If you’ve ever typed on a keyboard and thought,This feels fine,but it could be better,chances are the keycaps were the weak link.For many people, keyboards come and go without much thought but once you enter the world of custom keycaps,it’s hard to go back. Keycaps don’t just sit on your switches;they shape how every keystroke feels,sounds,and even how enjoyable long typing or gaming sessions become.
In recent years,custom keycaps have exploded in popularity. From ultra-durable double shot keycaps to handcrafted artisan keycaps, colorful anime keycaps,and RGB-friendly backlit keycaps,there’s now an option for every style and use case.What started as a niche hobby for keyboard enthusiasts has become mainstream,especially among gamers,streamers and people who type all day for work.
In this guide,we’re going to break everything down in plain English.No hype,no marketing fluff just real advice from a keyboard enthusiast’s perspective.By the end,you’ll know exactly which custom keycaps make sense for you,and which ones you can safely ignore.
What Are Custom Keycaps?
At the simplest level,keycaps are the plastic (or sometimes metal or resin) covers that sit on top of your keyboard switches.Stock keyboards usually come with generic keycaps made to be cheap,not great.Custom keycaps are aftermarket replacements designed to improve feel, durability,sound and appearance.
The difference becomes obvious the moment you use them.Stock keycaps often feel thin, slippery,and hollow.Custom keycaps especially higher quality ones feel thicker,more solid and more consistent.It’s similar to the difference between typing on a flimsy laptop keyboard versus a well built mechanical one.
Why do people upgrade?
- Comfort: Better texture and shape reduce finger fatigue.
- Durability: Legends don’t fade after months of use.
- Sound: Keycaps heavily influence how “thocky”or“clacky”a keyboard sounds.
- Personalization: Your keyboard starts to feel like yours.
For example,a programmer who types eight hours a day may switch to thicker PBT keycaps for comfort and sound control, while a gamer might prefer backlit keycaps that show RGB clearly during late-night sessions.Custom keycaps aren’t about flexing they’re about optimizing how your keyboard works for your lifestyle.
Types of Custom Keycaps Explained
Not all custom keycaps are created equal. Understanding the main types helps you avoid buying something that looks cool but feels wrong after a week.
Double Shot Keycaps
Double shot keycaps are made by molding two layers of plastic together one for the keycap body and one for the legend (the letter or symbol). Because the legend is a separate piece of plastic, it never fades.
Why people love them:
- Legends stay sharp forever
- Excellent for backlit keyboards
- Consistent quality
They’re commonly made from ABS plastic,which gets a bad reputation, but high-quality double shot ABS can feel excellent. Many premium RGB keyboards rely on double shot keycaps because light shines through the legends cleanly.
Best for:
- RGB setups
- Long-term durability
- Users who hate fading letters
Artisan Keycaps
Artisan keycaps are more art than accessory.These are usually handmade, often in small batches,using resin,metal,or mixed materials.You’ll typically use them on a single key Escape, Enter, or Spacebar.
Pros:
- Unique, collectible designs
- Personal expression
- High craftsmanship
Cons:
- Expensive
- Not ideal for daily typing keys
- Sometimes inconsistent height or feel
Think of artisan keycaps like a custom watch face.You don’t need them,but they add personality. Most enthusiasts use one or two artisans rather than replacing an entire set.
Anime Keycaps
Anime keycaps tap into gaming and pop culture.These often feature themed colorways, Japanese legends, character art, or novelty designs inspired by anime and games.
Why they’re popular:
- Strong visual identity
- Matches anime-themed setups
- Popular among streamers
However,quality varies a lot.Some anime keycaps are premium PBT sets,while others are cheaply printed. Always check material and printing method before buying.
Backlit Keycaps
Backlit keycaps are designed for RGB keyboards.They have transparent or translucent legends that allow light to pass through.
Good for:
- Gaming in low light
- RGB-focused setups
- Clean legend visibility
Trade-off:
- Often thinner than non-backlit sets
- Fewer premium material options
Comparison Table – Types of Custom Keycaps
| Keycap Type | Material | Durability | Feel & Sound | Backlit Friendly | Ideal Use Case | Price Range |
| Double Shot | ABS / PBT | Very High | Smooth, consistent, crisp | Yes | Long-term use, RGB setups | $30–$80 |
| Artisan | Resin / Metal / Wood | Medium-High | Varies, decorative feel | No (mostly) | Aesthetic flair, collectors | $15–$50+ |
| Anime | ABS / PBT | Medium | Depends on manufacturer | Sometimes | Themed setups, streaming desks | $20–$60 |
| Backlit | ABS / PBT | Medium-High | Slightly thinner, clear legends | Yes | Gaming, night typing, RGB focus | $25–$70 |
| Standard Stock | ABS | Low | Hollow, less satisfying | Limited | Budget, basic typing | $10–$20 |
Materials & Manufacturing Why Quality Varies So Much
Keycap material matters more than most beginners realize. It affects feel, sound, durability, and even cleanliness.
