The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Keycaps for Your Mac: Upgrade Your Typing Experience

Introduction: When it comes to customizing your Mac setup, one of the easiest and most impactful ways to do so is by upgrading your keycaps. Whether you're a professional, gamer, or just someone who enjoys a better typing experience, choosing the right keycaps for your Mac keyboard can make a world of difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the best keycaps for your Mac, from material and design to compatibility and comfort. Let’s get started!

the photo above is Awekeys Titanium Black Keycaps

Why Keycaps Matter for Mac Users

Keycaps are more than just functional—they play a crucial role in the feel and aesthetics of your keyboard. The right keycaps can:

• Improve typing comfort and accuracy
• Enhance the overall look of your workspace
• Provide a satisfying tactile response

For Mac users, keycaps need to not only fit the keyboard layout but also match the clean and minimalist design of the device. Whether you are replacing standard keycaps or building a custom setup, here are some essential factors to consider when choosing the right keycaps.

1. Keycap Material: Choose What Feels Best

The material of your keycaps directly influences their feel, durability, and sound. The most common materials for keycaps include:

• Metal: Metal keycaps are often more affordable and provide a smooth feel. However, they tend to wear out over time and can develop a shiny appearance with frequent use.
• PBT: PBT keycaps are more durable and resistant to wear and shine. They offer a sturdier and slightly rougher texture, ideal for long-term use.
• POM: Known for its smoothness and durability, POM keycaps are great for a premium feel and are more resistant to fading.

Pro Tip: If you want long-lasting keycaps, Metal is your best bet, but if you prefer a softer touch, PBT keycaps might be more to your liking.

2. Compatibility: Ensure They Fit Your Mac

One of the key considerations when selecting keycaps for your Mac is compatibility. Mac keyboards typically use a US layout (ANSI) but some may require specialized keycaps for Mac-specific keys like Command, Option, and Delete.

Before purchasing, ensure the keycaps you choose are designed to fit the size and layout of your Mac’s keyboard. You can easily check for compatibility by verifying the switch type (e.g., Cherry MX, Gateron, etc.) and ensuring the keycap profiles align with your Mac’s switch structure.

3. Keycap Profile: Choose the Right Height and Shape

The keycap profile refers to the shape and height of the individual keycaps. There are different profiles, each offering a unique typing experience. Here are some common profiles:

• OEM Profile: The most common profile, offering a comfortable typing angle with a slight curve.
• Cherry Profile: Shorter and more ergonomic, with a low profile for smoother keypresses.
• SA Profile: Tall and sculpted, providing a vintage look and feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.

Pro Tip: For a sleek and minimalist design that complements your Mac, the Cherry profile is often the most popular choice among Mac users.

4. Aesthetic Design: Match Your Mac’s Style

Your Mac’s design is sleek and sophisticated, and the keycaps you choose should reflect that. Keycaps come in a wide variety of colors, from subtle monochromes to vibrant and artistic designs. If you’re aiming for a clean, minimalist look, opt for neutral colors like white, gray, or black. For a more personalized touch, you can go for keycaps with artistic prints, backlighting options, or custom designs.

the photo above is Awekeys Odin Gold Keycaps

5. Budget: Get Quality Within Your Price Range

Keycaps come in a variety of price ranges. Budget keycaps made from ABS are generally affordable but may wear out more quickly. High-end keycaps made from PBT or POM are more durable and offer a premium feel, but they can cost more. Consider your budget and how much you're willing to invest in your typing experience.

FAQ: Your Keycap Questions Answered

Q1: Can I use any keycaps on my Mac keyboard?

A1: No, not all keycaps are compatible with Mac keyboards. Ensure the keycaps you choose are designed to fit your keyboard layout and switch type (e.g., Cherry MX, Gateron). Some keycaps are designed specifically for Mac, featuring custom keys for Command, Option, and other Mac-specific functions.

Q2: Do I need to replace all the keycaps on my Mac keyboard?

A2: You can replace just the keycaps you want to change, or you can swap out the entire set for a fresh look and feel. Many people choose to upgrade only the most-used keys like the spacebar, enter key, or function keys.

Q3: Will keycap profiles affect my typing speed or accuracy?

A3: Yes, keycap profiles can impact your comfort, typing speed, and accuracy. Some profiles are more ergonomic, while others provide a more tactile experience. It’s a matter of personal preference, so experiment to find the profile that works best for you.

Q4: How do I clean my keycaps?

A4: To clean your keycaps, gently remove them using a keycap puller. Soak the keycaps in warm water with mild soap, then scrub them gently with a soft brush. Dry them thoroughly before reattaching them to your keyboard.

Conclusion: 

the photo above is Awekeys Titanium Black Keycaps

Upgrading your Mac’s keycaps can significantly enhance your typing experience, whether you’re looking for better comfort, aesthetics, or sound. By considering factors like material, profile, compatibility, and design, you can find the perfect keycaps to match your style and preferences. Happy typing!