What are PBT Keycaps?

What are PBT Keycaps?

If you're diving into the world of mechanical keyboards and wondering what sets one keycap apart from another, you’ve likely come across the term "PBT keycaps." Whether you're looking to upgrade your typing experience or personalize your custom keyboard, understanding what PBT keycaps are—and why they're so popular—is a must.

What Does “PBT” Stand For?

PBT stands for Polybutylene Terephthalate—a type of plastic that’s known for being durable, resistant to wear, and less prone to developing shine over time. Compared to other materials like ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), PBT keycaps offer superior longevity and a more premium feel.

Key Features of PBT Keycaps

• Durability: PBT plastic is highly resistant to wear, making these keycaps ideal for long-term use—even under heavy typing or gaming conditions.

• Textured Surface: Most PBT keycaps have a slightly rough, matte finish that feels great under your fingers and provides a better grip than glossy ABS caps.

• No Shine: Unlike ABS keycaps that tend to become shiny and greasy-looking with time, PBT keycaps maintain their original texture for years.

• Thicker Walls: Many PBT keycaps are thicker, which contributes to a deeper, more satisfying typing sound and feel.

• Better Heat Resistance: PBT doesn’t warp as easily during manufacturing, allowing for more consistent quality in custom keycaps.

PBT vs ABS: What’s the Difference?

ABS keycaps are more common in budget mechanical keyboards. They’re easier to mold and cheaper to produce, but they develop a shiny surface quickly and may feel hollow. PBT, on the other hand, offers a higher-quality experience with more resistance to fading, warping, and shine.

Quick Comparison:

• Durability: PBT is more durable than ABS

• Texture: PBT has a matte, grippy texture; ABS is smooth and glossy

• Shine Over Time: ABS becomes shiny; PBT resists shine

• Sound: PBT often has a deeper, thockier sound than ABS

• Cost: PBT keycaps are slightly more expensive, but worth it for long-term use

Are All PBT Keycaps the Same?

Not exactly. While all PBT keycaps use the same type of plastic, they come in different profiles (like OEM, Cherry, SA), printing methods (such as dye-sub or double-shot), and thickness levels. This is where custom keyboard lovers get to have fun—choosing the shape, colorway, and finish that fit their vibe.

Why Choose PBT Keycaps?

Whether you're a gamer, programmer, or just someone who enjoys a premium typing experience, PBT keycaps are a smart upgrade. They’re more durable, look better over time, and offer a satisfying feel that makes every keystroke more enjoyable.

With more custom keycaps available in PBT than ever before, it’s never been easier to make your mechanical keyboard stand out.

Final Thoughts

If you’re customizing or upgrading your mechanical keyboard, PBT keycaps are one of the best investments you can make. They combine durability, comfort, and style in a way that transforms both your typing experience and the overall aesthetic of your setup.

Looking for your next set of high-quality PBT keycaps? Check out our latest collection—designed for all layouts from 60% to full-size, and perfect for beginners or custom keyboard enthusiasts.