The keycaps on your mechanical keyboard might seem like a minor detail, but they are one of the most overlooked yet fundamental components affecting your typing experience, sound, and aesthetics. Among the various materials available, ABS keycaps stand out due to their affordability, variety of colors, and smooth texture. Many enthusiasts prefer ABS keycaps because they are widely produced, making them an economical and customizable choice for both casual users and hardcore keyboard modders.
Unlike PBT keycaps, which emphasize durability and resistance to shine, ABS keycaps are known for their lighter weight, smoother feel, and higher customization potential. Major manufacturers like GMK, Ducky, and Shurikey produce high-quality ABS keycap sets, making them accessible for anyone looking to customize their keyboard’s aesthetics and feel. If you are wondering whether ABS keycaps are the best choice for you, this guide will break down everything you need to know.
The Ultimate Guide to ABS Keycaps: Pros, Cons, and Best Options
What Are ABS Keycaps?
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) keycaps are made from a thermoplastic polymer, a type of plastic commonly used in keyboard manufacturing due to its cost-effectiveness and flexibility. These caps are widely used in mechanical keyboards because they allow for detailed designs, vibrant colors, and various profiles. Compared to other materials, ABS keycaps are easier to mold, making them a widely produced choice among both budget and high-end manufacturers.
The process of making ABS keycaps involves injection molding, where melted plastic is shaped into the desired keycap profile. Some higher-quality ABS keycaps, such as GMK sets, use a double-shot molding process, where two layers of plastic are fused together to create permanent legends that do not fade over years of usage. However, regular ABS keycaps tend to wear out faster, with the legends fading over time due to continuous typing and exposure to friction, moisture, and oil.
Key Features of ABS Keycaps
One of the most notable features of ABS keycaps is their smooth, softer texture, making them feel more comfortable during extended typing sessions. This smoothness, however, also leads to a shiny appearance over time, especially on high-use locations like the spacebar and modifier keys. Many users enjoy the softer grain of ABS keycaps, while others find the shine development undesirable.
In terms of customization, ABS keycaps are available in a variety of colors, legends, and designs. Whether you prefer a monochromatic look, vibrant colorway, or transparent LED backlighting, there are endless options to customize your keyboard aesthetics. The ability to produce thinner keycaps also makes them ideal for budget-friendly stock keycap sets, while premium ABS keycaps, such as GMK, offer a thicker, more durable alternative.
ABS vs. PBT Keycaps: Key Differences
When comparing ABS keycaps to PBT keycaps, the biggest differences come down to durability, texture, and sound profile. ABS keycaps are lighter, smoother, and more customizable, whereas PBT keycaps are sturdier, textured, and resist shine for longer periods.
| Feature | ABS Keycaps | PBT Keycaps |
| Texture | Smooth, softer, but prone to shine | Grainy, rough, resists shine |
| Durability | Lower, wears out faster | Higher, withstands continuous use |
| Sound Profile | Lower pitch, hollow clack | Deeper, sturdier sound |
| Price | More affordable, widely produced | More expensive |
| Customization | More colorway options | Limited color variety |
For users who prefer a softer typing feel and high customization, ABS keycaps are a good choice. However, for those who want longevity and resistance to wear, PBT keycaps remain the better option.
Pros and Cons of ABS Keycaps
✅ Pros:
- Affordable and widely produced, making them an economical choice.
- Available in numerous colors, profiles, and designs for maximum customization.
- Double-shot keycap sets have higher-quality legends that do not fade.
❌ Cons:
- Prone to shine over time due to moisture and friction.
- Thinner keycaps can feel cheap and hollow.
- Wear and tear concerns for users who type extensively.
Are ABS Keycaps Good for Gaming & Typing?
For gaming, ABS keycaps offer a light, smooth experience that allows faster keystrokes. The lower friction makes them ideal for rapid typing and switch actuation. Many gaming keyboards feature ABS keycap sets due to their transparent, LED-friendly nature.
