Upgrading your keycaps is one of the most satisfying ways to personalize your mechanical keyboard. But with so many options out there, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned enthusiast, here are 10 essential things to know before you buy.
1. Know Your Switch Layout
Before anything else, identify your keyboard's layout — 60%, TKL, full-size, or something in between. Not all keycap sets include every key, so make sure the set you choose covers your layout completely.
2. Understand Keycap Profiles
Keycap profile refers to the shape and height of the keys. Popular profiles include Cherry, OEM, SA, DSA, and XDA. Each offers a different typing feel and aesthetic. Cherry and OEM are great for beginners; SA and sculpted profiles appeal to enthusiasts who love a retro look.
3. Material Matters — PBT vs. ABS
PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) keycaps are thicker, more durable, and resistant to shine over time. ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) keycaps are smoother and often used in double-shot legends, but can develop a greasy shine with heavy use. For longevity, PBT is usually the better choice.
4. Check the Legend Printing Method
How legends (the characters on keys) are applied affects durability. Double-shot molding is the gold standard — legends never fade. Dye-sublimation is also excellent for PBT. Pad printing is the least durable and should be avoided for daily drivers.
5. Verify Stem Compatibility
Most keycaps use a standard MX-style cross stem, compatible with Cherry MX and most clone switches. If you're using Alps, Topre, or other non-standard switches, you'll need keycaps specifically designed for them.
6. Don't Overlook Stabilizer Compatibility
Larger keys like the spacebar, shift, and enter require stabilizers. Make sure your keycap set's spacebar and modifier sizes match your keyboard's stabilizer spacing — this is especially important for non-standard layouts.
7. Consider the Colorway and Aesthetics
Keycaps are a form of self-expression. Think about your desk setup, lighting, and personal style. Minimalist monochrome sets, vibrant novelty designs, and everything in between are available. At Taptempo, we offer curated colorways that look stunning under both natural light and RGB.
8. Factor in Thickness
Thicker keycaps (1.5mm+) generally produce a deeper, more satisfying sound profile. Thin keycaps can sound hollow or clacky in an unpleasant way. If sound matters to you, prioritize thickness alongside material.
9. Watch Out for Novelty Keys and Extras
Many premium keycap sets include novelty keys — decorative keys with unique artwork. These are a fun way to add personality to your board. Check if the set includes extras like additional spacebars, accent keys, or international kits if you need them.
10. Set a Budget — But Invest Wisely
Keycaps range from $20 budget sets to $200+ group buy exclusives. You don't need to spend a fortune to get quality, but extremely cheap sets often cut corners on material and printing. A mid-range PBT double-shot set is usually the sweet spot for most users.
Ready to Upgrade?
Now that you know what to look for, browse our collection at Taptempo Keyboard. Every set we carry is hand-picked for quality, compatibility, and style — so you can type in confidence.