References and Acknowledgements
Parts of this article are adapted and translated from Kira’s article titled “What Types of Keycaps Are There for Mechanical Keyboards, and What Are Their Differences?”, published on https://www.zhihu.com/
Original article link:https://zhuanlan.zhihu.com/p/354899683
Common Mechanical Keyboard Keycap Materials
Mechanical keyboard keycaps come in three main materials: ABS, PBT, and POM. Each has unique properties that affect feel, durability, and appearance. Knowing the differences helps you pick the right one for your typing style.
What Is ABS?
ABS is a plastic made from acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene. These components give it strength, flexibility, and ease of manufacturing. Because it’s cheap to produce, many budget keyboards use ABS keycaps.
They feel smooth and look clean at first. However, they wear fast under regular use. The surface becomes shiny and oily over time. This is called “greasing” or “oiliness.” It happens because ABS softens when touched repeatedly.
Why Choose PBT?
PBT stands for polybutylene terephthalate. It is stronger and more heat-resistant than ABS. That’s why it lasts longer and resists wear better.
Manufacturers find it harder to process. So it costs more than ABS. But the result is worth it — PBT keycaps stay sharp and durable for years.
TUTKEY uses high-quality PBT material for its keycaps. Their designs feature vibrant colors and clear legends. Because the ink goes deep into the plastic, the color stays bright even after heavy use.
How Does PBT Compare to ABS?
In contrast to ABS, PBT doesn’t become oily as quickly. It takes much longer to show shine. That’s why many users prefer PBT for long-term use.
Double-shot molding also works well with PBT. This means the legend is part of the keycap itself. So it never fades or wears off.
The Unique Properties of POM
POM, or polyoxymethylene, is a synthetic resin. It has high hardness and excellent wear resistance. It also lubricates itself naturally. That’s why it’s used in small mechanical parts.
POM keycaps feel cool to the touch. Their surface is extremely smooth — even smoother than worn ABS. But this smoothness is different from oiliness. It feels clean and slick, not sticky.
Because of its durability and texture, POM is popular among enthusiasts who want precision and control.
Choosing the Right Material
If you want low cost and decent feel, go with ABS. But expect oiliness after months of use.
For long-lasting performance and clear legends, choose PBT. It handles daily use better and stays looking fresh.
If you like a cool, slippery feel and high precision, consider POM. It offers a unique typing sensation that stands out.
Each material suits different preferences. Pick based on how you type and what you value most.
