How to Change Your Keycaps: A Step-by-Step Guide
Changing keycaps is straightforward when the new set fits your keyboard and you use the correct puller. Photograph the layout, disconnect the board, remove ordinary keys straight upward, treat stabilised keys separately and test every key before packing the old set away.
What Is the Best Keycap Profile for Typing and Gaming?
There is no universally fastest keycap profile. The useful choice is the one that keeps movement predictable, feels comfortable on your complete keyboard and suits the way you type or play.
How to Choose the Right Keyboard Size for Work, Gaming, and Portability"
Looking for the perfect keyboard? Learn about different keyboard sizes, from full-size to compact 40%, and find the best fit for work, gaming, or portability.
"Must-Have Mechanical Keyboard Accessories: From Keycaps to Wrist Rests"
"Upgrade your typing and gaming experience with the best mechanical keyboard accessories! From custom keycaps and ergonomic wrist rests to high-quality stabilizers and stylish desk mats, discover the top must-have accessories to enhance comfort, aesthetics, and performance. Find out where to buy the best gear and optimize your setup today!"
Australian Keyboard Layout: How It Differs from ANSI and ISO
The ISO keyboard layout is widely used in Europe and Australia, yet finding ISO-compatible keyboards and keycaps remains a challenge. This article explores why ANSI dominates the market, the limited availability of ISO options, and how users adapt. Discover the key obstacles and potential solutions for ISO enthusiasts.
The Best Hot-Swappable Keyboards of 2025
Looking for the best hot-swappable keyboards in 2025? This guide highlights the top models for gaming, typing, and customization. Whether you need a full-size, compact, or wireless option, we break down the best choices based on performance, build quality, and switch compatibility.
Play 1800 Mechanical Keyboard Review | More than just Play
Overview Play 1800 Mechanical Keyboard is a versatile keyboard for gamers and office use, featuring aesthetic customizable RGB lighting and versatile wired/wireless mode, compatible with PC and mobile devices, making the keyboard highly versatile for gaming and office use. In this article, we will cover all you need to know before getting the keyboard. What’s Tri-mode connectivity? With traditional keyboards, it’s often connected with Cable or Bluetooth exclusively. This model offers three different modes to connect. It’s hard to connect with your crush, but not for this model. Let’s break down what each of the modes does: Wired Mode: Highest performance, Plug & Play Simple Plug-and-Play, the keyboard is connected via USB to Type C cable. This mode offers the lowest latency, suitable for competitive gaming. Bluetooth: Highest versatility, Compatible with most device wirelessly The connection is established wirelessly, allowing for any device with Bluetooth support including Laptop, PC, Android, IOS and Mac. Play 1800 model allows for multiple devices to be connected at once via Bluetooth (more detail in instruction manual), with hotkey to swap between devices for use. 2.4Ghz Mode: Lowest latency wireless mode, requires a dongle This mode requires a dongle (a small USB wireless receiver is provided) to establish a connection to the device wirelessly. This mode features best wireless performance with minimum latency. This mode is perfect for gamers looking for wireless setup, with latency indistinguishable from wired mode. For more details, check here for the comparison between 2.4ghz and Bluetooth in-depth. (https://www.corsair.com/us/en/explorer/gamer/headsets/24ghz-vs-bluetooth-which-is-better ) TIP: The keyboard can be switched to any of the wireless modes while it’s being connected with a cable. This allows the keyboard to be connected automatically via wireless connection once the cable is detached. Wait… A display on the keyboard? You heard that right, Play 1800 features a tiny display that shows information about the system such as battery life, time and date, cap lock etc. which makes user experience more friendly. And for those looking for styles, there’s also Thekapco signature animation for the display. What a time to be alive where the display on your keyboard has higher resolution than a Nokia 3310. What can you do with the RGB Customization? Whether you are a gamer or not, you can’t deny RBG on a keyboard is cool. And this model did not disappoint with the number of customizations straight out of the box. Adjustable color, brightness, and patterns make it feel more alive. My personal favorite has to be the wave pattern, which makes your keyboard a nice visual candy. It also comes with VIA (https://www.caniusevia.com/docs/specification) support, for those keyboard enthusiasts