Why Are Keycaps So Expensive?

If you’ve ever browsed for a new set of mechanical keyboard keycaps, you might have noticed something surprising — some sets cost as much, or even more, than the keyboard itself. It’s a question many newcomers ask: Why are keycaps so expensive? Let’s break it down.

1. Premium Materials Cost More

The first factor is materials. Most mass-market keycaps are made of ABS plastic, which is affordable but tends to get shiny over time. PBT plastic is more durable and keeps its matte texture longer, but costs more to produce.

Then there’s metal keycaps — like our Copper Eagle Set or Hello Silver Set. These require high-grade metals, CNC machining, and specialized finishes such as anodizing or sandblasting. They last virtually forever, but that durability and premium feel come with higher production costs.

2. Manufacturing Complexity

Keycaps aren’t just chunks of material. They’re precision-crafted to fit tightly on switches, with specific shapes, legends, and textures. High-quality plastic keycaps often use double-shot molding, dye-sublimation, or laser etching to ensure legends never fade.

Metal keycaps add another layer of complexity — requiring CNC milling, polishing, and surface treatment. Small-scale production runs mean each unit costs more to make compared to mass-market plastic caps.

3. Limited Editions & Collector’s Value

Many premium keycaps are produced in limited runs. Artisan keycaps, themed sets like our Vikings Antique Series, or retro-inspired collections such as Retro 80s White are often made in small batches. This rarity drives up demand and price, much like collector’s items in other hobbies.

4. Niche Community Demand

The mechanical keyboard community is passionate, but small compared to mainstream electronics markets. Because the audience is niche, manufacturers can’t produce millions of units to reduce cost — instead, they focus on quality, uniqueness, and customization, which inevitably raises the price.

 

Are Expensive Keycaps Worth It?

If you see your keyboard as just a tool, budget keycaps might be enough. But if you value durability, feel, and design, high-end sets — especially metal keycaps — are an investment that can last for years without losing their appeal.

At Awekeys, we design full-metal keycaps to combine luxury aesthetics with long-term performance. From minimalist silver to bold copper, each set is made to turn your keyboard into a statement piece.

🔗 Browse our full collection of premium keycaps and upgrade your setup today.