ABS Keycaps
- Smooth texture
- Brighter colors
- Can develop shine over time
PBT Keycaps
- Textured, grippy feel
- More resistant to wear
- Deeper, more muted sound
Manufacturing methods also matter:
- Double shot molding: Best for durability
- Dye-sublimation: Legends are infused into the plastic (common with PBT)
Thicker keycaps generally sound better and feel more solid.Thin caps tend to produce a hollow sound, while thicker ones contribute to a deeper “thock.”
Design,Aesthetics & Personal Expression
Keycaps are the visual centerpiece of your keyboard.Colorways,fonts,and profiles all change how your setup feels.
Popular profiles include:
- OEM: Safe, familiar
- Cherry: Lower, more ergonomic
- SA: Tall and retro
- DSA/XDA: Flat, uniform rows
Sound changes too. Taller profiles often sound louder and deeper, while lower profiles feel faster and more controlled. This is why two keyboards with the same switches can sound completely different.
Your keyboard is part of your workspace. Custom keycaps let you match it to your desk, your PC build, or even your personality.
Gaming vs Typing Choosing the Right Keycaps
For gaming:
- Backlit keycaps for visibility
- Lower profiles for faster movement
- Smooth textures for quick presses
For typing:
- Thicker PBT keycaps
- Sculpted profiles for comfort
- Non-shine surfaces
If you game and type a lot, Cherry profile PBT sets are a solid middle ground.They don’t scream “gamer”but they perform well in both scenarios.
Buying Guide
How to Choose the Right Custom Keycaps
Step-by-step:
- Check your keyboard layout (60%, TKL, full-size)
- Decide ABS vs PBT
- Choose a profile you’ll enjoy long-term
- Decide if RGB matters
- Set a realistic budget
Budget ranges:
- Entry: Basic PBT sets
- Mid-range: Quality dye-sub or double shot
- Premium: Designer sets + artisans
Start practical. You can always upgrade later.
Pros & Cons of Custom Keycaps
Pros:
- Better feel and sound
- Long-lasting legends
- Personal expression
- Improved typing comfort
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- Compatibility issues
- Easy to overbuy
Common Mistakes
Mistake: Buying without checking layout compatibility
Mistake: Choosing looks over comfort
Mistake: Assuming expensive = better for everyone
Conclusion
If you use your keyboard daily, upgrading to custom keycaps is one of the easiest ways to improve comfort, sound, and enjoyment. Whether you prefer durable double shot keycaps, expressive artisan keycaps, eye-catching anime keycaps, or practical backlit keycaps, there’s no single “best” choice—only what fits your needs.
Start simple. Learn what you like. And remember: custom keycaps are a journey, not a one-time purchase. The right keycaps won’t just make your keyboard look better—they’ll make every keystroke feel right.
If you’re interested in going deeper, check out our guide on mechanical keyboard switches to understand how switches and keycaps work together to shape typing feel and sound.
FAQS
Q1:What are custom keycaps and why should I upgrade?
A:Custom keycaps replace the stock keys on your keyboard to improve feel, durability, sound, and aesthetics. Upgrading can make typing more comfortable, improve gaming performance, and personalize your keyboard.
Q2: What is the difference between ABS and PBT keycaps?
A:ABS keycaps are smooth,lightweight and allow bright colors but wear down and develop shine quickly.
PBT keycaps are thicker,textured and highly durable,producing a deeper sound and lasting longer.
Q3: Are artisan keycaps functional or just decorative?
A:Mostly decorative.They are usually applied to one or two keys for visual flair.
Q4: Can I use backlit keycaps on any keyboard?
A:Not always.Backlit keycaps need transparent or translucent legends to shine through.
Q5: Do custom keycaps affect typing sound?
A:Absolutely.Thicker keycaps,PBT material, and certain profiles produce a deeper,“thocky” sound,while thin ABS or low profile keys tend to sound hollow and higher pitched.
Q6:Will all keycaps fit my keyboard?
A:No. You need to match your keyboard layout (60%, TKL, full-size) and key profile (OEM,Cherry,SA etc.) for compatibility. Some artisan or novelty sets are also limited to specific layouts.
Q7: How long do custom keycaps last?
A:High quality PBT or double shot keycaps can last several years without wear.ABS keycaps may develop shine or faded legends after months of heavy use.
