Elliot Kim
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, there are a variety of factors to consider, such as the sound and feel of the keys. Two of the most common types of keycaps are ABS and PBT, each with its own unique characteristics. ABS keycaps are typically lighter and made with less material, resulting in a higher-pitched sound, while PBT keycaps are generally heavier and produce a deeper, crisper sound. Some people prefer the sound and feel of ABS keycaps, while others prefer the denser and smoother experience offered by PBT keycaps. The choice between ABS and PBT ultimately comes down to personal preference, as both options have their own advantages and passionate supporters.
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What You'll Learn
Thick ABS caps have a bassy sound
The sound of a keyboard with ABS and PBT keycaps depends on various factors, including the thickness of the keycaps, the quality of the keycaps, and the switches or keyboard being used.
Thick ABS caps are said to have a bassy sound. Some users prefer the sound of ABS keycaps, describing it as "classy". However, ABS keycaps are more susceptible to shine and yellowing over time due to the impact of finger oils, which can cause the keycaps to become glossy and the lettering to fade. This can be prevented through the use of thicker and rougher paint coatings or more expensive ABS keycaps, which can feel and sound significantly different.
On the other hand, PBT keycaps tend to have a deeper, crisper, and less tinny sound. They are generally louder and clearer, which many users find appealing as it enhances their acoustical pleasure and can activate ASMR. PBT keycaps are typically heavier and made with more material, resulting in a smoother and less slippery feel. However, PBT keycaps are more expensive than ABS keycaps due to the higher costs of raw materials, higher manufacturing temperatures, and increased quality control requirements.
While some users prefer the sound and feel of PBT keycaps, others find that thick ABS caps provide a more satisfying auditory experience. Ultimately, the preference between ABS and PBT keycaps is highly subjective, and users should consider their own personal preferences when deciding which type of keycap to use.
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PBT keycaps are typically louder
The difference in sound between ABS and PBT keycaps is a topic of discussion among keyboard enthusiasts. Some people prefer the sound of ABS keycaps, while others find that PBT keycaps provide a more pleasing auditory experience.
The sound of ABS keycaps is described as slightly higher pitched, with thicker ABS caps having an extra bassy and classy sound. Some people prefer the sound of ABS keycaps, as they can create a "thicc" sound that PBT keycaps cannot replicate. However, others find the sound of ABS keycaps to be cheap and hollow.
The preference for either PBT or ABS keycaps often comes down to personal preference. Some people may prefer the louder and deeper sound of PBT keycaps, while others may find the higher-pitched sound of ABS keycaps more appealing. Additionally, the feel of the keycaps may also play a role in people's preferences, with PBT keycaps providing a silky or smooth sensation that gives the typist a better connection to the keyboard.
It is worth noting that the sound of keycaps can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard's construction, the use of o-rings, and the microphone used for recording. Therefore, it is always recommended to test out different keycaps and keyboards to find the combination that best suits one's preferences.
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ABS keycaps are more prone to shine and yellowing
While some people prefer the shininess and slick feel of ABS keycaps, the smoothness can lead to slipping issues, as fingers don't have much friction to grip the keycap. Additionally, the lettering on ABS keycaps can wear out and fade over time due to frequent usage, cleaning, or exposure to certain cleaning products like acetone.
In contrast, PBT keycaps are more durable and resistant to shine and wear. They have a matte finish and a more substantial feel. However, PBT keycaps are typically more expensive than ABS keycaps and have a limited selection of double-shot keycap sets that accommodate RGB and backlit keyboards.
Some people may prefer the sound of ABS keycaps, as they produce a mild-to-low, soft sound when typing. The thinner layer of ABS keycaps lacks resonance, making the sound hollow and dull compared to the deeper, crisper, and less tinny sound of PBT keycaps.
Overall, while ABS keycaps are more prone to shine and yellowing, the choice between ABS and PBT keycaps ultimately depends on personal preferences and priorities.
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PBT keycaps are generally more expensive
The higher price of PBT keycaps can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, PBT keycap sets typically use more material than ABS keycap sets, making them heavier. This increased material usage contributes to the higher production costs of PBT keycaps. Additionally, PBT keycaps have a unique feel that is silky or smooth, providing a distinct tactile experience for typists. This superior tactile quality is another factor that justifies the higher price of PBT keycaps.
Furthermore, PBT keycaps are known for their deeper, crisper, and less tinny sound when typing compared to ABS keycaps. This sound profile is often preferred by those who enjoy louder and clearer acoustics, enhancing their typing experience. The thicker plastic used in PBT keycaps contributes to their distinct sound characteristics, which may appeal to those seeking a deeper sound.
While PBT keycaps offer advantages in terms of feel and sound, it's important to note that ABS keycaps are the industry norm, and thus, they are much easier to produce due to the material used. This ease of production contributes to the generally lower price of ABS keycaps. Additionally, ABS keycaps can shine through RGB colours more effectively than PBT keycaps, making them a preferred choice for those who value aesthetics and customizability.
In summary, PBT keycaps are generally more expensive than ABS keycaps due to their higher production costs, unique tactile feel, and distinct sound profile. However, ABS keycaps remain the more commonly used option due to their ease of production and aesthetic advantages, providing a more affordable choice for most users.
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ABS keycaps are lighter and made with less material
ABS keycaps are typically lighter and made with less material than PBT keycaps. This means that ABS keycaps can often feel thin and cheap when typing. However, there are premium ABS keycaps that feel significantly different, though they can cost upwards of $150 for the set, which is why they rarely come included on a new keyboard. ABS keycaps are also more susceptible to shine and yellowing.
ABS keycaps are the norm, so the vast majority of people use them. They are much easier to produce due to the material, and they can look much better than PBT keycaps. They can also complement RGB keyboards better than PBT keycaps because it is easier to make ABS keycaps that shine through RGB colours. Some people like the shininess of ABS keycaps, as well as the slick feel.
However, the major drawback of ABS keycaps is that they can wear and become shiny, and the lettering can begin to fade and even wear off completely over time. ABS keycaps are also inherently susceptible to finger oils, which can cause them to turn glossy.
The sound of ABS keycaps is also different from that of PBT keycaps. While some people may prefer the sound of ABS, others may find it cheap-sounding. ABS keycaps tend to create slightly higher-pitched sounds, with thicker ABS caps having extra bass. On the other hand, PBT keycaps tend to have a deeper, crisper, and less tinny sound. PBT keycaps are generally louder and clearer than ABS keycaps, which many enjoy as it enhances their acoustical pleasure and may even activate ASMR.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, they do. PBT keycaps tend to have a deeper, crisper, and less tinny sound than ABS keycaps. ABS keycaps tend to create slightly higher-pitched sounds, especially if the caps are thin.
PBT keycaps are generally louder and clearer than ABS keycaps.
ABS plastic keycaps are the norm, so the vast majority of people use them. However, some people are passionate about PBT keycaps.
Yes, PBT keycaps typically use more material than ABS keycaps and are usually heavier. ABS keycaps are typically lighter and made with less material, so they can feel thin and cheap when typing.