looking to push the customization to its limit, this keyboard is perfect for you. It’s one of those “party” tricks if you’re cool enough to bring a keyboard to one. Of course, you can always turn off the lighting, so your co-workers do not fidget with your keyboard. How’s the build of the keyboard? Play 1800 features a 90% key design, totaling 96 keys. All keycaps from Thekapco are compatible with the keyboard. It’s packed with Gateron G Pro 2.0 Yellow Linear switches (https://www.theremingoat.com/blog/gateron-g-pro-3-yellow-switch-review ). The keys are very quiet, smooth and consistent, making it ideal for office work, and midnight gaming, if noise is a concern to you. Each of the switches is fully swappable too to suit your preferences and needs. The keyboard is built with high-quality polymer, easy to clean and resistant to fingerprint smudges. Overall, the model feels premium, with the only minor caveat being a slight flex in the middle when keys are pressed forcefully. Who should get it? Play 1800 offers amazing versatility, it is perfect for both gamers and office workers. With its customizable RGB lighting, quiet linear switches, and multiple modes of connectivity, it makes it a product that shines with style whilst not compensating for its functionality. TL; DR The Play 1800 is a versatile keyboard with features for both gamers and office users. It offers: Tri-mode connectivity: Wired, Bluetooth, and low-latency 2.4Ghz wireless. Customizable RGB lighting: Great personalized tool for your setup with VIA support. Quiet linear switches: Ideal for both work and play without disruption. Hot-swappable switches: Easily customizable switches to your own need. 96-key layout: Saves desk space without compensating functionality. Built-in display: Shows battery life, time, and miscellaneous info. Caveats: Slight flex in the middle of keyboard with forceful presses. Overall, Play 1800 Mechanical Keyboard offers tons of features for any workers who value versatility and style.
Keycap Maintenance and Repair: How To Make Your Keycaps Last Forever
Many apparent keycap problems can be solved by cleaning, reseating or correcting the wrong row or size. Cracked stems, permanent warping, damaged coatings and worn surface texture usually need replacement rather than improvised glue, heat or solvents.
An Article About Ultra-rare Keycap Profiles
Are you tired of using generic keycap profiles? Let us introduce to you some uncommon keycap profiles that you might like. DCX Source: Drop The second keycap profile that Drop has manufactured in-house. The first was MT3, a popular profile designed by Matt3o. The DCX profile is essentially Cherry profile, with minor differences. Like the Cherry profile, DCX is sculpted and cylindrical shaped. DCX keycaps are slightly textured and provide silky feeling, which allows for easy finger movement while typing. DCX keycaps also feel similar to GMK keycaps, but less grippy. DCS Source: spkeyboards The DCS profile is Signature Plastics' version of Cherry profile. It is cylindrical and sculpted just like Cherry profile, but shorter. What makes DCS keycaps stand out is that they have rounded corners and coarse surface which is rarely found on keycaps. ZDA Source: ymdkey The ZDA profile is a variation of XDA profile. They are both uniform, spherical shaped and have square surface shape. The primary difference is that ZDA profile keycaps are taller. Additionally, ZDA keycaps help produce a "thocky" sound. You can get high quality ZDA keycaps from YMDK. MA Source: idobao The MA profile is a unique keycap profile. This profile is tall, sitting at 12.38mm. It is a spherical shaped uniform profile. Paired with the large surface area of these keycaps. they give keyboards a 3d look as the tall spherical keycaps pop out from the keyboard. HSA Source: novelkeys HSA stands for half SA. As the name implies, its a shorter version of the high profile, spherical, sculpted SA profile. One of the main complaints about the SA profile is that it is so tall that it becomes uncomfortable to type on. JTK leaped at this opportunity and introduced the HSA profile so that users can type on their favorite profile, at a much lower and comfortable height. These HSA keycaps feature a glossy finish on all 5 surfaces - the top and the sides of the keycaps. The glossy surface is not only for aesthetic purposes, but also to prevent the keycaps from developing a shine over time. As a result, these keycaps are more durable and will retain a uniform texture throughout use. The visuals of these keycaps are more appealing and the typing experience is one of a kind due to the glossy finish which is not something we often see. Key-takeaway: Rare keycap profiles might be hard to get used to, but are worth trying. DM us @thekapco if you have any inquiries.
