15 Best OEM Keycaps for Every Budget in 2024

  • Keycaps 101
  • Posted by: amy-golden
  • Jul 31, 2023

OEM is the standard shape and size of most keycaps. No matter how well you know it, finding the best OEM keycaps is still a challenge as you can't go a day without encountering them on mass-market mechanical keyboards.

Not to worry! This list of the 15 best OEM keycaps with outstanding features will come to the rescue.

New to OEM? Give this OEM profile guide a read to get clear about this keycap profile.

What is the best OEM keycap?

Name

Special Features Rating Price

Backlit Double-shot Gradient PBT Keycap Set

Backlit double-shot gradient pbt keycap set

  • Double-shot PBT
  • 104 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
3.6/5 $24.99

Canvas PBT Keycap Set

Canvas pbt keycap set

  • Dye-sub PBT
  • 105/122 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
$30.90

YMDK Carbon OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Shine Keycaps

Ymdk carbon oem profile double-shot pbt shine keycaps

  • Double-shot PBT
  • 108/122 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
4.5/5 $31.50 (108 key)

$34.50 (122 key)

XY Dip-Dye Double-shot Keycap Set

Xy dip-dye double-shot keycap set

  • Dip-dye, Double-shot PBT
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
$35.00

LOOP Pudding V2 Double-shot PBT Shine-Through Keycap Set

Loop pudding v2 double-shot pbt shine-through keycap set

  • Double-shot PBT
  • 142 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
3.9/5 $35.00

IDOBAO Matcha Keycaps Green Cute PBT Keycaps

Idobao matcha keycaps green cute pbt keycaps

  • Dye-sub PBT
  • 128 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
4.5/5 $35.49

Happy Balls Dark Blue and White OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Keycaps

Happy balls dark blue and white oem profile double-shot pbt keycaps

  • Double-shot PBT
  • 134 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
4.4/5 $39.99

EPOMAKER Rudy OEM Profile Double-Shot PBT Keycaps

Epomaker rudy oem profile double-shot pbt keycaps

  • Double-shot PBT
  • 135 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
4.6/5 $39.99

Keychron Retro OEM Profile Dye-Sub PBT Keycaps

Keychron retro oem profile dye-sub pbt keycaps

  • Dye-sub PBT
  • 61/68/82/84/87/100/104 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
5/5 $40.00

NPKC Gradient PBT Double-shot Side-Lit Keycap Set

Npkc gradient pbt double-shot side-lit keycap set

4.5/5 $45.00

Tai-Hao Miami OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Keycaps

Tai-hao miami oem profile double-shot pbt keycaps

  • Double-shot PBT
  • 104 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
4.3/5 $45.99

Tai-Hao PBT Double-shot Cubic Keycap Set

Tai-hao pbt double-shot cubic keycap set

  • Double-shot PBT
  • 142 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
4.0/5 $65.17

The Keytok CTRL Semi-Transparent Keycaps

The keytok ctrl semi-transparent keycaps

  • Dye-sub PBT
  • 122 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
4.6/5 $72.00

Pixel Ocean Theme OEM Profile Keycaps

Pixel ocean theme oem profile keycaps

  • Dye-sub PBT
  • 128 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
$88.00

Sumgsn Halloween Keycaps

Sumgsn halloween keycaps

  • Dye-Sub PBT
  • 108 keys
  • Cherry MX and clones compatible
4.7/5 $99.99

Note: The mentioned price is current at the time of writing and is subject to change. Please make real-time pricing checks before making any purchase decisions.

EPOMAKER Rudy OEM Profile Double-Shot PBT Keycaps

Features

  • Model name: EPOMAKER Rudy OEM Profile Double-Shot PBT Keycaps
  • Brand: EPOMAKER
  • Keycap material: Double-shot PBT
  • Color: Rudy Color Scheme
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 135 keys
  • Item weight: 0.82 lbs

EPOMAKER Ruby is a go-to OEM keycap set for anyone who loves classic design.

