ABS and PBT keycaps represent the two dominant materials used in mechanical keyboard keycaps, each offering distinct advantages and trade-offs. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) keycaps are the more affordable, widely available option, favored for their smooth finish, vibrant color options, and compatibility with backlit keyboards due to superior light transmission. However, they degrade faster, developing a shiny, oily texture over time and losing printed legends with prolonged use ^[1][2][5]. PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) keycaps, by contrast, prioritize durability with a thicker, textured build that resists shine, UV fading, and heat deformation, though they come at a higher cost and offer fewer color variations ^[2][4][6]. The choice between them ultimately hinges on balancing budget, aesthetic preferences, and long-term performance needs.

Key differences at a glance:

• Durability: PBT lasts significantly longer without wear or shine, while ABS degrades within months of heavy use ^[2][5]
• Texture: PBT features a matte, grainy surface; ABS starts smooth but becomes slick and shiny over time ^[3][9]
• Cost: ABS keycaps are 20-50% cheaper to produce and purchase than PBT ^[4][7]
• Color options: ABS supports vibrant, varied colors and translucency for RGB lighting; PBT colors are typically muted ^[5][10]

Material and Performance Comparison

Durability and Wear Resistance

PBT keycaps outperform ABS in nearly every durability metric, making them the preferred choice for users prioritizing longevity. The material’s molecular structure resists abrasion from finger oils, UV exposure, and repeated keystrokes, maintaining its original texture and appearance for years. Tests show PBT keycaps retain their matte finish even after 5+ years of daily use, while ABS keycaps begin shining within 3-6 months ^[2][5]. This resistance extends to legend durability: double-shot PBT keycaps (where legends are molded from a separate plastic layer) rarely fade, whereas ABS legends often wear away entirely with heavy typing ^[4][6].

The thermal properties further separate the two materials. PBT’s higher melting point (223°C vs ABS’s 105°C) prevents warping during manufacturing or under extreme conditions, while ABS can deform if exposed to direct sunlight or high ambient temperatures ^[5][9]. This thermal stability also contributes to PBT’s resistance to:

• Oil absorption: Finger oils bead on PBT’s surface rather than seeping in ^[6]
• UV degradation: PBT colors remain vibrant longer; ABS yellows or fades ^[2]
• Impact damage: PBT’s thicker construction (typically 1.2–1.5mm vs ABS’s 0.8–1.2mm) reduces cracking risk ^[7]

ABS’s primary durability advantage lies in its flexibility during production, allowing for thinner walls and complex shapes, but this comes at the cost of structural integrity over time ^[9]. For gamers or typists who press keys aggressively, PBT’s rigidity provides a more consistent feel without the "mushy" sensation that worn ABS develops ^[3].

Texture, Sound, and User Experience

The tactile differences between ABS and PBT keycaps create distinct typing experiences that influence user preference. PBT’s naturally textured, matte surface provides grip and reduces finger slippage, which many users describe as a "premium" feel compared to ABS’s initial smoothness ^[3][9]. This texture also affects sound profile: PBT keycaps produce a deeper, more muted "thock" when pressed, while ABS tends toward a higher-pitched "clack," though this varies by keycap profile and switch type ^[3][4].

ABS keycaps undergo a noticeable transformation over time:

• Initial phase: Smooth, slightly glossy surface with minimal friction ^[5]
• Break-in period (1–3 months): Develops a "polished" sheen in high-contact areas (e.g., WASD, spacebar) ^[1]
• Long-term use (6+ months): Becomes slick and greasy-feeling due to oil absorption ^[8]

PBT avoids this degradation entirely, though its texture can feel overly rough to users accustomed to ABS. The sound differences stem from material density: PBT’s higher density dampens vibrations, creating a more subdued acoustic profile that some describe as "more professional" ^[3]. ABS, being lighter, transmits more high-frequency noise, which can be preferable for users who enjoy crisp, clicky feedback ^[4].

Color and customization options introduce another layer of distinction. ABS supports:

• Vibrant, opaque colors (e.g., GMK’s bright reds, blues) ^[10]
• Translucent designs for RGB backlighting (e.g., "pudding" keycaps) ^[6]
• Gradients and multi-color legends via dye-sublimation ^[4]

PBT’s manufacturing limitations restrict it to:

• Muted, earthy tones (e.g., grays, blacks, dark greens) ^[5]
• Solid colors (fewer gradients or intricate designs) ^[7]
• Opaque finishes (poor light transmission for RGB) ^[6]

This trade-off means ABS dominates the custom keycap market for aesthetic-focused builds, while PBT appeals to those prioritizing function over form. The choice often reflects whether a user values visual customization or long-term tactile consistency.