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Are Thick Keycaps Better Than Thin Ones? – Typing & Sound Compared
When shopping for mechanical keyboard keycaps, you’ll often see people talking about keycap thickness. But does thickness really matter, and are thick keycaps always better than thin ones? Let’s explore how keycap thickness affects sound, durability, and typing feel.
What is keycap thickness?
Keycap thickness refers to the thickness of the plastic walls that make up each cap. Standard keycaps usually range from 0.8 mm (thin) to 1.5 mm or more (thick). Both thin and thick caps can be made from ABS, PBT, or POM, but their feel and sound are noticeably different.
Advantages of thick keycaps
- Deeper sound – thick keycaps produce a more muted, “thocky” sound
- Sturdier feel – they feel more solid and premium when typing
- Durability – thicker walls resist cracking and warping
- Better for enthusiasts – often paired with high-end custom builds
Advantages of thin keycaps
- Lighter sound – thin keycaps sound sharper and “clackier”
- Lower cost – easier to manufacture, often included with stock boards
- Faster feel – some gamers prefer the lighter response
- More common – most pre-built keyboards come with thin ABS caps
Community insights
On Reddit and Geekhack, thick PBT sets are often praised for giving a rich, satisfying typing sound. Many enthusiasts recommend 1.5 mm+ PBT for the best feel. However, some gamers prefer thinner ABS caps because they feel “snappier” and make rapid key presses easier. The choice often comes down to personal preference.
Comparison: Thick vs Thin Keycaps
| Feature | Thick Keycaps | Thin Keycaps |
|---|---|---|
| Sound | Deep, muted, “thocky” | Sharp, higher-pitched, “clacky” |
| Typing feel | Solid, premium, stable | Lighter, faster, snappier |
| Durability | High – thicker walls resist damage | Lower – more prone to wear |
| Cost | More expensive | Cheaper, included with stock boards |
| Best for | Custom builds, enthusiasts | Casual users, fast gaming |
So, are thick keycaps better?
Not always – it depends on your priorities. Thick keycaps are more durable, feel premium, and produce a deeper sound, making them popular among enthusiasts. Thin keycaps are cheaper, lighter, and can feel snappier for gaming. The “better” choice is ultimately personal preference.
Explore keycaps at RGBKeys
At RGBKeys, we stock both thick PBT sets and thin ABS options.
