ABS vs PBT Keycaps: Which Is Better for Mechanical Keyboards?
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If you've been shopping for keycaps, you've probably seen the terms ABS and PBT thrown around a lot. Both are types of plastic used to make keycaps, and both have real trade-offs worth knowing before you buy. This guide breaks down the differences so you can make a straightforward decision for your setup.
What Are ABS Keycaps?
ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene. It's one of the most common plastics used in keycap manufacturing and has been the default material on keyboards for decades.
ABS keycaps are typically smoother to the touch and slightly thinner than PBT. They're easier to mould into complex shapes, which is why many double-shot keycap sets — where legends are formed by two layers of plastic — use ABS. The legends on double-shot ABS keycaps are durable and won't fade, since they're physically part of the keycap rather than printed on top.
The main downside of ABS is shine. Over time, the oils from your fingers cause ABS keycaps to develop a glossy sheen on the most-used keys. This doesn't affect function, but it's noticeable and bothers a lot of people.
What Are PBT Keycaps?
PBT stands for Polybutylene Terephthalate. It's a denser, harder plastic that has become the go-to material for enthusiast keycap sets.
PBT keycaps have a slightly textured, matte surface that resists shine much better than ABS. They're also more resistant to heat and chemical exposure, which means they hold up well over years of daily use. Most PBT keycap sets use dye-sublimation printing, where dye is infused directly into the plastic — making the legends essentially permanent.
ABS vs PBT: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | ABS | PBT |
|---|---|---|
| Shine resistance | Low — develops shine over time | High — stays matte longer |
| Texture | Smooth | Slightly textured, matte |
| Thickness | Usually thinner | Usually thicker |
| Sound profile | Higher-pitched, clackier | Deeper, more solid |
| Legend durability | Excellent (double-shot) | Excellent (dye-sublimation) |
| Colour range | Wide — easier to colour-match | More limited |
| Price | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Availability | Very common | Common in enthusiast market |
Which Feels Better?
This comes down to personal preference. ABS has a smoother, slightly slicker feel that some people find comfortable, especially for fast typing. PBT has a subtle texture that gives your fingers more grip on each key.
If you've ever typed on a keyboard that felt a bit slippery or noticed your fingers sliding off keys, switching to PBT often helps. That said, some typists genuinely prefer the feel of smooth ABS — particularly on sets with a polished finish.
Which Lasts Longer?
PBT generally holds up better over time. The material is denser and more resistant to the oils and friction that cause ABS to shine. A well-made PBT set can look nearly new after years of use, while ABS sets often show visible wear on the most-used keys within months.
That said, legend durability depends more on the printing method than the material. Double-shot ABS and dye-sublimated PBT both produce legends that won't fade — the difference is in how the surface of the keycap itself ages.
Which Sounds Better?
PBT keycaps tend to produce a deeper, thockier sound due to their greater density and thickness. ABS keycaps are typically higher-pitched and clackier.
Neither is objectively better — it depends on the sound profile you're going for. If you want a deeper, more muted typing sound, PBT is usually the better choice. If you prefer a brighter, crisper sound, ABS can actually work in your favour, especially when paired with the right switches and foam dampening.
Which Is Better for Custom Keyboards?
For most custom keyboard builds, PBT is the more popular choice. The shine resistance, texture, and sound profile align well with what enthusiasts are typically looking for. All keycap sets in our All Keycaps collection use PBT with dye-sublimation printing for exactly these reasons.
ABS still has a place in custom builds, particularly for double-shot sets where colour accuracy and legend sharpness are priorities. Some high-end ABS sets are well-regarded in the community and hold up better than budget ABS options.
One thing to always check before buying: keycap compatibility. Make sure the set supports your keyboard's layout and switch type. Most sets are designed for MX-style switches and ANSI layouts, but it's worth confirming before you order. If you need tools for your build, our Keyboard Tools & Workspace Essentials collection has keycap pullers and switch openers to make the swap easier.
Final Recommendation
For most people, PBT is the better long-term choice. It resists shine, feels solid, and sounds good. If you type daily and want a keycap set that still looks clean after a year or two of daily use, PBT is the straightforward answer.
ABS is worth considering if you're after a specific double-shot set, a particular colour that isn't available in PBT, or a brighter sound profile. It's not a bad material — it just ages differently.
If you're not sure where to start, browse all keycap sets — all sets include material and compatibility details on the product page. Use code WELCOME10 for 10% off your first order.
FAQ
Do PBT keycaps shine over time?
PBT keycaps are significantly more resistant to shine than ABS, but they're not completely immune. With very heavy use over several years, some shine can develop — but it takes much longer than with ABS and is usually less noticeable.
Are ABS keycaps bad?
Not at all. ABS keycaps are used on many well-regarded keyboards and custom sets. The main drawback is shine over time. If you're using double-shot ABS and don't mind the surface aging, ABS can be a perfectly good choice — especially at lower price points.
Can I mix ABS and PBT keycaps on the same keyboard?
Technically yes, as long as the stem type and profile match. However, the texture and sound difference between the two materials will be noticeable, so mixing them is generally not recommended for a consistent feel.
How do I know if a keycap set is ABS or PBT?
Check the product description — reputable sellers always list the material. If it says dye-sublimation printing, it's almost certainly PBT. If it says double-shot, it could be either, so look for the material specification. When in doubt, contact the seller before ordering.