Ever looked at a keyboard and thought, “Wow, those keys are pretty cool!”? That’s the magic of keycaps! They’re not just little plastic squares; they’re the colorful, textured faces of your keyboard. But when it comes to picking out new ones, it can feel like a giant puzzle. There are so many brands out there, each with its own style and quality.
It’s tough to know which brand will feel best under your fingers, look amazing on your desk, and last a long time. You want your keyboard to feel special, but sifting through all the choices can be confusing and even a little frustrating. You might worry about spending money on keycaps that aren’t quite right.
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll have a much clearer picture of the top keycap brands. We’ll explore what makes each one stand out, so you can choose the perfect set to make your keyboard truly yours. Get ready to level up your typing game!
Our Top 5 Keycap Brands Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Keycap Brands Detailed Reviews
1. XVX Custom Keycaps
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your mechanical keyboard with these awesome XVX Custom Keycaps. Inspired by sci-fi and the cool character Venom, these keycaps add a unique touch to your setup. They’re perfect for customizing your Esc key or arrow keys. The cool design makes you feel like you have the best keyboard around. Many keyboard fans love them!
What We Like:
- Unique Sci-Fi Design: The Venom-inspired, science fiction look gives a superior feel.
- RGB Light Show: The metal and clear layers make your keyboard’s RGB lights shine through mysteriously.
- Wide Compatibility: Works with Cherry MX, Gateron MX, Kailh MX, and other “+” shaped mechanical switches.
- Great Gift Idea: A fantastic present for gamers, designers, or anyone who loves custom keyboards.
- Premium Feel: They combine style, comfort, and good quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- Single Keycap: Remember, you only get one keycap per purchase, not a full set.
- Keyboard Not Included: The pictures show a keyboard, but it’s just for display.
These XVX keycaps are a fantastic way to personalize your keyboard and make it stand out. They are a great gift for anyone who enjoys a custom keyboard look.
2. Benemate 5-Side Dye-subbed PBT Spacebar Keycap Cherry Profile DIY Keycap 6.25U 6.25X for Gaming Mechanical Keyboard Cats’ Paws Brand
Rating: 9.4/10
Add a touch of feline fun to your mechanical keyboard with the Benemate 5-Side Dye-subbed PBT Spacebar Keycap! This special keycap features adorable cat paws and uses a cool printing method that keeps the image looking fresh. It’s made from tough PBT plastic, so it won’t get worn out, even if you game for hours. This keycap is designed to fit most popular mechanical keyboards, making it a fantastic upgrade for any gamer or keyboard enthusiast.
What We Like:
- The 5-side dye-sublimation printing makes the cat paw design super clear and long-lasting.
- It’s made of PBT material, which means it won’t wear down over time and will always look new.
- The Cherry profile gives your keyboard a comfortable and familiar feel.
- It works with many popular switches like Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh, so it’s easy to install.
- It’s a really fun and unique gift for anyone who loves gaming or customizing their keyboard.
What Could Be Improved:
- This is just a single spacebar keycap, so you’d need to buy more if you want to change other keys.
- The “Cats’ Paws Brand” is a bit of a playful name, but some users might prefer a more straightforward brand name.
This keycap is a delightful way to personalize your keyboard and show off your love for cats and gaming. Get ready to type and game with a smile!
3. Razer Phantom Keycap Upgrade Set: Unique Stealth Design – Translucent Sides – Bottom-Lasered Legends – Keycap Removal Tools & Stablizers – Universal Compatiability – Black
Rating: 9.0/10
Ready to give your Razer keyboard a serious glow-up? The Razer Phantom Keycap Upgrade Set brings a unique stealthy look and dazzling RGB effects. These keycaps are designed to make your keyboard stand out, even when the lights are off!
What We Like:
- Unique Stealth Design: The tops of these keycaps are completely black when the RGB is off, giving your keyboard a super clean and minimalist look. It’s perfect for a sleek setup.
- Translucent Sides: The sides are frosted to let Razer Chroma RGB light shine through in all directions. This makes your RGB effects look even more amazing.
