When it comes to customizing your keyboard, changing keycaps is often the first thing enthusiasts do. It’s the quickest and easiest way to refresh your setup with a new look and a different typing feel.
But do you really understand how different keycap materials and manufacturing methods affect your typing experience? Let’s explore the two most common types — ABS and PBT — and find out which one suits you best.
Common Keycap Materials
Most keycaps on the market are made from plastic or metal, with ABS and PBT being the two most popular types of plastic used in keyboard manufacturing.
ABS Keycaps
ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a strong and versatile thermoplastic polymer known for its impact resistance and smooth finish. It’s the most widely used material in the keycap industry.
Pros:
Budget-friendly due to low production cost. It is easy to dye, allowing for brighter and more colorful legends; It offers a soft and smooth typing feel that many people enjoy.
Cons:
ABS is of low density, which makes it prone to wear and tear, and shine after being used for a period of time. Thus, ABS keycaps have a shorter lifespan.
PBT Keycaps
PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) is a denser and more durable plastic known for its resistance to heat, wear, and fading. It is preferred by more manufacturers and consumers now.
Pros：
PBT has a higher density compared to ABS, making it wear-resistant and legends maintain after long-term use. If you are a typist or gamer, it is recommended to choose a PBT keycap.
Cons:
PBT keycaps are more expensive than ABS ones. The manufacturing process is more complicated, and it is difficult to dye, making PBT keycaps with less vibrant colors.
Moreover, PBT keycaps have a slightly rough and solid typing feel, but they are a good choice for users with sweaty hands.
Printing Methods
ABS and PBT have different levels of resistance to heat and chemicals. This results in different printing methods being taken. There are two common methods: Double-shot and Dye-sublimation. What’s the difference? Let’s dive in.
Double-shot
Double-shot involves two separate pieces of plastic that are intricately molded together.
This process works for both ABS and PBT materials and results in extremely durable keycaps whose legends don’t fade or wear off easily.
Womier Jello Double-shot ABS Keycap Set
Dye-sublimation
Dye-sublimation uses heat to infuse a special dye into the plastic of a keycap, creating long-lasting and detailed legends.
This process is mainly used for PBT keycaps because PBT is resistant to high temperatures, allowing the dye to penetrate deep into the material instead of just staying on the surface.
Womier Siamese Cat Dye-sublimation PBT Keycap Set
Conclusion
Both ABS and PBT keycaps have their strengths. ABS keycaps are smooth, colorful, and affordable, perfect for those who like frequent design changes or vibrant setups.
PBT keycaps are generally more expensive than ABS keycaps, but they are more durable, textured. An ideal choice for users who prioritize feel, performance, and longevity.
Know your preferences, pick your style, and enjoy every keystroke!!!
