Where to Find Keycaps For Your Keyboard
If you’re looking for a way to customize your keyboard and take your typing experience to the next level, keycaps are the way to go! Keycaps are the plastic caps that go on top of your keyboard’s keys. They come in a variety of colors and materials, and can be used to give your keyboard a unique look and feel. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of keycaps available, as well as where to find them. We’ll also cover the different ways to customize your keycaps and how to take care of them. So if you’re ready to take your keyboard game to the next level, read on!
Buying Options to Find Keycaps For Your Keyboard
When looking to buy keycaps for your keyboard, there are two main options – online vendors and local stores.
Online Vendors
Online vendors offer a wide variety of keycaps for your keyboard, and often come with the convenience of having the items shipped directly to your doorstep. Massdrop is a popular online vendor for keycaps, offering a wide range of colors and styles for enthusiasts. AliExpress is another great option for buying keycaps, as it offers a large selection of both customized and stock keycaps. Amazon also has a wide selection of keycaps, with many different colors and styles to choose from.
Local Stores
Local stores are another great option for finding keycaps for your keyboard. Specialty keyboard shops are an excellent source for a variety of keycaps, as they often have a wider selection than traditional electronics stores. Electronics stores are another great option for finding keycaps, as they often carry a variety of colors and styles to choose from.
Keycap Materials
When selecting a keycap set, it’s important to consider the materials used in the manufacturing process. The two most common materials used in keycaps are ABS plastic and PBT plastic.
ABS Plastic
ABS plastic is the most common material used in keycaps. It is lightweight and relatively inexpensive, making it a popular choice for many manufacturers. ABS keycaps also tend to be more vibrant and glossy, making them a great choice for those looking for a bright and eye-catching keyboard.
PBT Plastic
PBT plastic is a more durable and higher-quality material used in keycaps. PBT keycaps are usually textured and have a slightly rougher feel than ABS keycaps. They are also more resistant to wear and tear, making them a great choice for those who want a longer-lasting set of keycaps.
Other Materials
In addition to ABS and PBT plastic, there are other materials used in keycaps, including metal, wood, and even acrylic. These keycaps are typically more expensive than ABS and PBT keycaps, but they can also offer a unique look and feel to your keyboard.
No matter what type of keycap you are looking for, there are plenty of great options available. With a bit of research and patience, you can find the perfect set of keycaps to customize your mechanical keyboard.
Keycap Styles
OEM Profile
OEM profile keycaps are the most common type of keycaps. They are typically tall and thin, and have a curved top. They are designed to be used with Cherry MX switches and other similar switches.
Cherry Profile
Cherry profile keycaps are shorter and wider than OEM keycaps. They are designed to be used with Cherry MX switches and other similar switches.
SA Profile
SA profile keycaps are tall and wide, and have a sculpted top. They are designed to be used with Cherry MX switches and other similar switches.
Custom Keycaps
3D Printing
3D printing is a process of making three dimensional objects from a digital file. It involves melting plastic filament and layering it in a precise manner to build a 3D object. This process is often used to create custom keycaps for mechanical keyboards. 3D printed keycaps are created by designing a 3D model of the desired shape and then printing it layer by layer. This process allows for more intricate designs than traditional manufacturing techniques and allows for an almost infinite range of possibilities.
Laser Etching
Laser etching is a process of using a laser to cut or etch a design onto a material. It is commonly used to create custom keycaps for mechanical keyboards as it allows for detailed designs and a high level of precision. Laser etching is also much faster than 3D printing, making it a more cost-effective option. Laser etching is often used to create intricate designs on keycaps that cannot be achieved with 3D printing, such as text or logos.
Conclusion
The world of keycaps is a vast one, and with so many different types, styles and colors to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. From artisan keycaps to custom sets, there is something to suit everyone’s needs and style. With some research and exploration into the world of keycaps, you’ll be able to find the perfect set for your keyboard. With the right keycaps, you’ll be able to personalize your keyboard and make it your own.
Also Read: Why are Mechanical Keyboards so Expensive?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Keycaps?
Keycaps are the removable plastic covers that sit on top of the switches on a keyboard. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors and can be used to customize the look and feel of a keyboard.
Where can I buy Keycaps?
Keycaps can be purchased online from retailers such as MechanicalKeyboards.com, WASD Keyboards, and Originative.co.
Are there any special keycaps available?
Yes, there are specialty keycaps available such as backlit keycaps, artisan keycaps, and keycaps made from materials like wood, metal, and acrylic.
What is the difference between OEM and aftermarket keycaps?
OEM keycaps are the standard plastic keycaps that come pre-installed on most keyboards. Aftermarket keycaps are higher quality and have more customization options available.
How do I know what keycaps will fit my keyboard?
Most keycap sets come with a compatibility chart that will list the various keyboard models and what keycap sets will fit them. You can also look up your keyboard model online to find out what keycaps will fit it.
