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