Resin, Metal, Wood & Silicone Keycaps: Alternative Materials Guide
Alternative-material keycaps can turn one key into a sculpture, texture marker or metal accent. The material name is only the beginning: fit, weight, clearance, finish and care decide whether it belongs on your daily keyboard.
Can I Mix & Match Different Keycap Set?
Wanting to try something new for your keyboard? Today we will be exploring the possibility of mixing keycap sets and personalize your keyboard. Uniform vs sculpted The type of your keycap profile should be taken into consideration. There are two types of keycap profiles - uniform and sculpted. Uniform profile keycaps like XDA have the same height, shape and angle. Sculpted profile keycaps like Cherry and ASA have different height, shape and angle for each row of keys. Why does this matter? This is because you need to make sure each row of keys have the same height, shape and angle so that your keyboard will not look or feel weird when typing. The top row of your keyboard is called R4 and the bottom row is R1. A full sized keyboard has 6 rows, so from top to bottom it goes R4-R4-R3-R2-R1-R1. So this means that mixing keycaps of the same uniform profile is fine. However, mixing keycaps of the same sculpted profile can be tricky. You cannot put these keycaps on the rows that they are not designed for or else it would feel awkward and uncomfortable when typing. For example, R4 sculpted keycaps cannot go on R1 as the height, shape and angle is different. Keycap profiles Another aspect to look out for is the keycap profiles of your keycap sets. Different keycap profiles have different heights, shapes and angles. For instance, Cherry profile's height is 9.4mm whereas OEM profile's height is 11.9mm. So you cannot mix keycaps of different profiles even if they are the same type, in this case, sculpted. However, if you insist on mixing two or multiple keycap sets of different keycap profiles, then the least you can do is make sure they are the same type, either sculpted or uniform. On top of that, try to pick keycaps that are similar in height, shape and angle so that your keyboard does not appear weird visually. Switches and keycaps compatibility Next, you need to make sure that the switches on your keyboard are compatible with your keycap sets. First, you need to identify the type of your switches. Carefully observe the stem of your switches. If the stem is a cross-stem and looks like a "+", then you have Cherry MX/ MX style switches. If that is not what you see, then you may have exclusive switches. Nowadays, most keycap sets are produced to be MX compatible, so if you own Cherry MX/ MX style switches, then your keycaps will most likely be compatible. An exception is low profile switches. If your switches are really short, then they are not compatible with regular keycaps. What you need to do is get low profile keycaps for your low profile switches. As for exclusive switches like the Logitech Romer-G and Razer optical switches, your keycaps will not fit on them unless you get them from vendors that specifically state that the keycaps will be compatible with your exclusive switches. Keyboard layout Source: maxkeyboard Check your keyboard layout. Key sizes of a standard layout keyboard are displayed above. If your keyboard has standard layout, then your keycap sets will fit with no issues. However, things get slightly complicated if you own a non-standard layout keyboard. Non-standard layouts have different key sizes which affect the compatibility of your keycaps. Smaller keyboard layouts like the 60% tend to have non-standard layout because of smaller key sizes to reduce keyboard size. That is not always the case though, as keyboards like the Anne Pro 2 remain to be standard layout. So it is advised to always check your keyboard layout for confirmation. A common misconception is that TKL and 100% keyboards always have standard layout. That is simply wrong because keyboards like the NK87 Entry Edition exist . Now you might be asking why does my keyboard layout matter? This is because non-standard layout keyboards have different key sizes which your keycap sets might not include. Keycaps are measured in the unit of "u". A standard alphanumeric keycap like "W" is 1u, whereas a 2u keycap is twice in size, so on and so forth. Additionally, you will need to purchase the extension kit of your keycap sets to cover less common layouts like the 40%. Another thing to look out for is make sure your keycap sets include enough keys for your keyboard if you own a full sized keyboard. This is because some keycap sets are only for smaller keyboard layouts like the TKL and 65%. In this case, you would need to pay more for more keycaps to accommodate your keyboard. All in all, make sure your keycap sets include the right amount and sizes of keycaps for your keyboard. Demonstration Of Mix & Match Keycap Profile Next up, we will be showing some combinations of keycap sets with different keycap