Introduction to ABS and PBT Keycaps
Keycaps not only define the aesthetics of your keyboard but also play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience.
The two most common types of keycaps available in the market are ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PBT (in depth guide Polybutylene Terephthalate). Both materials have their own unique characteristics and offer distinct advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the differences between ABS and PBT keycaps can help you make an informed decision while choosing the right keycaps for your keyboard.
ABS Keycaps: The Traditionally Popular Choice
ABS keycaps have been the go-to choice for many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts for years. This type of keycap is made from a thermoplastic polymer that offers several desirable characteristics.
ABS keycaps are known for their smooth surface and high gloss finish. This gives them a visually appealing look, especially in vibrant colors. Moreover, ABS keycaps are relatively cheaper to manufacture, making them a cost-effective option for both manufacturers and consumers.
One of the key advantages of ABS keycaps is their ability to accentuate the backlight effects of RGB lighting, as the smooth surface allows light to pass through more easily. This means that when you turn on the RGB backlighting on your keyboard, the light will shine through the ABS keycaps in a vibrant and eye-catching manner.
However, ABS keycaps also come with their fair share of drawbacks. One significant disadvantage is their susceptibility to wear and shine over time. With extended use, the constant friction from fingers pressing down on the keycaps can cause the surface to become shiny and develop a worn-out look. This shine can make the legends on the keycaps less readable and may give the keyboard a less polished appearance.
Another issue with ABS keycaps is their tendency to develop “shiny spots” or “grease shine” over specific areas that receive more frequent use. These shiny spots occur due to the oils and sweat from our fingers accumulating on the keycaps, causing them to become glossy and reflective.
To combat these issues, some manufacturers apply a thin UV coating or use a double-shot molding process to increase the durability and resistance to shine. The double-shot molding technique involves creating a legends layer and a separate keycap body layer, which are then fused together during the manufacturing process. This ensures that the legends on ABS keycaps remain crisp and visible for a more extended period.
PBT Keycaps: The Durable and Long-lasting Option
PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) keycaps have gained popularity in recent years among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, mainly due to their superior durability and longevity. PBT is a more robust and denser plastic compared to ABS, making PBT keycaps resistant to wear, shine, and discoloration even after years of use.
One of the key advantages of PBT keycaps is their resistance to abrasion and fading. The keycaps retain their original texture and matte finish, even with prolonged and heavy typing sessions. The textured surface of PBT keycaps provides a pleasant tactile feel, offering better grip and preventing fingers from slipping off the keys.
PBT keycaps are highly resistant to shine and oils from our fingers. They are less prone to developing shiny spots or grease shine, resulting in a cleaner and more consistent look over time. This makes PBT keycaps an excellent choice for those who want their keyboard to maintain its original appearance for an extended period.
In addition to their durability, PBT keycaps are known for their superior sound and feel. The denser material reduces the “hollow” or “plastic” sound that is often associated with ABS keycaps, providing a more solid and satisfying typing experience. The sturdiness of PBT keycaps also leads to a more stable keypress, reducing the chance of accidental keystrokes.
Now that we’ve explored the differences between ABS and PBT keycaps, it’s essential to consider the specific factors that might influence your choice of keycaps. One crucial aspect is the keyboard layout you prefer, such as the popular 75% and 65% layouts. To learn more about these layouts, check out our article on Unveiling the World of 75% and 65% Keyboard Layouts.
Understanding the basics of mechanical switches can also help you make an informed decision. If you’re new to mechanical switches, our guide on the Basics of Mechanical Switches will provide you with valuable insights.
Both ABS and PBT keycaps can benefit from lubrication to enhance their performance. If you’re interested in lubricating your switches, check out our step-by-step guide on Lubricating Switches for Smooth Operation.
Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the world of keycaps and explore more intriguing topics, including the popular Cherry MX switches in our upcoming articles. Find out everything you need to know about Cherry MX switches in our comprehensive guide on Cherry MX Switches.
