Keycaps

Intro

Keycaps are an essential part of a keyboard and play a significant role in the typing experience. They come in a variety of materials, shapes, and profiles, each offering its own unique benefits and drawbacks. Understanding these nuances can help you make an informed decision when choosing keycaps for your keyboard.

  1. Keycap Material: Keycaps are typically made of either ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) plastic. ABS is cheaper and more common, but it is also more prone to shine and wear over time. PBT is more durable and has a matte texture that feels better to the touch.

  2. Keycap Profile: Keycap profiles refer to the shape and height of individual keycaps on a keyboard. Some of the most common profiles include OEM, Cherry, SA, DSA, XDA, MT3/GMK, and others. The profile you choose will impact the feel and ergonomics of typing. For example, the Cherry profile has cylindrical tops and slightly angled sides, while the SA profile has spherical tops and steeply angled sides for a more ergonomic typing experience.

  3. Keycap Height: The height of the keycaps also plays a role in the typing experience. Keycaps can range from low-profile, to mid-height, to tall. Low-profile keycaps are great for compact keyboards, but they can be more difficult to type on. 

  4. Keycap Legends: The legends, or the markings on the keycaps, can also impact the typing experience. Some keycaps have blank legends, while others have printed or laser-etched legends. Printed legends can wear off over time, while laser-etched legends are more durable.

  5. Keycap Set: When choosing keycaps, it is also important to consider the keycap set you want. Keycap sets can range from a basic set of replacements for a standard keyboard, to a custom set designed for a specific keyboard or switch. Some custom sets can also include a range of additional keycaps, such as textured keycaps for the WASD keys, or different colored keycaps for the function keys.

In conclusion, the nuances of keycaps can have a significant impact on the typing experience. When choosing keycaps, it is important to consider factors such as material, profile, height, legends, and set. With the right keycaps, you can improve the ergonomics, aesthetics, and overall feel of your keyboard.

 

Common keycap profiles 

keycap profiles refer to the shape and height of individual keycaps on a keyboard. There are several popular keycap profiles, including:

  1. OEM - original equipment manufacturer, a standard profile used by most keyboard manufacturers.

  2. Cherry - a profile with cylindrical tops and slightly angled sides, used on Cherry MX switches.

  3. SA - sculpted profile with spherical tops and steeply angled sides, creating a more ergonomic and efficient typing experience.

  4. DSA - a uniform profile with a flat surface and no angle, often used for custom keysets.

  5. XDA - similar to DSA, but with a slight angle for easier typing.

  6. MT3 / GMK - profile with cylindrical tops and flat sides, used for custom mechanical keyboards.

Each profile offers a unique typing experience, and users may prefer one over another based on personal preference.

 

A good keycap profile is subjective and depends on personal preference, but some factors that contribute to a positive typing experience include:

  1. Ergonomics: A keycap profile that reduces strain on the fingers and wrist, while providing a comfortable and efficient typing experience.

  2. Aesthetics: A profile that looks visually pleasing, with a design that enhances the overall appearance of the keyboard.

  3. Durability: Keycap profiles made from durable materials, such as PBT plastic, tend to be more long-lasting and resistant to wear.

  4. Compatibility: A profile that is compatible with a wide range of switches, making it easier to find replacement keycaps if needed.

  5. Keycap Height: A profile with a keycap height that provides a satisfying typing experience, allowing for easy and comfortable press of each key.

  6. Consistency: A profile with keycaps that have a consistent shape, height, and angle, reducing typing errors and improving the overall typing experience.

Ultimately, the best keycap profile for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.