Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts are always on the hunt for the perfect keycap material that offers durability, smoothness, and a satisfying sound profile. Among the various options available, POM (Polyoxymethylene) keycaps have gained popularity for their self-lubricating texture, deep sound profile, and long-lasting wear resistance.
POM keycaps stand out because of their silky smooth surface and high durability, making them an excellent choice for gamers and typists who want a premium keystroke feel. Unlike ABS keycaps, which develop a greasy shine over time, or PBT keycaps, which have a rougher texture, POM keycaps offer a unique middle ground.
In this guide, we’ll explore the features of POM keycaps, compare them to other materials, and provide a buying guide to help you choose the best set for your needs.
The Ultimate Guide to POM Keycaps: Features, Benefits & Buying Tips
Key Features of POM Keycaps
Smooth & Unique Texture
One of the standout characteristics of POM keycaps is their ultra-smooth, self-lubricating texture. This makes key presses feel effortless, especially for fast typists and gamers.
- Why does POM feel so smooth? The material itself has low friction properties, meaning it glides easily under your fingers.
- Does this affect grip? Some users find POM slightly slippery compared to PBT keycaps, but over time, the texture settles into a comfortable feel.
Durability & Longevity
POM keycaps are highly durable, making them resistant to wear and tear.
- Better than ABS: Unlike ABS keycaps, which develop shine quickly, POM maintains its matte finish longer.
- Slightly softer than PBT: While PBT keycaps are known for their hardness, POM keycaps are slightly more flexible but still sturdy enough for long-term use.
Acoustic Properties & Typing Feel
Keycap material plays a huge role in sound and typing feel. POM keycaps produce a deep, muted “thock” sound, making them a favorite among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
- Compared to PBT keycaps, POM has a less crisp and more subdued sound.
- Compared to ABS keycaps, POM sounds deeper and less hollow.
This makes them a solid choice for those who prefer a quiet but satisfying typing experience.
POM Keycaps vs. PBT & ABS Keycaps
Material & Composition Comparison
| Feature | POM | PBT | ABS |
| Texture | Smooth/slippery | Textured/grippy | Smooth/glossy |
| Durability | High | Very high | Low |
| Sound | Thocky/deep | Crisp/higher pitch | Hollow/cheap |
| Shine Resistance | Good | Excellent | Poor |
| Availability | Limited | Widely available | Most common |
Who Should Choose POM Keycaps?
POM keycaps are not for everyone, but they do have a specific audience that will benefit from them:
✅ Gamers: Their smooth surface allows for quick key presses and fast reaction times.
✅ Typists: The deep, thocky sound profile and smooth texture provide a comfortable experience.
✅ Keyboard Enthusiasts: If you’re looking for a unique feel and sound, POM keycaps are a rare but valuable addition to your collection.
🚫 Who might not like them?
- If you prefer textured keycaps for better grip, POM might feel too slippery.
- If you love colorful keycaps, POM’s design options are more limited compared to PBT.
Choosing the Right POM Keycaps: A Buying Guide
Key Considerations
When buying POM keycaps, consider the following factors:
✔️ Keycap Profile: Different profiles like OEM, Cherry, SA, and DSA affect how the keycaps feel.
✔️ Compatibility: Ensure they work with Cherry MX-style switches (including Gateron, Kailh, and others).
✔️ Legends & Printing: Some POM keycaps are blank (no legends), while others have laser-etched or dye-sub legends for durability.
Best POM Keycap Sets & Where to Buy
Here are some popular POM keycap sets available:
GMK POM Keycaps – High-quality set with a deep sound profile.
Ducky POM Keycaps – Great for gamers and typists.
Wuque POM Keycaps – Well-loved by enthusiasts for their smooth feel.
Where to buy?
- Amazon – Wide selection of POM keycaps.
- Drop – High-end mechanical keyboard parts.
- MechanicalKeyboards.com – Specializes in keycap sets.
Maintenance & Care for POM Keycaps
To keep your POM keycaps in perfect condition, follow these maintenance tips:
Cleaning Methods
- Use warm water and mild soap to clean keycaps.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like alcohol-based cleaners, which can damage the surface.
Preventing Shine & Wear
- Wipe keycaps regularly with a microfiber cloth.
- If you type heavily, consider rotating your keycap sets to distribute wear evenly.
Long-Term Care
- Store your keyboard in a cool, dry place to prevent discoloration.
- Avoid direct sunlight exposure, as UV rays can affect the plastic.
Conclusion: Are POM Keycaps Worth It?
POM keycaps offer a unique combination of smoothness, durability, and a deep sound profile, making them a top choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Who should buy them?
✔️ If you love a smooth, self-lubricating feel
✔️ If you prefer a deep, thocky typing sound
✔️ If you want a durable keycap material that resists shine
Who should consider other options?
🚫 If you want grippy or textured keycaps
🚫 If you prefer colorful, highly customizable designs
While POM keycaps are not as widely available as PBT or ABS, their unique properties make them a premium choice for those seeking a high-end typing experience.
People Also Asked on POM Keycaps
Are POM keycaps better than PBT?
POM keycaps and PBT keycaps both have their strengths. POM keycaps offer a smoother feel and a deeper “thocky” sound, while PBT keycaps are more textured and highly durable. If you prefer a slick and self-lubricating typing experience, POM is a great choice. However, if you want a grippier texture with more color options, PBT might be better.
Do POM keycaps develop shine over time?
POM keycaps are more resistant to shine than ABS keycaps but not as shine-resistant as PBT keycaps. With regular use, they may develop a mild shine, but it happens much slower than with ABS keycaps. Cleaning them regularly can help maintain their original finish.
Are POM keycaps good for gaming?
Yes! POM keycaps are excellent for gaming because of their smooth texture and low friction, which allow for fast and effortless key presses. However, some gamers may find them a bit too slippery, especially if they prefer textured keycaps for grip.
Why are POM keycaps less common than PBT or ABS?
POM keycaps are harder to manufacture and less widely produced, which makes them rarer than PBT or ABS keycaps. Additionally, they are often sold as premium keycaps, making them less common in budget keyboard setups.
How do I clean and maintain POM keycaps?
To clean POM keycaps:
✔️ Remove the keycaps from your keyboard.
✔️ Wash them in warm water with mild soap (avoid alcohol-based cleaners).
✔️ Gently scrub with a soft brush to remove dirt and oils.
✔️ Let them dry completely before reattaching.
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