profiles so that you do not have to try them yourself. Cherry Profile + XDA Profile Pink Keycaps are Cherry profile, Purple Keycaps are XDA profile XDA Profile + ASA Profile Purple Keycaps are ASA profile, Pink Keycaps are XDA profile Cherry Profile (PBT) + OEM Profile (ABS) Purple Keycaps are OEM profile, Pink Keycaps are Cherry profile Where to get foolproof keycap sets that are designed to be mixed and matched? The KapCo is proud to inform you that the KapCo Colorway collection is produced for this purpose! The KapCo has launched this collection in two profiles - Cherry and XDA. Keycap sets in this collection are dye-sublimation printed PBT keycaps. So these keycaps are highly durable and resistant to wear, discoloration & shine. On top of that, the legends on these keycaps are longer-lasting thanks to the dye-sub printing method so they will last you many long typing sessions. As for compatibility, The KapCo provides wide keycap compatibility to make sure the keycaps go on everyone's keyboards. The Cherry and XDA profile keycap sets contain 126 and 120 keys respectively. These sets include additional keys that have different keycap sizes for different keyboard layouts. So this means that the keycaps are compatible with all sizes of standard ANSI layout mechanical keyboards with Cherry MX/ MX style switches. DM @thekapco if you require more assistance on compatibility. The KapCo is also having a $10 discount on all the keycap sets in the XDA profile lineup. So bring your keyboard back to life now by mixing and matching the keycap sets that you like! Key-takeaway: Mix and match keycap sets of the same profile and make sure they go on their designated rows if sculpted. Cherry MX/ MX style switches will most likely be compatible with your keycap sets. Low profile switches require low profile keycaps. Some exclusive switches will be compatible with regular keycap sets but some will not. Non-standard keyboard layouts will have a harder time finding keycap sets that are compatible compared to standard layout. DM @thekapco if you have any inquiries.
What's So Good About GMK Keycaps?
Ever wondered why keyboard enthusiasts rave about GMK keycaps? Today, we'll uncover the allure behind these highly sought-after keycaps. What are GMK keycaps? GMK, short for Günter, Meinhardt, and Kredler, pays homage to the original founders of the company. They're well-known for their double-shot ABS keycaps, featuring the renowned Cherry profile, are revered for their vibrant and precise color schemes. With a plethora of styles and designs to choose from, GMK keycaps cater to a wide range of preferences. Why are GMK keycaps so expensive? GMK Deepwell While GMK keycaps may come with a higher price tag, several factors justify their premium. High Quality GMK keycaps are crafted to the highest standards, using premium thick ABS material that surpasses regular ABS in texture and overall quality. Their increased thickness minimizes flaws and warping, ensuring durability and longevity. Limited Production Released in limited production runs and group buys, GMK keycaps exude exclusivity, driving up demand and prices. Their availability for a short period further adds to their desirability. Cherry Profile License GMK holds the license from Cherry to manufacture genuine Cherry-profile keycaps, enhancing their authenticity and appeal. Aftermarket Flipping Missed out on the initial release? Fear not. Aftermarket sellers offer GMK keycaps for resale, albeit at inflated prices, making them a coveted commodity. Weighing the Pros and Cons GMK keycaps boast exceptional build quality, vibrant colorways, and unique designs. However, their premium price, susceptibility to shine over time, and limited compatibility with certain switches warrant consideration. Are GMK Keycaps Worth It? Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference. If you're passionate about upgrading your keyboard setup and appreciate fine craftsmanship, GMK keycaps are a worthy investment. Ensuring Compatibility GMK keycaps are compatible with MX-style switches featuring Cherry stems but may not work with exclusive switches like Logitech Romer G and Razer. Where to Purchase GMK Keycaps Explore aftermarket platforms like r/mechmarket, Amazon, MechanicalKeyboards.co, Kono Store, Novelkeys, and Drop for GMK keycaps. Each offers unique promotions and opportunities to acquire these coveted keycaps. GMK vs KapCo Keycaps While GMK keycaps boast double-shot ABS material and Cherry profile, KapCo keycaps offer dye-sublimation PBT material with a wider array of profiles. Additionally, KapCo keycaps are readily available and more budget-friendly. Key Takeaways GMK keycaps are renowned for their quality, vibrant colors, and limited availability. Consider factors like price, material, and compatibility when deciding on GMK keycaps. Explore aftermarket platforms and specialized stores for purchasing GMK keycaps. Still have questions? DM @thekapco on Instagram for assistance.