Epomaker rudy oem double-shot pbt keycaps
epomaker rudy oem double-shot pbt keycaps (source: amazon)

Inspired by the American football film, Rudy, this set will give you the perfect contrasting combination of navy blue and white color with a beige spacebar. Not to mention, the legends are well-printed. You could not find any inconsistencies with this Ruby set.

However, some avid typists will easily notice the flawed hollow sound from the spacebar.

At the end of the day, this pocket-friendly set is still the best OEM keycaps thanks to its unique colorway and solid texture to suit most keeb lovers’ tastes.

Pros

Cons

  • Uniform and sturdy design
  • Large and clear legends
  • Compatibility with various keyboard layouts
  • The space bar sounds hollow and high-pitched
  • The texture will wear off after a long use

Keychron Retro OEM Profile Dye-Sub PBT Keycaps

Features

  • Model name: Keychron OEM Profile PBT Retro Keycap Set
  • Brand: Keychron
  • Keycap material: Dye-Sub PBT
  • Color: Retro
  • RGB Light: No
  • Number of Keys: 61/68/82/84/87/100/104 keys

Want to add a nostalgic touch to your desk? Keychron Retro OEM Profile Dye-Sub PBT Keycaps are worth a look.

Keychron retro oem profile dye-sub pbt keycaps
keychron retro oem profile dye-sub pbt keycaps (source: keychron)

What makes this set stand out from the crowd is its retro vibe adorned with dye-sublimated classic italic legends. Besides, this set will last for decades thanks to its thickness of 1.4 mm.

Keychron Retro offers various choices of key numbers, fitting any keyboard version. You can always pick a set regardless of your keyboard layout.

Yet, you may be disappointed that the keyboard's backlighting fails to shine through the legends. So, think twice if you are a night owl.

Pros

Cons

  • Durable
  • Timeless retro color scheme and unique legends
  • Fit most keyboard layouts
  • Keycap surface gives a subtle feeling
  • Lack of RGB
  • Not everyone is familiar with italic legends

Do you want to look at italic legends closer? Watch this video:

YMDK Carbon OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Shine Keycaps

Features

  • Model name: YMDK Carbon OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Shine Keycaps
  • Brand: YMDK
  • Keycap material: Double-shot PBT
  • Color: Carbon
  • RGB Light: No (Single Color only)
  • Number of Keys: 108/122 keys
  • Item weight: 0.22 lbs

Look for a durable OEM keycap set without breaking the bank? YMDK Carbon OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Shine Keycaps are your must-have typing buddy.

Ymdk carbon oem profile double-shot pbt shine keycaps
ymdk carbon oem profile double-shot pbt shine keycaps (source: reddit)

YMDK Carbon OEM keycaps are made of superior thick double-shot PBT ensuring to deliver a pleasant and joyful typing experience.

This OEM keycap set can perfectly fit most standard 61, 87, 104, and 108 ANSI MX switches. But keep in mind that they are incompatible with some layouts using special Shift, Alt, Fn, and other keys.

While it lacks RGB, the YMDK Carbon has backlighting that shines through bright tone keycaps, making it dynamic and vibrant in the dark.

Pros

Cons

  • Waterproof
  • Long-lasting
  • Quite thicker than cheap stock keycaps
  • The bold legends are big and crisp
  • No RGB
  • No OS keys for Mac and Linux

Here is a quick review video for you to better know this keycap set:

Tai-Hao Miami OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Keycaps

Features

  • Model name: Tai-Hao Miami OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Keycaps
  • Brand: Tai-Hao
  • Keycap material: Double-shot PBT
  • Color: Miami
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 104 keys (8 keys UK ISO Add-on)

You now can spice up your workspace with the vibrance colorway of Tai-Hao Miami OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Keycaps.

Tai-hao miami oem profile double-shot pbt keycaps
tai-hao miami oem profile double-shot pbt keycaps (source: ashopsz)

Designed with durability and aesthetics in mind, Tai-Hao keycaps ranked fourth among our best OEM keycaps. It prides itself on having cool dual-color patterns inspired by the 1980s Miami Vice TV show.