However, for typing enthusiasts, ABS keycaps can be a subjective choice. Some users prefer the softer feel, while others dislike the shiny look that develops over years of prolonged use. Those who type extensively may notice warping in large keycaps like the spacebar, caused by cooling inconsistencies in the manufacturing process.
Best ABS Keycaps to Buy in 2025
If you’re looking for high-quality ABS keycaps, here are some good options:
- GMK Keycap Set – Premium double-shot ABS keycaps with thicker walls.
- Ducky Keycap Set – Stock replacement keycaps with a fair amount of customization.
- Shurikey Hardcap Series – Offers a stunning colorway and higher durability.
Each of these keycap sets provides different profiles, including sculpted and uniform profiles, catering to individual preferences.
How to Maintain ABS Keycaps & Prevent Shine
To extend the lifespan of your ABS keycaps, it’s essential to follow proper cleaning and maintenance techniques. Using a damp cloth instead of harsh chemicals can help preserve their texture. For those looking to eliminate shine, dye-subbed keycaps or reverse dye-sublimation techniques can help restore their original finish.
If your keycaps develop shine too fast, rotating frequently used caps with secondary keycaps can help distribute wear evenly. Additionally, using O-rings can help with sound dampening, reducing the hollow clack sound that some lower-quality ABS keycaps produce.
People Also Asked
Are ABS keycaps better than PBT keycaps?
It depends on personal preference and use case. ABS keycaps are lighter, smoother, and offer more color customization, while PBT keycaps are sturdier, more textured, and resist shine for longer. If you prefer a sleek feel and vibrant designs, ABS keycaps are a good choice. However, if you want longevity and durability, PBT keycaps are better.
Do ABS keycaps wear out quickly?
Yes, regular ABS keycaps tend to wear out faster than PBT keycaps. Over years of use, they develop shine due to moisture, oil, and friction. However, premium double-shot ABS keycaps, like those from GMK, last much longer and resist fading better than cheaper stock keycap sets.
Are ABS keycaps good for gaming?
Absolutely! ABS keycaps are lighter and smoother, making them ideal for fast keystrokes in gaming. They are also widely used in gaming keyboards because of their transparent legends, which allow for stunning LED backlighting. If you want a customizable and affordable option for gaming, ABS keycaps are a great choice.
How do I prevent ABS keycaps from becoming shiny?
To prevent shine, clean your keycaps regularly with a damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals. Rotating frequently used keycaps, like the spacebar and modifier keys, can also help distribute wear evenly. Some enthusiasts use deshining techniques, but the best solution is upgrading to double-shot ABS or PBT keycaps for higher durability.
What are the best ABS keycap brands?
Some of the best ABS keycap brands include GMK, Ducky, and Shurikey. GMK keycaps are premium double-shot ABS keycaps with thicker walls and high-quality legends that do not fade over years. Ducky offers budget-friendly keycap sets with good durability, while Shurikey Hardcap series is great for those who want unique colorways and a higher-quality finish.
Final Thoughts
When choosing ABS keycaps, it all comes down to personal preference and intended use. If you prioritize customization, affordability, and smooth texture, then ABS-keycaps are an excellent choice. They are widely available, come in a variety of colors and profiles, and work well with LED backlighting. However, if durability and resistance to shine are your main concerns, you might want to explore PBT-keycaps or other materials like POM-keycap options, which offer better wear resistance over time.
For those who appreciate unique keyboard aesthetics, artisan-keycaps made from high-quality materials can be an exciting addition to a custom setup. Additionally, investing in double-shot-keycaps ensures that your legends won’t fade, while dye-sublimated-keycaps provide a more permanent, high-contrast look. If you’re looking for vintage-inspired keycaps, CRP-keycaps are another solid choice, offering classic designs and superior durability. Regardless of your preference, selecting the right keycaps can enhance your typing experience.
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