Will These Keycaps Fit My Keyboard?
Keyboard size alone cannot confirm keycap compatibility. Use these five checks to compare the stem, layout, key sizes, bottom row and actual kit before buying.
Keycap Profile Comparison: Cherry, OEM, XDA, ASA and MOA
Compare five familiar keycap profiles side by side. This guide focuses on visible shape and practical trade-offs rather than declaring one profile best.
Custom Mechanical Keyboard: Quick-start Building Guide
Custom mechanical keyboards are typically the domain of keyboard enthusiasts and experts. However, we're here to change that narrative. Today, we're making it accessible for newcomers like you to build your own keyboard. Let us be your guide through everything you need to know about custom mechanical keyboards. Why Customize Your Mechanical Keyboard? One major advantage of custom keyboards is their customizability. Users can select and modify parts according to their preferences. If someone buys a keyboard only to change or modify every part, they might as well build a custom mechanical keyboard. Moreover, custom keyboards are unique, making each one-of-a-kind. This uniqueness allows users to express themselves and embrace their personality, unlike generic mass-produced keyboards. The Anatomy of a Mechanical Keyboard A mechanical keyboard consists of many parts. Below is a list of the commonly seen parts in a mechanical keyboard. Case CNC Aluminum keyboard casing by VMT The case is the most crucial part of a keyboard. It is the main structure of the keyboard that determines the size and layout. PCB (Printed Circuit Board) PCB Board by kineticlabs The Printed Circuit Board (PCB) is the “brain” of your keyboard. There are hot swap and soldered PCBs. A hot swap PCB allows you to “plug-and-play” switches into place, whereas a soldered PCB requires soldering to install switches into the PCB. Plate The plate sits on top of the PCB, protecting it and holding the keys in place. Plates come in different materials like brass and aluminum and greatly affect typing acoustics. Stabilizers Mechanical keyboard's stabilizers Stabilizers are underneath bigger and wider keys like shift and enter. They help distribute the force of your finger evenly when pressing the buttons. The build quality of the stabilizers also greatly affects typing sounds. Switches Outemu SIlent Lime There are a few types of switches to choose from: linear, clicky, tactile, and silent. Some switches, like the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro, come pre-lubed, so you can opt for those if you do not want to lube your switches yourself. Keycaps Samurai 3.0 Keycaps by The KapCo When buying keycaps, there are many things to consider. The first thing is the keycap profile. SA profile keycaps are the tallest, so those are great if you want a tall keyboard. Next is the transparency of your keycaps. If you want RGB to shine through your keycaps, then you can explore the ASA keycaps profile. Compatibility Check PCB mount, or 5-pin switches, have two additional plastic nubs that help stabilize the switch inside holes of a compatible PCB. For these switches to fit, the PCB itself must have these additional holes. If you want to use 5-pin switches on a Plate mount PCB (which lacks the extra holes), you can simply trim the plastic nubs (not the metal connecting pins) using metal clippers (nail clippers can also work). It's important to note that this modification is irreversible and will make the switches no longer PCB mountable, but they will still be fully functional for Plate mount. Tools You Need Lubricants Brushes Precision screwdriver kit Tweezer kit Building Your Keyboard 1. Test the PCB Open the VIA app and plug the PCB into the computer. Use tweezers to gently tap into the switch contact pad. If a key works, it should light up in VIA. Repeat this step for each key on the PCB to ensure everything works well. 2. Lube and Install Stabilizers Apply lube to the sides of your stabilizers using a brush. Smaller brushes do a wonderful job as they can fit more easily into the sides. Once done, install the stabilizers onto the PCB/plate depending on the type of your stabilizer. If you have screw-in stabilizers, make sure you use washers during installation. 3. Install Switches Click your switches into the PCB through the plate if you are using a hot swap PCB. Solder your switch into the PCB if you are using a soldered PCB. 4. Finalizing Take apart your keyboard case and put in the PCB assembly. Put the case back together, and you are good to go. Assessing Your Build Does it rattle? Check if your keys rattle. If they do, adding lube to your stabilizers might do the trick. If not, try straighten your stabilizer! Are all the keys registering? If one of your keys is not working, it might be a bent pin on the switch causing the problem. Remove the switch and straighten the bent pin with tweezers. The key should work this time. Where to Get a Custom Keyboard? You can find a variety of keyboard parts on The KapCo. We offer keyboard kits, keycaps, switches, and much more. Key Takeaway Components include case, PCB, plate, switches, keycaps, and stabilizers. Building requires lubricants, brushes, precision screwdrivers, and tweezers. Remember to assess your keyboard after building. For more questions, DM @thekapco on Instagram.