- Bottom-Lasered Legends: The letters are lasered from the bottom. This means they won’t wear off easily and shine brighter because there’s less material between the light and the legend.
- Keycap Removal Tool & Stabilizers Included: You get everything you need to swap out your old keycaps, including special tools for Razer keyboards.
- Universal Compatibility: These keycaps fit almost all Razer Mini, Tenkeyless (TKL), and full-sized mechanical and optical keyboards. They also work with standard 104/105 key US and UK layouts.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “pudding” style, with translucent sides, might not appeal to everyone looking for a purely matte finish.
- While compatible with many Razer boards, always double-check your specific model for the best fit.
The Razer Phantom Keycap Upgrade Set is a fantastic way to personalize your gaming setup and enhance your RGB lighting. It offers a stylish upgrade with lasting durability.
4. Pusakoa Tiramisu Theme Dye Sub PBT Keycaps
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to sweeten up your typing experience with the Pusakoa Tiramisu Theme Dye Sub PBT Keycaps! These adorable keycaps bring a touch of dessert-inspired charm to your mechanical keyboard, making every keystroke a delightful treat. They’re designed to be both stylish and super durable, so your keyboard will look good and feel great for a long time.
What We Like:
- Super cute Tiramisu theme that adds personality to your keyboard.
- Made from high-quality PBT material, so the legends won’t fade away.
- PBT feels better and doesn’t get as oily as other plastics.
- Unique rounded MA profile gives a cool and comfortable typing feel.
- Large, round characters are easy to read and have a relaxed vibe.
- Includes 129 keys, so it fits almost any 60% to 100% keyboard layout.
- Works with most Cherry MX and Gateron MX style switches.
What Could Be Improved:
- The keyboard itself is not included, only the keycaps.
- Availability might be limited, so grab them while you can!
If you’re looking to add some fun and flair to your mechanical keyboard, these Pusakoa keycaps are a fantastic choice. They blend cute design with excellent durability for a truly enjoyable typing setup.
5. Pusakoa Green Game Themed Kashi Guwen Green Keycap Cherry Profile 127 Keys PBT PBT Dye Sub Custom Keyboard Keycaps Set for 60% 65% 75% 95% Cherry Mx Switches Mechanical Keyboard
Rating: 8.7/10
Embark on an epic adventure with the Pusakoa Green Game Themed Kashi Guwen Green Keycaps! Inspired by the beloved Zelda game, these keycaps feature Hylian ancient text, bringing a touch of Hyrule to your desk. The vibrant green and white color scheme is super eye-catching, making it the ultimate choice for fans of the game.
What We Like:
- Game-Inspired Design: The Zelda theme with Hylian ancient text is a dream come true for fans, and the green and white colors pop!
- Comfortable Cherry Profile: Designed for comfort, the Cherry profile makes typing feel natural and reduces finger strain.
- Durable PBT Material: Made from tough PBT plastic with a matte finish, these keycaps resist wear and feel great to the touch.
- Long-Lasting Dye Sublimation: The cool patterns are printed with dye sublimation, so they’ll never fade away.
- Wide Keyboard Compatibility: These keycaps fit most ANSI layout mechanical keyboards, including 60%, 65%, 75%, 80%, and 100% sizes, and work with most cross-shaped switches.
- DIY Friendly: It’s a fantastic way to personalize your mechanical keyboard and make it uniquely yours.
What Could Be Improved:
- Keycaps Only: Remember, this set only includes the keycaps; you’ll need your own keyboard.
- Customer Support Mention: While they promise help if you have issues, it’s good to know they’re there for you.
If you’re looking to add some serious gaming flair and comfort to your mechanical keyboard, this Pusakoa keycap set is a fantastic option.
Your Guide to Awesome Keycap Brands
Picking the right keycaps makes your keyboard feel and look amazing. It’s like choosing the perfect shoes for your outfit! This guide helps you find the best keycap brands for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for keycaps, check these important things:
1. Profile
Keycaps have different shapes and heights. This is called the profile. Some popular profiles are:
- Cherry Profile: This is a common and comfy profile. It’s not too tall and has a nice curve.
