As the direct operating components of a keyboard, the choice of keycap material has a crucial impact on the overall performance, user experience, and durability of the keyboard.
Currently, keyboard keycaps on the market are made of various materials, mainly including ABS, PBT, POM, metal, and silicone.
ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer) keycaps are the most common type on the market. They are popular due to their good processing performance, low cost, and wide range of colors. ABS keycaps have a smooth surface and a comfortable feel, but they tend to become oily after prolonged use, affecting their appearance and tactile feel. In terms of price, ABS keycap keyboards are generally more affordable, with entry-level products ranging from tens to hundreds of yuan, while mid-to-high-end products can reach several hundred yuan.
PBT keycaps are highly regarded for their wear resistance, oil resistance, and dry feel. PBT keycaps have high hardness, are not easily deformed, and their colors are long-lasting and do not easily fade. Therefore, PBT keycap keyboards are generally slightly more expensive than ABS keycap keyboards, with entry-level products likely costing over 100 yuan and high-quality products exceeding 1000 yuan.
POM keycaps are relatively rare in the market, but they are renowned for their extremely high hardness and wear resistance. POM keycaps have a unique, slightly "slippery" feel, but they are also prone to developing an oily sheen. Due to the high cost and processing difficulty of POM material, POM keycap keyboards are typically expensive and are often found in high-end custom keyboards.
Metal keycaps, such as stainless steel and aluminum alloy, are favored by some users for their unique texture and durability. Metal keycap keyboards usually have a high aesthetic appeal and a good tactile feel, but they are also relatively expensive. Keycaps made of high-end metals such as stainless steel can cost several thousand yuan or even more. These keyboards are often used in special applications such as industrial, medical, and self-service equipment, where extremely high durability and stability are required.
Silicone keycaps are often found in specially designed keyboards, such as waterproof keyboards and children's keyboards. Silicone keycaps are soft, waterproof, and easy to clean, but their feel is relatively poor, and they easily attract dust and stains. In terms of price, keyboards with silicone keycaps are generally cheaper, making them suitable for price-sensitive users who don't require high-performance keyboards.
When choosing a keyboard keycap material, users need to consider their usage needs, budget, and personal preferences. For everyday office work and gaming, ABS or PBT keycap keyboards may be a good choice; while for special applications requiring extremely high durability and stability, metal keycap keyboards may be more suitable.