If you’re diving into the world of mechanical keyboards, you’ll quickly come across discussions about keycap materials. The two most common are ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate). But what are the differences, how do they affect your typing experience, and which keycaps should you choose? In this guide, we’ll compare ABS vs PBT, with insights from the keyboard community.

ABS Keycaps – smooth and affordable

ABS is the most common keycap material. It’s lightweight, easy to manufacture, and often used in mass-produced keyboards. ABS keycaps typically feel smooth, but over time they can develop a shiny or greasy surface from wear.

Key features:

  • Lightweight and smooth texture
  • Shines over time with heavy use
  • Often used in gaming keyboards and budget sets

Community insights:
On Reddit, ABS keycaps often get mixed reviews. Many gamers like their light feel and affordable price. However, enthusiasts point out that ABS caps can wear down quickly, making them less durable. Double-shot ABS legends, like those on premium sets, are praised for lasting much longer.

Explore all keycap sets at RGBKeys.

PBT Keycaps – durable and textured

PBT is a higher-quality plastic known for its durability and resistance to shine. PBT keycaps usually have a matte, slightly textured feel, and keep their look even after years of use. They are a favorite among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Key features:

  • Highly durable, resistant to shine
  • Matte, grippy surface with texture
  • Often thicker, resulting in deeper sound profile

Community insights:
On Reddit and Deskthority, PBT keycaps are almost always considered the “endgame material.” Users love the textured feel and the way they resist shine. Some note that cheaper PBT sets can have warping or inconsistent legends, but high-quality dye-sub or double-shot PBT is considered premium.

Check out our PBT keycaps collection.

Other Materials – uncommon but unique

  • POM (Polyoxymethylene) – smooth feel, durable, less common but popular in custom sets.
  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – cheap and rarely used in high-end keyboards.
  • Resin/Artisan keycaps – handmade, decorative, and highly collectible.

Community insights:
POM is often described as “silky smooth” on Reddit, with some users preferring it even over PBT for typing. Artisan resin caps are seen as a way to personalize a keyboard, though they’re less practical for daily use.

ABS vs PBT – which should you choose?

Material Pros Cons
ABS Lightweight, affordable, smooth feel Wears quickly, shines over time
PBT Durable, textured, resists shine More expensive, can warp if poorly made
POM Silky smooth, durable Rare and often pricey
Artisan/Resin Unique, highly customizable Not ideal for full sets, mostly decorative

Find the right keycap set at RGBKeys

Whether you prefer the affordability of ABS, the durability of PBT, or the uniqueness of artisan caps, RGBKeys has a wide selection. Browse our full keycap collection and find the perfect upgrade for your keyboard.