Additionally, Tai-Hao keycaps can survive in high temperatures. They are also resistant to friction and wear, ensuring you can accompany this set for years.

The only downside is that the printed legends are not really clear and even match the color of the keycaps. If you are bad at typing fast, you might not like this.

Anyway, these vivid keycaps will surely catch your eye and make your keyboard pop off a desktop in style.

Pros

Cons

  • Unique eye-catching color scheme
  • High durability over time
  • Include plastic keycaps puller

Confusing legends

Happy Balls Dark Blue and White OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Keycaps

Features

  • Model name: Happy Balls OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Keycaps
  • Brand: Happy Balls
  • Keycap material: Double-shot PBT
  • Color: Blue White and Yellow
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 134 keys
  • Item weight: 0.85 lbs

The Happy Balls OEM Profile Double-shot PBT Keycaps Set is a great way to give your mechanical keyboard a new and refreshing look.

With a translucent double-color injection molding design, these keycaps are perfect for gamers and typists looking to glow while they work.

Happy balls oem profile double-shot pbt keycaps
happy balls oem profile double-shot pbt keycaps (source: amazon)

Like Keychron Retro, the keycaps are around 1.4mm thick, which provides a good balance between durability and typing comfort.

Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that Happy Balls keycaps may not work with some non-standard US layout mechanical keyboards.

Pros

Cons

  • Durable
  • The translucent backlit design sparkles wonderfully at night
  • Include plastic keycaps puller
  • The blue keys look milky when lit up
  • Compatibility issues

Sumgsn Halloween Keycaps

Features

  • Model name: Sumgsn Halloween Keycaps
  • Brand: Sumgsn
  • Keycap material: Dye-Sub PBT
  • Color: Halloween-theme
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 108 keys
  • Item weight: 0.79 lbs

Are you a horror fan? So does this set look spooky enough? Sumgsn Halloween Keycaps have a scary look, making it an amazing gift for Halloween or any other occasion as long as your buddy likes it.

Sumgsn halloween keycaps
sumgsn halloween keycaps (source: amazon)

There is a trade-off, though. While all-white keycaps come with contrasting black legends, some black keys with Halloween icons may confuse you since there is no number and letters printed.

One minus point is that the keycaps may not perfectly fit all keyboards. Don't forget to double-check the size and compatibility of the keycaps before you go.

Pros

Cons

  • Designed especially for Halloween
  • High-quality PBT
  • Most expensive on this list
  • Not compatible with certain keyboards
  • Some keys have icons only, making it difficult to identify legends

IDOBAO Matcha Keycaps Green Cute PBT Keycaps

Features

  • Model name: IDOBAO Matcha Keycaps Green Cute PBT Keycaps
  • Brand: IDOBAO
  • Keycap material: Dye-sub PTE
  • Color: Matcha
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 128 keys
  • Item weight: 0.57 lbs

IDOBAO Matcha Keycaps can give a fresh look to something so "typical". The green matcha tone looks super sleek adding a unique and adorable touch to your keyboards.

Idobao matcha keycaps green cute pbt keycaps
idobao matcha keycaps green cute pbt keycaps (source: amazon)

Notably, the surface is as smooth as butter, and the hand feel is extremely nice. They appear to be durable and thick enough to survive a lot of typing abuse.

Unfortunately, the legends are inconsistent. Some legends are thicker than others. Some customers have reported that the keycaps produce an unpleasant hollow sound.

Pros

Cons

  • Nice thickness with a great texture
  • Legends with different languages
  • Hollow sound
  • Color shining through the green is not appealing
  • Inconsistent legends

NPKC Gradient PBT Doubleshot Side-Lit Keycap Set

Features

  • Model name: NPKC Gradient PBT Doubleshot Side-Lit Keycap Set
  • Brand: NPKC
  • Keycap material: Thick PBT
  • Color: Sunset Blue/ Sky Blue
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 104 keys
  • Item weight: 0.6 lbs

Do you want something weird? You’ve come to the right place. This NPKC Gradient cute pastel keycap set comes with neatly hidden legends printed on the front side. It looks much more great in the RGB light shows. But white-led legends are almost invisible under very bright light.

