When it comes to personalizing your mechanical keyboard, custom keycaps are one of the most effective and fun ways to do so custom keycaps. Whether you’re a passionate gamer, a writer, or just someone who loves customizing your tech, keycaps can drastically change the look and feel of your setup. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Fear not! This guide will cover everything you need to know about custom keycaps, from materials and profiles to where to buy and how to maintain them.
What Are Custom Keycaps?
Custom keycaps are essentially the top part of the mechanical keyboard switches that you press. These can be made from various materials and come in a variety of shapes, colors, and designs, allowing you to create a keyboard that is uniquely yours. Unlike stock keycaps that come with your keyboard, custom keycaps can be swapped out to achieve a completely different aesthetic, feel, or even typing experience.
Materials Used in Custom Keycaps
The material of your keycaps plays a significant role in their durability, feel, and sound. Here are some common materials used for custom keycaps:
1. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
ABS keycaps are the most common material found in stock keycaps, and they’re generally cheaper. However, they can wear down over time, becoming shiny and losing their textured finish. Despite this, ABS keycaps are still popular due to their affordability and wide availability in custom sets.
2. PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate)
PBT is a more durable material than ABS, known for its resistance to wear and shine. It provides a more premium feel and produces a deeper, quieter sound when pressed. PBT keycaps are typically favored by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts because they maintain their appearance and feel for much longer.
3. POM (Polyoxymethylene)
POM is another durable material used in high-end keycaps. It’s known for being extremely resistant to abrasion and is smooth to the touch, which gives it a distinctive feel. Keycaps made from POM are less common but are gaining popularity due to their quality and unique tactile experience.
4. Aluminum
While less common for full keycap sets, aluminum keycaps are a premium choice for those looking for a sleek, metallic aesthetic. They are heavier than plastic keycaps, providing a different tactile feedback and are known for their durability.
5. Resin and Artisan Keycaps
For those looking to go above and beyond in terms of customization, resin keycaps, often handmade by artisans, can feature intricate designs, colors, and even embedded objects. These are typically used for single keys and can be incredibly unique.
Keycap Profiles: What You Need to Know
Keycap profiles refer to the shape and height of the keycaps. The profile affects the ergonomics, aesthetics, and typing experience. Here are some popular profiles:
1. SA (Spherical All) Profile
The SA profile is known for its tall, spherical design. It’s retro and distinctive, providing a unique typing experience. The spherical surface of the keycap is designed to fit the curve of your finger. However, it can be somewhat steep for some users.
2. Cherry Profile
The Cherry profile is one of the most popular and widely used keycap profiles. It’s shorter than the SA profile, with a gentle slope from row to row, and offers a comfortable typing experience. Cherry keycaps are typically sculpted, meaning each row of keys has a slightly different height for optimal ergonomics.
3. DSA Profile
DSA keycaps are uniform in height and have a flat, cylindrical design. This profile is highly customizable and allows for more versatility with different layouts. DSA keycaps are great for those who like a consistent feel across all rows.
4. OEM Profile
OEM is the default profile found on many stock keyboards. These keycaps are moderately high and sculpted with a slight curve, similar to the Cherry profile, but often with a bit more height. They offer a balanced typing experience and are great for those who want something that’s comfortable but not too extreme.
5. Kailh Profile
Kailh profile keycaps are typically used in keyboards with Kailh switches. They are similar to the Cherry profile but with a slightly different shape. This profile is perfect for those who prefer a slightly more customized feel.
How to Choose the Right Keycap Set for You
With so many materials and profiles to choose from, picking the right keycap set can be challenging. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making your choice:
- Typing Experience: If you type a lot, consider keycaps made from PBT or POM for durability and comfort. The profile you choose will also affect how your fingers rest on the keys.
- Sound: PBT keycaps tend to produce a quieter, more muted sound, while ABS keycaps tend to sound more high-pitched and plastic-like. For a quieter typing experience, PBT is often preferred.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Custom keycaps come in countless colors and themes, so choose a design that fits your style. From minimalistic to retro to artistic, the options are endless.
- Budget: Higher-end materials like PBT and POM will typically cost more than ABS or OEM keycaps. Resin and artisan keycaps are often the most expensive.
Where to Buy Custom Keycaps
There are plenty of places to shop for custom keycaps. Some of the best-known platforms and retailers include:
- KBDfans: A popular online store for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, offering a wide range of custom keycap sets in various materials and profiles.
- MechanicalKeyboards.com: A well-known website dedicated to mechanical keyboard products, including a vast selection of custom keycaps.
- Etsy: For unique and artisan keycaps, Etsy is the go-to marketplace for handmade and one-of-a-kind keycap designs.
- Drop: Formerly known as Massdrop, Drop offers group buys and a wide selection of keycap sets, often collaborating with designers and creators for exclusive sets.
- Aliexpress: A marketplace where you can find custom keycaps at a variety of price points, although quality can vary, so be sure to read reviews.
How to Maintain and Clean Your Custom Keycaps
Taking care of your custom keycaps is crucial to ensure they last long and maintain their appearance. Here are some cleaning and maintenance tips:
- Regular Dusting: Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth to regularly remove dust and debris from your keycaps. This will prevent dirt buildup and keep your keyboard looking fresh.
- Deep Cleaning: If your keycaps are particularly dirty, remove them with a keycap puller and clean them using warm soapy water. Be sure to let them dry thoroughly before putting them back on.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: To prevent fading, store your keycaps away from direct sunlight when not in use.
- Consider Keycap Coating: Some keycaps come with coatings that protect against oils and dirt. If your set doesn’t have this, consider buying a keycap coating or spray that can help protect the finish.
Final Thoughts
Custom keycaps are one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to personalize your keyboard. Whether you’re looking for enhanced aesthetics, better durability, or a more comfortable typing experience, the right keycap set can make a significant difference. By understanding the materials, profiles, and designs available, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect keycap set for your needs. Don’t forget to maintain them to keep your keyboard in top shape for years to come!