Keyboards are essential tools for both work and play, and the comfort and overall experience are often closely linked to the keycap material. As the surface of each individual key, the keycap significantly influences the typing experience, durability, and appearance of the keyboard. Nowadays, you can choose from a variety of materials, each with unique properties to suit different user preferences. This guide will delve into some of the most popular keycap materials, enabling you to make a well-informed decision when selecting the ideal keycaps for your setup.
ABS Keycaps
ABS plastic is a widely used and cost-effective keycap material, prized for its ability to produce lightweight, slim keycaps and its ease of processing and coloring, which enables a broad range of design options. However, due to the soft nature of ABS, the surface may lose its gloss over time, often developing an oily or worn appearance. To improve durability, many manufacturers treat ABS keycaps with special processes to enhance their strength and corrosion resistance.
PBT Keycaps
PBT keycaps are a popular option in the high-end market. PBT has excellent wear resistance, which means it can maintain its texture and roughness over time without becoming smooth like ABS. PBT keycaps are also better at resisting wear and tear, and they maintain their luster far longer than ABS. With superior heat resistance and enhanced corrosion resistance, PBT keycaps are a staple in premium mechanical keyboards. Their slightly textured surface offers a more tactile and satisfying feel, ensuring both comfort and longevity for extended typing sessions.
POM Keycaps
POM is a premium thermoplastic resin renowned for its remarkable durability and self-lubricating properties. Keycaps made from POM offer a smooth, effortless typing experience, complemented by exceptional resistance to both corrosion and friction. Additionally, POM's moisture resistance minimizes friction between the fingers and the keycap surface. Although POM keycaps are relatively expensive, their long-lasting durability and superior tactile feedback make them a preferred choice for high-end keyboards.
PC Keycaps
PC keycaps are distinguished by their high-gloss finish and are frequently featured in premium keyboard designs. Polycarbonate, a transparent and rigid material, provides excellent protection against surface wear. Due to its strong plasticity, PC keycaps are typically lightweight and easy to mold, allowing for a wide variety of designs and colors. However, with prolonged use, PC keycaps are prone to yellowing, which can affect their appearance.
Metal Keycaps
Metal keycaps, crafted from materials such as aluminum, titanium, or copper, are often featured in high-end custom keyboard. These keycaps provide a substantial, weighty typing experience, delivering a premium tactile sensation. However, they are also much heavier than plastic keycaps, which may cause hand fatigue during extended use. Additionally, metal keycaps are prone to collecting oil and grime, requiring frequent cleaning. While they are not as easy to customize in terms of design or color as plastic keycaps, many users choose metal keycaps for their aesthetic appeal and unique look.
Crystal Keycaps
Crystal keycaps, typically crafted from acrylic, are both rare and luxurious, offering a visually captivating appeal. Their transparent material allows for striking visual effects, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Crystal keycaps are predominantly found in collector-level keyboards and are favored by users who prioritize customization and aesthetic design. Although they are highly decorative, crystal keycaps are fragile and require careful maintenance to avoid damage, limiting their durability compared to other materials.