Npkc gradient pbt doubleshot side-lit keycap set
npkc gradient pbt doubleshot side-lit keycap set (source: drop)

One more con is that some people may not be in love with the gamer-like typeface used for the legends (not a big issue though). Instead, the velvety matte surface with a smooth matte finish will be a worthy savior for such a minor flaw.

Pros

Cons

  • Vibrant colorway
  • Look great with RGB/backlight
  • Front-printed legends

Limited compatibility with various keyboard layouts

Take a while to enjoy this video if you don’t want to miss the RGB light party with NPKC Gradient PBT Doubleshot Side-Lit Keycap

LOOP Pudding V2 Double-shot PBT Shine-Through Keycap Set

Features

  • Model name: LOOP Pudding V2 Double-shot PBT Shine-Through Keycap Set
  • Brand: LOOP
  • Keycap material: Double-shot PBT
  • Color: Black
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 142 keys

This set of LOOP Pudding V2 keycaps gives users a good feel when typing. The shine-through legends ensure that they won't fade over time. Besides, with brilliant RGB with a matte texture, these pudding keycaps almost satisfy everyone's eyes, even the hardest keeb enthusiasts.

Loop pudding v2 keycap set
loop pudding v2 keycap set (source: drop)

Be mindful! Pudding keycaps don't often feel or sound nice. To be honest, the pitch of these caps isn't the lowest or stockiest, yet they're still ideal in comparison to the other options in their category.

Pros

Cons

  • Fit nearly all keyboard layout
  • Vibrant RGB
  • Thin keycaps
  • Does not sound great

Tai-Hao PBT Double-shot Cubic Keycap Set

Features

  • Model name: Tai-Hao PBT Double-shot Cubic Keycap Set
  • Brand: Tai-Hao
  • Keycap material: Double-shot PBT
  • Color: Spring in Kyoto
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 142 keys

Bring Spring into each typing!

This Tai-Hao Cubic profile Spring in Kyoto keycap set smoothly transitions from deep violet to light rose, inspired by the cherry blossom blooming season.

Tai-hao pbt double-shot cubic keycap set
tai-hao pbt double-shot cubic keycap set (source: reddit)

The set is made of PBT material in a Cubic profile, a combination of OEM and Cherry profile, gently embracing your fingertips as you go from key to key.

Despite looking good overall, this set has LED issues. You cannot read the keys well on a keyboard with south-facing LEDs. Luckily, you can still read the top row with north-facing LED but in very low light.

Pros

Cons

  • Pleasant feel
  • Neat design
  • Hollow sound
  • South-face for LEDs makes the keycaps illegible.

The Keytok CTRL Semi-Transparent Keycaps

Features

  • Model name: The Keytok CTRL Semi-Transparent Keycaps
  • Brand: Keytok
  • Keycap material: Dye-sub PBT
  • Color: Mint/Orange/Purple
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 122 keys

The Keytok CTRL Semi-Transparent Keycaps Set combines a classic style with a modern design to create a truly one-of-a-kind hybrid-finish keycap set.

The keytok ctrl semi-transparent keycaps
the keytok ctrl semi-transparent keycaps (source: keebmonkey)

The coolest thing is that this set may push double-shot keycaps to a new level, semi-transparent. The manufacturer employs groundbreaking technology used for the injection molding of these keycaps.

One side of the keycap is built from colorful, translucent Poly-carbonate material, which allows the RGB light from your keyboard to shine through the keycap, delivering beautiful illumination. 

Pros

Cons

  • Silky smooth with a slight texture for grip
  • Unique design

Some legends are off-center

Watch the video with the detailed review below to see whether Keytok CTRL Semi-Transparent Keycaps Set is a good investment.