- OEM Profile: This is a bit taller than Cherry. Many keyboards come with this.
- SA Profile: These are tall and rounded. They give a retro look and feel.
- XDA Profile: These are flat and uniform. They offer a clean, modern look.
The profile changes how your fingers move and how the keyboard sounds.
2. Legends (Letters and Symbols)
Legends are the letters and symbols on your keycaps. How they are put on matters:
- Doubleshot: Two different plastics are molded together. The legends will never fade. This is a top-quality method.
- Dye-Sublimation: Ink is heated and pressed into the plastic. This also creates durable legends.
- Laser-Etched: A laser burns the legend into the keycap. These can wear off over time.
- Pad-Printed: Ink is printed onto the surface. This is the least durable method.
3. Texture
The surface of the keycaps has a feel. Some are smooth, others have a bit of grip. This affects how your fingers feel on the keys.
Important Materials
Keycaps are usually made from plastic. The type of plastic makes a big difference:
1. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
ABS is a common plastic. It feels smooth. Over time, smooth ABS can get shiny. This is called “shininess.” ABS keycaps can also yellow with age if exposed to sunlight.
2. PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate)
PBT is a tougher plastic. It feels more textured and is less likely to get shiny. PBT keycaps resist wear and tear better than ABS. They also don’t yellow easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good keycaps last longer and feel better.
What Makes Keycaps Great:
- Thick Walls: Thicker keycaps sound deeper and feel more solid.
- Consistent Legends: Clear, sharp, and durable legends are a sign of good quality.
- Good Fit: Keycaps should fit snugly onto your keyboard switches without wobbling.
- Smooth Edges: No rough or sharp edges make typing more comfortable.
What Makes Keycaps Less Great:
- Thin Walls: Thin keycaps can sound hollow and feel flimsy.
- Fading Legends: Legends that wear off quickly are frustrating.
- Loose Fit: Keycaps that wiggle can feel cheap.
- Rough or Sharp Edges: These can be uncomfortable to type on.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who are keycaps for? Everyone who uses a keyboard!
For Gamers:
Gamers often want keycaps that offer good grip. Some choose bright colors or special designs. Durable keycaps are a must because they get a lot of use.
For Typists and Programmers:
People who type a lot enjoy comfortable profiles. They might prefer keycaps that reduce finger fatigue. Clear legends are important for accuracy.
For Aesthetic Enthusiasts:
Many people choose keycaps just for how they look. Unique colors, patterns, and artisan keycaps can make a keyboard a work of art.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best material for keycaps?
A: PBT is generally considered better than ABS because it’s more durable and less likely to become shiny.
Q: How do I know if keycaps will fit my keyboard?
A: Most keycaps use a standard stem that fits most mechanical keyboard switches. Check the product description to be sure.
Q: Will my keycaps wear out quickly?
A: Keycaps with doubleshot or dye-sublimated legends are very durable and won’t wear out quickly.
Q: What is an artisan keycap?
A: Artisan keycaps are unique, often handmade keycaps that are more about art and design than function.
Q: Are expensive keycaps worth it?
A: It depends on your budget and what you value. High-end keycaps offer better materials, durability, and unique designs.
Q: Can I mix and match keycaps from different brands?
A: Yes, as long as they have the same stem type and profile, you can mix and match.
Q: What is the difference between a low-profile and a high-profile keycap?
A: Low-profile keycaps are shorter, while high-profile keycaps are taller. This affects typing feel and sound.
Q: Do keycaps affect keyboard sound?
A: Yes, the material, thickness, and profile of keycaps can change how your keyboard sounds.
Q: How do I clean my keycaps?
A: You can usually wash them with mild soap and water. Make sure they are completely dry before putting them back on.
Q: Where can I buy good keycap brands?
A: You can find them on online marketplaces, specialty keyboard stores, and directly from brand websites.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.