyboard. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- ABS – Higher-pitched, “plasticky” sound.
- PBT – Deeper, more “thocky” sound.
- POM – Soft and muted, with a smooth feel.
If you love deep thocks and satisfying acoustics, PBT or POM keycaps are the way to go!
2. Feel and Comfort 🖐️
- ABS – Smooth at first, but gets greasy over time.
- PBT – Textured and durable, great for long sessions.
- POM – Buttery smooth, excellent for rapid typing.
Want the best typing comfort? PBT is the safest bet for long-term use, while POM is ideal for effortless gliding across keys.
3. Aesthetics and Customization 🎨
- ABS – Best for RGB lighting effects.
- PBT – Best for longevity and custom prints.
- POM – Looks sleek but limited color options.
If you’re all about custom keyboards, check out The Most Unique Keyboards Ever Created for inspiration!
FAQs – Click the Arrows for Answers
▶ Which keycap material is the best for gaming? PBT is best for durability and grip, but some gamers prefer ABS for its smoothness and RGB compatibility.
▶ Do expensive keycaps make a difference? Absolutely! Premium keycaps last longer, feel better, and improve typing acoustics.
▶ Can I mix different keycap materials on my keyboard? Yes, but it might affect your typing consistency and sound profile.
See More
- Mechanical Keyboards in Pop Culture: Movies, TV Shows & Games
- How the Keyboard Community is Growing on Reddit and Discord
- The Most Unique Artisan Keycaps You Can Buy
Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Choice?
At the end of the day, your choice of keycap material comes down to personal preference. If you love a premium feel and deep sound, PBT or POM is the way to go. If you’re more into vibrant colors and smooth typing, ABS can work just fine!
As I said, I’ve been through bad situations with keycaps, so I think this topic is important to address, but overall, test it and see.
What are your favorite keycaps? Drop a comment below and let’s discuss! 💬 And if you found this helpful, don’t forget to share this article with your fellow keyboard enthusiasts! 🚀
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