PBT Keycaps

PBT keycaps: material, legends and sound

PBT is, alongside ABS, the second standard plastic for keycaps. At MonacoKeys you will find PBT sets in dye-sub and double-shot. If you are still torn between the two materials, our comparison PBT vs. ABS keycaps helps.

Surface and shine

With use, PBT usually takes longer to shine than ABS. How smooth or rough a set feels depends less on the plastic than on the injection mold: some sets are finely textured, others noticeably grippier. In return PBT is less scratch resistant, you can scratch it with a tool or a fingernail.

Sound and wall thickness

PBT keycaps usually sound a little deeper and fuller than ABS. Besides the material, wall thickness, switch, case and dampening count at least as much. Depending on the line, the wall thickness of our sets is between about 1.3 and 1.7 mm and is listed in the specifications. According to manufacturers, thicker walls give a deeper sound.

Dye-sub or double-shot?

Most PBT sets are dye-sub: the dye is driven into the material by heat, so the legends don't wear off. Because the cap starts out light, colours are usually not quite as intense as with double-shot, and a light legend on a dark cap needs reverse dye-sub. With double-shot, legend and cap are molded separately and sharply separated.

Does the set fit your keyboard?

Check the layout of your keyboard before buying; the product description lists which kits a set includes. Most sets are in Cherry profile, and Cherry, PBS and KAT sets fit MX-style switches. Our guide keycap profiles explains the shapes, and Cherry profile keycaps shows Cherry sets only.