Choose keycaps based on profile (OEM, Cherry, SA), material (PBT or ABS), and keyboard compatibility. This guide explains every keycap specification and how they affect typing feel and durability.
Profile describes the shape and height of the keycap.
Different rows have different heights that create the typing angle when combined.
OEM profile: the standard on most shipping keyboards.
Taller than Cherry, with a slight forward tilt on each row.
Cherry profile: the most popular replacement option.
ABS: most stock keyboards ship with ABS.
Develops a shiny gloss on heavy-use keys with in months.
Legends can fade with laser-etching (not dye-sublimation or double-shot).
PBT: harder, more resistant to shine.
Legends printed by dye-sublimation are permanent, the dye is in the material, not on the surface.
Laser-etched: lowest cost, least durable, legends fade with extended use.
Pad printed: ink on the surface, better than laser but still wears over time.
Dye-sublimated: dye infused into the material, permanent, cannot fade.
Double-shot: two-color molding, the legend is a physical part of the keycap, not an ink layer.
Can be done in ABS or PBT.
Our picks
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Picks are based on manufacturer specs, independent reviews and owner reports.
Razer
120 doubleshot PBT keycaps with stabilizers, made to fit Razer and standard US/UK layouts.
SteelSeries
Doubleshot PBT pudding-style keycaps that let RGB glow through the sides.
YMDK
A budget full set of doubleshot pudding keycaps for ANSI and ISO MX-style keyboards.
FAQ
Compatibility depends on stem type (Cherry MX is the most common and broadly compatible), keyboard layout (standard vs non-standard), and profile height. Most aftermarket keycap sets support standard layouts. Non-standard keyboards (60%, 65%, some gaming keyboards with non-standard right-shift or bottom row) may require sets that include non-standard keys.
Standard layouts have a 2.25u left shift, 2.75u right shift, and 6.25u spacebar. Non-standard bottom rows are common on gaming keyboards, the spacebar may be 6u instead of 6.25u, and t here may be extra keys between the spacebar and modifier keys. Check your keyboard's spec sheet or search the model name for layout specifics.
Cherry profile and OEM profile are the two most common, with Cherry being the modern preference for ergonomics. SA profile has a strong typing feel preference from some typists. MT3 (by Matt3o) is a newer option with a more aggressive spherical top that some typists prefer for its finger-centering feel. For a first keycap replacement: OEM or Cherry is safe.
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