Pixel Ocean Theme OEM Profile Keycaps

Features

  • Model name: Pixel Ocean Theme OEM Profile Keycaps
  • Brand: Pixel
  • Keycap material: Dye-sub PBT
  • Color: Ocean theme
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 128 keys
Pixel ocean theme oem profile keycaps
pixel ocean theme oem profile keycaps (source: aliexpress)

Pixel Ocean Theme OEM Profile Keycaps will let you enjoy moonlight on the ocean right on your keyboard. Or you may see it as a colorful rainbow even in the dark.

This set has the second-highest price on this list. However, considering its sturdy construction with side light transmission backlight feature, it is worth paying more bucks.

Pros

Cons

  • Colorful theme
  • Fit most mechanical keyboards on the market
  • The sound is not consistent and varies between the white and green keys
  • Some may find the letters unclear and wonky

Canvas PBT Keycap Set

Features

  • Model name: Canvas PBT Keycap Set
  • Brand: Canvas
  • Keycap material: Dye-sub PBT
    • Color: Macaron Color
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 105/122 keys
Backlit doubleshot gradient pbt keycap set
Backlit doubleshot gradient pbt keycap set (source: esty)

Much like the Pixel Ocean above, this Canvas PBT Keycap Set brings users a sense of vibrancy. But this time everything is more minimalist with gentle tones.

For only $30, you can bring this guy home!

But these keycaps are quite flimsy at first glance due to the unstable texture. You should consider carefully if you value durability.

Pros

Cons

  • Very affordable
  • Cute colorway

Low-quality made

Backlit Double shot Gradient PBT Keycap Set

Features

  • Model name: Backlit Doubleshot Gradient PBT Keycap Set
  • Brand: Gliging
  • Keycap material: Double-shot PBT
  • Color: Sunset/Purple/Blue
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 104 keys
  • Item weight: 0.39 lbs

We are reviewing the most affordable option in today’s list, Backlit Doubleshot Gradient PBT Keycap Set.

What will you get for just a few dollars?

Backlit doubleshot gradient pbt keycap set
Backlit doubleshot gradient pbt keycap set (source: amazon)

The color palette for a unique gradient style creates an appealing look. The keycap's slim character design, light transmission, and lighting effects give users the best typing experience possible.

When it comes to touch feel, these keycaps boast a matte, smooth finish which feels truly nice. Moreover, this set guarantees an exceptional lifetime with superior PBT keycaps and an anti-grease coating.

While you get a lot of benefits, this set is only fit for keyboards with 61, 87, or 104 keys. For those who prefer tactile feedback, Halo Clear switches pair excellently with OEM keycaps to deliver an outstanding typing feel.

Pros

Cons

  • Most affordable on this list
  • Durable
  • Great feel

Only suitable for a few layouts

XY Dip-Dye Doubleshot Keycap Set

Features

  • Model name: XY Dip-Dye Doubleshot Keycap Set
  • Brand: XY
  • Keycap material: Dip-dye, doubleshot PBT
  • Color: Light Grass Green/Orange/Violet/Gray
  • RGB Light: Yes
  • Number of Keys: 108 keys

To round up our list of the best OEM keycaps, we will take a look at The XY Dip-Dye Doubleshot Keycap Set.

Xy dip-dye doubleshot keycap set
xy dip-dye doubleshot keycap set (source: drop)

This set with the gradient style will add elegance to your keyboard. Unlike the gradient set in this list, the gradient color on this set features only one single hue going from light to dark and shifts vertically in four eye-catching colors.

This way, you can easily get into the flow mode each time you sit down at the desk. 

Furthermore, the PBT material offers a long-lasting modern feel, while the shine-through double-shot and dip-dyed technique ensures enhanced RGB shows and survival for years.

Pros

Cons

  • Four color choices
  • Durable PBT

Hard to find

Top Considerations for Choosing the Best OEM Keycaps

Durability

The best OEM keycaps on the market come with unique styles and are fairly affordable. Even so, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Don't be fooled by the glossy outside!

What matters most is the keycaps' durability as reflected by the material and thickness.

