Many people transform their keyboards to make their workspace more exciting and aesthetically pleasing. Keycaps, replaceable plastic key covers, are widely used by gamers and keyboard enthusiasts to upgrade their typing experience.
But what are keycaps? What do they do? And how do you choose the right ones for you? In this article, you will get an inside look at keycaps and how to use them for customizing your keyboard.
What Exactly Are Keycaps?
Keycaps are the small covers that sit on your computer keyboard. They are made of plastic, metal, or other materials and fit over the keyswitches. Keycaps indicate the function or character of each key. They not only protect the keys but also allow for customization and personalization of your keyboard.
The keys on a keyboard are arranged in a specific layout. Each key consists of two parts: the visible top portion known as a keycap or keytop, and the underlying mechanism that registers keystrokes.
How Do Keycaps Work?
Keycaps are designed to fit securely onto the stems of the switches. They align with the switch housing and sit directly on top of the switch mechanism. When you press a keycap, it applies pressure to the switch's stem, triggering the switch mechanism and registering the keystroke. Keycaps provide stability, alignment, and tactile feedback, while also allowing for customization of the keyboard’s appearance.
How Many Keycaps Are On a Keyboard?
The number of keys can vary slightly depending on the keyboard layout and specific model. This table provides a general reference for standard key counts based on common keyboard sizes.
What Are Keycaps Made Of?
Keycaps play a crucial role in both functionality and aesthetics. They are the visible covers that sit atop the switches, giving each key its distinctive look and feel. ABS and PBT are two types of plastics widely used in making keycaps.
Purpose of Keycaps
Keycaps are used for key identification and act as a protective layer for the underlying keyswitches. However, today, they also serve to decorate the keyboard and make it unique.
-
Key Identification: Keycaps feature legends or labels that indicate the function or character of each key. This makes it easier to identify specific keys, especially for those who use specialized keyboard layouts.
-
Aesthetics and Personalization: Keycaps offer a chance to customize the look and feel of your mechanical keyboard. From vibrant colors to unique designs, keycaps allow you to express your personal style. Artisan keycaps are highly sought-after collectibles crafted by independent artisans, adding a touch of artistry and individuality.
-
Typing Experience: Keycaps can significantly affect the typing feel. Different materials, profiles, and textures can alter the tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
-
Noise Dampening: Keycaps can influence the sound produced when typing. Thicker keycaps, such as those made of PBT, tend to produce a deeper and more muted sound.
-
Backlighting: Keycaps can also impact the visibility of keyboard backlighting. Keycaps with translucent or semi-transparent legends allow the backlighting to shine through, enhancing visibility in low-light environments.
Different Types of Keycaps
There are different types of keycaps for specific keyboard layouts or sizes. Factors that differentiate them include profile (shape), height, material, design, surface texture, and compatibility.
-
OEM Profile: The most common and widely used keycap profile. It features a slightly curved top surface and a cylindrical shape, providing a comfortable and familiar typing experience.
-
SA Profile: The SA profile offers a distinctive spherical shape and a taller height. It delivers a comfortable typing experience and a vintage aesthetic reminiscent of classic typewriters.
-
DSA Profile: The DSA profile features a flat, uniform profile with a diamond-shaped top surface. It offers a sleek and minimalist appearance and is known for compatibility with a wide range of layouts.
-
Cherry Profile: The Cherry profile is another widely recognized and popular keycap profile. It features a lower profile compared to OEM, providing a shorter key travel distance and a more compact look.
How Are Keycaps Manufactured?
Keycaps undergo an intricate manufacturing process:
-
Material Selection: Durable ABS or PBT plastics are often chosen, or artists may use unique materials like resin or clay.
-
Injection Molding: The melted material is injected into precise molds to form the keycap's shape.
-
Cooling and Demolding: Keycaps cool and solidify before being demolded.
-
Post-Processing: Refining and polishing create a smooth surface for customization.
-
Legends and Customization: Legends are added through printing, laser etching, or double-shot molding.
Best Places to Find New Keycaps
Keycaps, including mass-produced and artisan ones, are widely sold on e-commerce platforms and physical stores.
-
Amazon: This online retail giant offers a vast selection of keycaps from various manufacturers.
-
Etsy: For those seeking artisan keycaps crafted with passion and artistry, Etsy is a go-to platform where talented artisans offer unique, handmade keycaps.
-
MechanicalKeyboards.com: This dedicated keyboard enthusiast store is a treasure trove for keycap aficionados, with an extensive range of keycap sets.
-
HANDVN.com: This is an online store specializing in unique and eye-catching designs, with a collection that features artistic and artisanal keycaps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, keycaps are essential components that greatly impact the functionality and aesthetics of our keyboards. Understanding what keycaps are and the various options available allows you to personalize your keyboard to suit your unique style and preferences. From different profiles and materials to customization options, exploring the world of keycaps unlocks a world of possibilities to elevate your typing experience.
FAQs
What do keycaps do?Keycaps are used for key recognition and navigation, making your keyboard usage easy. They are also an avenue for personal expression.
Can I replace keycaps on my keyboard? Yes, you can replace keycaps on your keyboard to personalize its look and feel.
Do keycaps make a difference? Absolutely. Keycaps make a difference in terms of typing experience, functionality, and visibility.
Do keycaps affect typing? Yes, keycaps can affect typing by providing different textures and profiles for a unique feel.
Do keycaps affect the sound of typing on a keyboard? Yes, keycaps can affect the sound of typing, with materials and profiles influencing the acoustics.
What is the purpose of keycaps on a keyboard? The purpose of keycaps is to indicate key functions and provide a comfortable typing surface.
Are keycaps interchangeable? Yes, keycaps are often interchangeable, allowing you to swap them out for different styles or layouts.
Can I customize the design of my keycaps? Absolutely. You can customize the design of your keycaps through various methods like printing or artisan creations.
Are there keycaps for different switch types? Yes, there are keycaps designed specifically for different switch types, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
