Reviews

ABS vs PBT Keycaps:Which is Best

For keyboard users, Keyboard keycaps make one’s experience better, comfortable and convenient. This means it is wise to invest in keyboard that would consist of keycaps. This is important for those who type, uses their keyboard frequently and play games.

Keycaps are made in two different types of plastics – ABS vs PBT keycaps. This means that you will have to choose which one would suit you the best. However, this is difficult to do especially if you do not have worry as we shall help you by providing useful information and guide you through it.

ABS is known as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene. It is the most available plastic that is available for keyboards. PTB, on the other hand also known as Polybutylene Terephthalate is a material that is becoming more popular in the keyboard world.

To help you understand more about ABS and PTB, we have compared them by braking down in different factors.

Weight

One of the factors that matters when using a keyboard is its weight. As you know the heavier the key is the smoother you will be able to use it and the smoother the response it. Though this is the case, there are a lot people that prefer the light ones.

In terms of weight, ABS keys are very lightweight compared to PBS. In fact, PBS keys is twice the weight of their ABS counterparts. If you would like to have a smoother experience, then, it is recommended that you go with PBS.

Key Shine

This factor is something that comes with the course of time. This results to the oil produced by your fingers. It also reflects greater light. Shiny keys only happens when the keys are made of ABS plastic. Hence, if you wish for a smoother texture of keys, ABS is for you.

Noise

It depends on your preference. There are some people who get distracted by noise produced by the keycaps and they prefer to use keycaps that produce lesser noice.

In terms of noise, PBT keys are sturdier and ABS are hollow. This means ABS produces hollow sound or more commonly known as being clickier. This means, if you wish for something that is sturdier but loader, then PBT keys are your best bet.

Durability

Who does not want something that could last longer. Of course this is something that is very important. PBT, as we have mentioned earlier is sturdier but not only that, it is also more durable. ABS on the other hand, could become out of shape or bend easily.

Furthermore, DIY is more suitable for DIY dying.

Melting Point

Melting point is a factor that shows consistency and how mouldable keycaps are. Hence, the lower the melting point is the easier it is to mold them. ABS has lower melting point of 105 degrees and PBT has about 225 degrees. This means that ABS keys are more consistent compared to PBT keys. In other words, PBT is more difficult to assemble which means it would be more expensive.

Double Shot Keycaps

This factor is a result of molding two plastic into one another. This means you would not need to print on them. Double Shot Keycaps are usually made of ABS and they become shinier than PBTs.