The Best Keycaps - 2021
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Our Picks For The Top Keycaps
Stunning LookThese keycaps let more light shine through for a neat visual.
Durable and ResistantThese keycaps are resistant to wear, friction and solvents.
Satisfying KeystrokesThese keycaps have extra-thick walls designed for intensive gaming.
Perfect in the DarkGet a milky effect with these keycaps on your RGB keyboard.
If you’re a gamer with a mechanical keyboard, you know one of the best ways to upgrade your keyboard is with a new set of keys. You can completely change the look and feel of your keyboard to enhance your gaming experience.
Most keyboards come with mass-produced keycaps that are dull and plain. If you’re spending hours each day at your keyboard, it’s much more exciting to have something lively and fun to look at. Not only do keycaps come in stunning colors with cool effects, you can also get them made from more durable materials so they won’t fade or break with heavy usage. With so many different types of keycaps available though, how do you choose the set that’s right for you?
One of the most important elements to consider when you’re buying new keycaps is the material they are made out of. The two most common options you will find are ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate). ABS is the more affordable choice, and it’s typically also quieter when typing. The material has a shiny look that can wear over time. PBT is more costly and creates a satisfying sound when used. The look is more matte and textured than ABS. This material is also highly durable.
The Best Keycaps
HyperX Black Translucent PBT Keycaps
Create a cool effect and let more light shine through with these black keycaps. They are made from a durable double shot PBT material with thick walls. The keycaps are designed to be resistant to wear, friction and solvents.
Features
Specifications
HyperX White Translucent PBT Keycaps
These white keycaps are highly durable and perfect for heavy-duty use. They are made from a double shot PBT material and have thick walls. The design allows more light to shine through to create a stunning look.
Features
Specifications
COSTOM Mechanical & Optical Keyboard PBT Keycaps
These keycaps are ideal for intensive gamers who prefer extra-thick walls. The keycaps are fade resistant and backlight compatible. They can work with most mechanical keyboards.
Features
Specifications
HK Gaming PBT Color Topped Keycaps
These keycaps create a unique milky effect on your RGB gaming keyboard. They are widely compatible with multiple switches. The keycaps create a magical atmosphere.
Features
Specifications
Hyekit Botanical PBT Keycaps
These ergonomic keycaps provide a long-lasting, comfortable experience. They can be used with most mechanical keyboards and are easy to install. They keycaps are designed for durability and will not fade.
Features
Specifications
Our Keycap Buying Guide
If you’re a gamer with a mechanical keyboard, you know one of the best ways to upgrade your keyboard is with a new set of keys. You can completely change the look and feel of your keyboard to enhance your gaming experience.
Most keyboards come with mass-produced keycaps that are dull and plain. If you’re spending hours each day at your keyboard, it’s much more exciting to have something lively and fun to look at. Not only do keycaps come in stunning colors with cool effects, you can also get them made from more durable materials so they won’t fade or break with heavy usage. With so many different types of keycaps available though, how do you choose the set that’s right for you?
One of the most important elements to consider when you’re buying new keycaps is the material they are made out of. The two most common options you will find are ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate). ABS is the more affordable choice, and it’s typically also quieter when typing. The material has a shiny look that can wear over time. PBT is more costly and creates a satisfying sound when used. The look is more matte and textured than ABS. This material is also highly durable.
DWYM Fun Fact
Does your keyboard have RGB lighting? If so, then you will want to go with double shot or pudding keycaps, which let light shine through. Double shot keycaps are made with two separate plastics during the injection molding process to create the keycap. This enables the light from the keyboard to shine through the legends, making them easier to read. Pudding keycaps, which are also double shot, illuminate more than just the legend. They also enable light to shine through the sides of each keycap.
The Keycap Tips and Advice
- Many people have a specific preference when it comes to the profile, or overall shape, of the keycap. Common varieties include flat and rounded keycaps. Some styles include different rows of keys having a particular height to create a concave or sloped shape on your keyboard.
- Uniform keycaps have a flat top, while sculpted keycaps have a slightly angled surface. The benefit to having a sculpted keycap is that your fingers don’t have to stretch as far when typing. Most people prefer sculpted keycaps, but some like the look of the uniform variety. Many gamers prefer a cherry profile for their keycaps. This is a sculpted variety that is efficient and comfortable to use.
- Before purchasing your keycap set, make sure that it is compatible with the size and layout of your keyboard. Some keycap sets are for tenkeyless layouts, so it’s important to check for a match before you get a new set. Keep in mind some keyboards have a differently sized Enter key on the right-hand side, so it’s best to make sure your keycaps will fit it properly.
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About The Author
Anam Ahmed is a professional copywriter and essayist based in Toronto. She has been writing on technology, travel, parenting and business for over 10 years. As a homeowner and avid gardener, she values finding the best products to make people's lives easier. Anam earned a master's degree from the University of Toronto and a bachelor's degree from Queen's University.