Not all keycaps are created equal. If you’ve ever swapped out a cheap set for something high-end, you know the difference is instantly noticeable. But what actually makes a keycap set premium? Here are five details to pay attention to before upgrading your board.
1. Material: It Starts with the Core
Keycap material plays a major role in both durability and feel. The most common materials are ABS and PBT—but premium sets often go beyond plastic.
ABS: Lightweight and smooth, but prone to shine and wear
PBT: Matte texture, more durable, less shine over time.
Metal: Ultra-durable, weighty, and visually striking.
Awekeys metal keycaps are CNC-machined from real metal, offering a premium tactile feel and long-term durability that plastic simply can’t match.
2. Manufacturing Precision
Look closely at your keycaps. High-end sets feature:
Crisp legends (for printed or engraved keys)
Perfect stem alignment (for a snug switch fit)
Uniform surface finish (no rough edges or inconsistencies)
Cheap keycaps may look decent from afar—but wobbly stems or uneven texture will ruin the experience.
At Awekeys, we also offer a free customization tool that lets you adjust and test layout fit before purchase—helping you avoid loose or unstable stems and other common fitting issues.
3. Profile & Sculpting
Premium sets often come in multiple profiles:
Cherry: Low, sculpted, ergonomic.
OEM: Common on prebuilt boards.
SA/DSA: Tall or uniform; popular for aesthetics.
The profile affects not only the look but how your keyboard feels while typing. Consistent sculpting and clear row transitions are markers of a well-designed set.
Awekeys supports a wide range of profiles for different preferences—making it easy to find your ideal match.
4. Aesthetic Design & Finish
A premium keycap set should make your board feel like your own.
Colors should be rich and consistent.
Special finishes (like metallic, matte, or shine-through) add personality.
Unique design touches—like our Vikings Antiques Set or Hello Silver Set—turn a good build into a masterpiece.
5. Fit and Compatibility
No matter how great a keycap looks, it needs to fit right.
MX-style compatibility is a must.
Spacebar sizes (6.25u, 7u), shift keys, and bottom rows must align.
Premium brands provide compatibility charts or help confirm sizing—so you don’t end up with mismatched keys.
Still unsure? Contact us—we’re happy to confirm fit before your order.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want a minimalist upgrade or a bold statement piece, investing in a premium keycap set transforms your keyboard experience.
Awekeys metal keycaps are engineered for precision, comfort, and unforgettable style—crafted for those who take their setups seriously.