Top 5 Keycaps in the KapCo Artist Collection 2024
These are the top 5 best selling keycaps in the KapCo Artist Collection. Please note that this list is in no particular order. Let us walk you through the details of these keycap sets and hopefully assist you in deciding which one to get. Nekomancer Set (ft. Ilustrata) Nekomancer Keycap Set Keycap Profile: ASA profile Material: Duolayer PCPBT keycaps Number of keys: 121 keys This keycap set’s main theme revolves around an intelligent cat involved in wizardry. Unlike your ordinary domestic cat, this cat hunts down mice for breakfast. These keycaps will replace your regular cute cat themed keycaps and you will not regret it. The cyan legends glow in the dark and give a refreshed look to keyboards. Overall, a solid keycap set with much lore. Night in the Neko City Set (ft. Elora) Night in the Neko City Keycap Keycap Profile: ASA profile Material: Duolayer PCPBT keycaps Number of keys: 121 keys The keycaps are perfectly described by the name. A night themed keycap set with the addition of cats. The color choices on the keycaps accurately resemble the night time/dusk ambient. The white legends with a pink-ish glow provide a good contrast to the keycaps colors, making the colors really pop out. The graphics of tall buildings on the space bar row gives a nice touch to the keyboard and brings out the city theme. Overall, a simple yet aesthetic keycap set. Web Ramen Set (ft. Ilustrata) Web Ramen Keycap Set Keycap Profile: Cherry profile Material: PBT keycaps Number of keys: 126 keys Browsing the web while slurping ramen. Doesn’t that sound like a luxury? Too good to be true? Well, we made it happen with our keycaps. Introducing the Web Ramen keycaps, a retro Japanese-themed keycap set. The light blue gray keycaps are not something that is commonly found today. The color is not eye-catching like other modern keycap sets but is interesting enough to not go unnoticed. The color selection of the keycaps really brings us back in time. The pixel-ish font matches with the retro web theme very well too. The graphics, especially the waves are very neatly done as well. Enthusiasts will definitely enjoy this keycap set as the colors are aesthetically pleasing and not too flashy. Baphomagic Girl Set (ft. Ilustrata) Baphomagic Girl Keycap Set Keycap Profile: ASA profile Material: Duolayer PCPBT keycaps Number of keys: 121 keys This set’s inspiration came from Mahou Shoujo, or better known as magical girl, a Japanese fantasy media series. The artist showed great enthusiasm and paid full attention to every little detail of the character in the process of illustrating the Baphomagic Girl. The majority of the keycaps are black, which makes it easy to pair with any keyboard. When paired with a black keyboard case, it makes for a sleek keyboard look. This is truly a piece of art. Japanese Juice Set (ft. Ilustrata) Japanese Juice Set Keycap Profile: ASA profile Material: Duolayer PCPBT keycaps Number of keys: 121 keys A somewhat cheerful death themed keycap set. The graphic is a Japanese packet drink with a winking skull on it, hence the name Japanese Juice. The purple legends on the keycaps blend in well because it matches with the primary color of the Japanese drink. There are elements of smiley face and skull scattered on the keycaps which introduces a new perspective on death. Glitter on the black keycaps is just icing on the cake, giving the visual of a constellation of stars on a dark night. Overall, a simple but not too dull keycap set.