Another rank article, but in this time i’ll say about keycaps, that tricky plastic that helps a lot with your comfort when typing or playing games.
I decided to write this article because there is a lack of content about keycaps on YouTube or other platforms, and as someone who likes computers, I think it is very necessary for people to understand about keycaps.
Remembering that like all ranking articles here on the site, I will base all the content on my experience with pbt, abs and double-shot, all with my opinion.
Which Is PBT, ABS and Double-Shot ?
Keycaps are small plastics that cover the keys, they are very useful for personalization, comfort and for the design of your keyboard, they can also identify the key that has it, leaving the key’s function still functional.
Double shot is basically the fusion of PBT with ABS.
PBT and ABS are the most common types of keycaps, ABS is easier to use, while PBT has greater resistance, both are good, but since today’s article is a comparison, the two will be compared in many points, including my personal use below.
PBT keycap it’s my daily option. I personally use it on my work because:
- It resists: months of use = still matte.
- Feels solid: consistent texture.
- Tactile magic: good for type.
Here’s what you can do with PBT:
- Code for hours.
- Play all day..
Meanwhile for me abs is better to use, I have friends who use them, and my friends say it is good in:
- More color options, friendly to use, smooth feel..
If you like changing styles, ABS is totally your home.
Double‑Shot keycaps combine two layers of plastic for built good keycaps. Usually built with ABS or PBT.
Why I use they:
- Perfect for led keyboards.
Things to consider:
- They cost more—about 1.5–2× ABS price.
- Depends on the base plastic (ABS = smoother, PBT = textured).
PBT vs ABS Comparison
Bellow a table about PBT and ABS keycaps:
| Feature | PBT | ABS | Double‑Shot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | Extremely high | Moderate | High |
| Cost | Good price (~$30–50 set) | Low price (~$15–30 set) | High price (~$45–80 set) |
| Feel | Matte, grippy | Smooth, slick | Varies (usually smooth or semi-matte) |
| Legends | Dye‑sublimated (fade-resistant) | Printed (can fade) | Molded (never fade) |
| Sound | Loud | Bright clack | Depends on base plastic |
| Backlighting | Less vibrant | OK | Excellent |
The Best Keycap
As I always say, it depends a lot on your preferences, below are some lists of keycaps that you should consider a lot when choosing your keycap, talking specifically about those who like to use these keycaps.
- PBT fans
- Typists and coders
- Heavy desktop workers
- ABS fans
- People on a budget
- Color collectors and aesthetic fans
- Double-Shot fans
- Gamers
- Want a premium look
The Highlights of Each Keycap
Below is a summary of the main highlights of each keycap, especially when I used each of them a lot:
- PBT Dye-Sub Set – Tactile heaven for writing.
- ABS Rainbow – Good to looks for your desktop.
- Double-Shot LED Set – Good for gaming time.
See More
- The Best Keycaps Ranked: PBT vs. ABS vs. Double-Shot
- Office Keyboards Tier List: Ergonomic vs. Traditional Keyboards
- The Best and Worst Mechanical Switches: A Tier List
Final Thoughts
The bottom line is that keycaps make a difference, but they are not mandatory and there are many versions available. I already mentioned above which ones I use, but honestly they are not mandatory items for your keyboard.
So my personal conclusion is:
- I like PBT for my daily typing
- For RGB gaming setups, double‑shot ABS (or PBT)
- ABS art keycaps are great for occasional flair.
Below are some articles about the content of foldable keyboards and even how to clean keyboards correctly and without risks. Below is a quick list for you to check out.:
If you enjoyed this massive guide, share it with your friends, and comment below.
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