Building your own custom mechanical keyboard is more popular than ever in 2025—but once you’ve nailed down your layout and switches, your next big decision is: Which keycaps should you choose?
1. Keycap Materials: ABS, PBT, and Metal
ABS
Affordable and smooth, but prone to shine over time. Ideal for budget builds.
PBT
Durable, textured, and long-lasting. Great for everyday use or typing-focused setups.
Metal
Sleek, premium, and weighty. Our Awekeys Metal Keycaps (like the Hello Silver Set or Copper Eagle Set) offer unmatched visual impact and durability—perfect for high-end builds.
🔗 Check out our full collection of metal keycaps
2. Keycap Profiles: Shape Meets Function
OEM – Slightly curved and standard on many boards.
Cherry – Lower than OEM; great for comfortable typing.
SA – Tall and sculpted; visually striking.
DSA – Flat and uniform; good for sleek, low-profile builds.
3. Compatibility Matters
Before you buy, make sure your keycaps will fit:
Switch type: Most keycaps are designed for Cherry MX-style stems.
Layout: Full-size, TKL, 75%, or 60%—each has different key sizes.
Not sure? Check out our Keycap Compatibility Guide for all the details.
📐 Our metal keycaps are compatible with most MX-style mechanical switches and come with spacebar options like 6.25u, 7u, and more.
4. Best Keycap Sets for Custom Builds
For Beginners:
PBT OEM Keycaps – Affordable, durable, and easy to use.
Minimalist Design – Great for clean desk aesthetics.
For Aesthetic Builds:
Hello Silver Set – A matte metal look that works with white, silver, or gray boards.
Retro 80s Set – Perfect for nostalgic or vintage builds.
For Pro-Level Setups:
Copper Eagle Set – Bold and luxurious. Ideal for showpiece builds.
Full Metal Set – If you want weight, shine, and presence on your desk.
🎯 Already using a 75% layout? Our Touch87 Keyboard is fully compatible with our keycaps.
Final Thoughts
The right keycaps take your keyboard from average to exceptional. Whether you're building your first board or your tenth, investing in quality caps enhances both performance and aesthetics.
Explore Awekeys' metal keycaps and unlock a new level of expression.