ABS vs PBT Keycaps: Which Material Is Better For You?

The Battle of Keycap Materials:abs vs pbt keycaps

The two main contenders for common mechanical keyboard keycap materials are ABS vs PBT keycaps.

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) keycaps are more affordable. They are common, come in a variety of colors and designs, and are easily customizable and affordable. However, they are more susceptible to wear and shine over time, and the legends or printed characters may fade with prolonged use.

PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) keycaps are known for their enhanced durability and better texture. They have a matte finish for better grip and a satisfying touch, and the dye-sublimation prints on them can last for years without noticeable fading. But PBT keycaps are generally more expensive than ABS keycaps.

A comparison of ABS vs PBT keycaps shows the difference in surface treatment.

ABS vs PBT keycaps: pbt

ABS vs PBT keycaps: abs

Printing Processes for ABS vs PBT Keycaps

For ABS keycaps, laser etching and pad printing are common techniques. Laser etching can leave a permanent mark but has limited color options, while pad printing can achieve more detailed and colorful designs, but the printing ink may wear off over time.
PBT keycaps are usually made using a dye sublimation process, which involves heating special dyes to a gaseous state, which then penetrates the surface of the PBT keycap and solidifies, resulting in a bright and long-lasting printing effect.
For the method of engraving letters on keycaps, you can read this article.

PBT keycaps printed using dye sub technology

Durability and Longevity

For ABS keycaps, laser etching and pad printing are common techniques. Laser etching can leave a permanent mark but has limited color options, while pad printing can achieve more detailed and colorful designs, but the printing ink may wear off over time.
PBT keycaps are usually made using a dye sublimation process, which involves heating special dyes to a gaseous state, which then penetrates the surface of the PBT keycap and solidifies, resulting in a bright and long-lasting printing effect.

ABS keycaps after using for a period of time

Tactile Sensation and Typing Experience

ABS keycaps have a smooth and soft surface, which is pleasant to the touch at first, but as the keycaps become shiny and slippery, the letters may fade, making them very uncomfortable to use, and you have to wipe your fingers frequently, otherwise they will be sticky.
The matte texture of PBT keycaps can provide a more consistent and grippy touch, enhancing the overall typing pleasure, and the solid structure, excellent wear resistance and durability, can maintain appearance and function for a long time.

Matte with frosted pbt keycaps

Price Comparison

In general, ABS keycaps are cheaper than PBT keycaps. A basic set of ABS keycaps might cost anywhere from $15 to $50, while higher-end sets with custom designs could range from $50 to $150 or more. PBT keycaps usually come at a higher price, with basic sets starting around $30 to $60 and premium sets with thicker keycaps, unique designs, or special features ranging from $60 to $200 or more.

Better than ABS dye sub pbt keycaps

ABS vs PBT keycaps: Which one is better?

I believe you have the answer in your mind after reading this, but everyone has different ideas. ABS keycaps are cheaper, and PBT keycaps are of better quality. Our team unanimously agreed that although PBT keycaps are more expensive, we are willing to spend more money on durability and cost-effectiveness to choose PBT keycaps, because it allows me to use it longer and more comfortably during use.

In addition, this article also introduces keycaps of more materials, each of which has its own advantages. You can talk about your own opinions in the comment area, talk about your keycap material, and let the majority of netizens know your ideas.