One of the most common questions beginners ask is: will these keycaps fit my keyboard? While many sets are designed to be universal, not all keycaps are compatible with every keyboard. Let’s break down the main factors you need to check before buying.

1. Switch stem type

Most modern mechanical keyboards use the MX-style cross stem (Cherry MX and clones like Gateron, Kailh, etc.). Almost all aftermarket keycap sets are designed for this stem type. However, some switches (like Alps or Topre) require specialized keycaps that are not cross-compatible.

2. Keyboard layout

Layouts can vary a lot, and this affects keycap fit:

  • ANSI (US) – the most common, with a rectangular Enter key
  • ISO (EU) – has a larger L-shaped Enter and a shorter left Shift
  • JIS (Japan) – includes extra keys, less common

Make sure the set you buy includes the right keys for your layout.

3. Keyboard size

Full-size (100%), TKL (80%), 75%, 65%, and 60% keyboards all require different key distributions. Some cheap sets may not include extra keys for smaller or compact layouts. Premium sets often come with “compatibility kits” to cover more layouts.

4. Key sizes and bottom row

The bottom row can differ depending on the brand:

  • Standard bottom row – used by most custom keyboards
  • Non-standard bottom row – common on Corsair, Razer, Logitech gaming boards (spacebar and modifier keys are different sizes)

If you use a gaming keyboard from a big brand, check carefully if the set supports it.

Community insights

On Reddit (r/MechanicalKeyboards), many beginners discover too late that their Corsair or Razer keyboard has a non-standard bottom row, making aftermarket keycaps harder to fit. Enthusiasts recommend checking compatibility lists before buying. Geekhack users often suggest sticking to MX-compatible boards if you want full freedom in customizing.

Keycap compatibility overview

Factor Compatible Not Compatible
Switch stem Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, most MX clones Alps, Topre (need special caps)
Layout ANSI, ISO (if included in set) Rare layouts without support kits
Keyboard size 100%, TKL, 75%, 65%, 60% (if supported) Very uncommon sizes without extra kits
Bottom row Standard (custom boards, most brands) Corsair, Razer, Logitech non-standard

So, how do I know if keycaps fit my keyboard?

Check these four things: stem type, layout, size, and bottom row. If your board uses standard MX switches with a standard layout, most keycap sets will fit. If you own a prebuilt gaming keyboard, double-check compatibility before buying.

Find compatible keycaps at RGBKeys

At RGBKeys, we stock a wide range of keycaps designed to fit most mechanical keyboards.

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