The 15 best OEM keycaps above are mostly made of high-quality PBT with a thickness between 1.1 to 1.4 mm, ensuring top-notch durability.

The best oem keycaps’ durability
The best oem keycaps’ durability (source: amazon)

Compatibility

Purchasing a set just to realize that it does not match your keyboard switches and layout will undoubtedly irritate you. Therefore, always double-check your layout first and the compatibility of the set you’re gonna buy.

The 15 best OEM keycaps above support most keyboard layouts but fit Cherry MX and its clones only. Thus, if your keyboard holds some special switches like Topre switches, it’s better to go for another keycap profile.

The best oem keycaps’ compatibility
the best oem keycaps’ compatibility (source: aliexpress)

Comfort & Feel

You may not want to get a keycap set delivering a poor feel. That’s why we prioritize choosing PBT keycaps with gritty, almost sand-like texture, giving a premium smooth feel while remaining durable over time.

Moreover, a keycap made of a thick PBT can aid to deepen the sound and enhance the overall typing experience. Top of it, the best OEM keycaps with different shapes and heights give a good grip on your fingertips while typing.

If you're looking for the best keycaps for best optical switches, there are several excellent options to consider for optimizing your typing experience.

Oem keycaps made of pbt provide a nice feel
oem keycaps made of pbt provide a nice feel (source: pinterest)

Budget

Buying the best OEM keycaps may not be too challenging if budget is not your concern. Despite that, always opt for a set whose cost feels right given the advantages it offers you. For instance, when comparing Gateron Yellow vs Red, the keycap choice can significantly influence your typing experience, especially if you prefer a specific feel or sound.

Otherwise, if you are on a tight budget, we believe our list offers you the best OEM keycaps boasting remarkable features without costing the earth. Most OEM keycap sets cost range from $20 to $200.

Oem keycaps offer different prices to fit any budget
Oem keycaps offer different prices to fit any budget (source: amazon)

Aesthetic Appeal

This may attract you at first, but let’s put it to the last! OEM profile keycaps made of PBT usually come in a wide variety of colors and designs. Hence, narrow down your dream best OEM keycaps and consider the above factors first.

Cute oem keycap set
cute oem keycap set (source: pinkoi)

Conclusion

The world of OEM keycaps offers a wide range of options for keyboard fans seeking high-quality and customizable keycap sets. Whether you're a battle-hardened gamer, a tech enthusiast, or a creative professional, there are always OEM keycaps out there to suit your tastes and preferences.

With our comprehensive list of the best OEM keycaps on the market, you can easily find the perfect set to enhance your typing and gaming experience. Time to start the magic on your keyboard!

FAQs

What are the best OEM keycaps for typing?

The best OEM keycaps for typing are Keychron Retro and Happy Balls. Both of them are made of 1.4mm-thick PBT, providing solid and satisfying sound, minimizing key wobble, and enduring even typing abuse.

What are the best OEM keycaps for gaming?

The best OEM keycaps for gaming are YMDK Carbon and LOOP Pudding V2. These sets feature a textured or slightly rough surface to provide a better grip, reducing finger slippage during intense gaming sessions. 

Where can I buy the best OEM keycaps?

You can directly buy your dream keycaps on the brand's official website. Alternatively, Amazon, Drop, uBuy and more also offer a ton of the best OEM keycaps.

But if you are hunting more fancy unique customized OEM keycap, Hirosart is worth a go.

What are the best OEM keycaps for the price?

The best OEM keycaps for the price are Gliging Backlit Gradient and Tai-Hao Miami. These cost-effective sets are under $50 yet have a striking appearance, amazing longevity, and a wonderful typing experience.

What are the best OEM keycaps for sound?

The best OEM keycaps for sound are YMDK Carbon. This set stands out for its denser and solid feel, which can produce a deeper "thock" sound while typing.

Author

I work as a freelance blogger in Seattle, Washington. I've been freelancing full-time for 5 years. I'm interested in anime, resin art, and mechanical keyboards.

amy-golden