PBT Keycaps-Side Print Key Cap Set
3.7Editor score
Affordable price point
Minimalist side-printed design
Cherry profile ergonomic comfort
In this guide
Upgrading your mechanical keyboard with cheap keycaps is a budget-friendly way to refresh your typing experience. Whether you seek durability or aesthetic appeal, affordable options now offer premium materials like PBT and diverse profiles for every need.
We evaluated ten top-rated affordable keycap sets based on material quality, compatibility, and user feedback. This guide covers everything from pudding styles to minimalist designs, ensuring you find the perfect match for your keyboard layout and personal preferences.
Each pick highlights key features, pros, and cons to help you decide quickly. Remember that prices and availability change frequently, so check the latest details before purchasing. Our goal is to simplify your search for high-quality, cost-effective keyboard customization.
Top 3 Picks for Best Cheap Keycaps
Minimal White KOA Profile Keycaps Set
4.9Editor score
Ergonomic KOA profile design
Durable PBT sublimation material
Compatible with most MX switches
Womier Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set
4.4Editor score
Vintage grey aesthetic style
Strong double-shot PBT construction
Includes keycap puller accessory
Top 10 Best Cheap Keycaps in 2026 Compared
This side-by-side comparison helps you quickly identify which affordable keycap set matches your specific needs. We list key specifications for all ten products to highlight differences in profile, material, and key count.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
Minimal White KOA Profile Keycaps Set
135 Keys PBT Set
KOA Ergonomic Profile
Dye-Sublimation Legends
4.9Editor score
Editor's Choice
Womier Shine Through PBT Keycaps
130 Keys Pudding Set
Double Shot PBT Material
OEM Ergonomic Profile
4.2Editor score
Best Premium
Womier Pudding Keycaps
164 Keys Black Set
Translucent Backlight Design
OEM Profile Comfort
4.3Editor score
XVX PBT Keycaps
136 Keys Gradient Set
Side Printed Minimalist
OEM Profile Layout
4.3Editor score
dagaladoo Double Shot PBT keycaps Set
138 Keys Cherry Profile
Durable Double Shot PBT
Wide Keyboard Compatibility
4.3Editor score
PBT Keycaps Set
137 Keys Cherry Profile
Oil Resistant PBT Material
Custom Accent Options
4.5Editor score
PBT Keycaps-Side Print Key Cap Set
133 Keys Set
Side Printed Design
Cherry Profile Comfort
3.7Editor score
87 Pbt Keycaps
87 Keys Topographic Theme
MXT Technology Protection
Cherry Profile Height
4.2Editor score
GMKWTL XVX Blue Jade Keycaps
142 Keys Blue Jade
Translucent PBT Material
Cherry Profile Short
4.3Editor score
Womier Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set
138 Keys Grey Set
Vintage Style Design
Cherry Profile Ergo
4.4Editor score
1. Minimal White KOA Profile Keycaps Set – Best Ergonomic Upgrade
Minimal White KOA Profile Keycaps Set
Ergonomic KOA Arc Layout
135 Keys Total Count
Dye Sublimation PBT
Compatible with ANSI Layouts
This KOA profile keycap set stands out with its ergonomic design and top-tier PBT material. Rated 4.9 stars, users praise its comfortable arc layout that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
Pros
- Smooth concave arc contact
- Highly durable PBT material
- Never fades dye-sub legends
- Excellent value for money
- Includes free keycap puller
Cons
- No keyboard included
- Limited color options
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The dye-sublimation process ensures the white legends stay crisp forever without fading or rubbing off. The thicker walls provide a textured feel that resists oil and dirt better than standard ABS caps.
While it includes all necessary keys for 60% to full-sized boards, note that this set is strictly caps. You must ensure your keyboard supports MX switches before purchasing this specific layout.
Ideal for typists seeking comfort and durability without breaking the bank. This set offers professional-grade quality at a consumer-friendly price point for any mechanical keyboard enthusiast.
Ergonomic Comfort Design
The KOA profile features a larger contact area and concave arc that naturally fits finger curves for smoother typing.
Long-Lasting Durability
Made from heat and abrasion-resistant PBT, these caps maintain their matte texture and never develop a shiny appearance over time.
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2. PBT Keycaps-Side Print Key Cap Set – Best Minimalist Style
PBT Keycaps-Side Print Key Cap Set
Side Printed Design
133 Keys Total
Double Shot Legends
Cherry Profile Height
This budget-friendly set offers a sleek side-printed design perfect for minimalist setups. At just a few dollars, it provides solid PBT material and durable double-shot legends that resist wear.
Pros
- Very affordable pricing
- Clean minimalist aesthetic
- Double shot durability
- Works with MX switches
Cons
- Side prints need south-facing LEDs
- Lower rating score
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The side prints keep the top surface clean when lights are off, creating a professional look. However, the shine-through feature only works well with south-facing switches for proper illumination.
While the rating is lower than others, the build quality remains good for the price. Just ensure your keyboard layout matches the US or UK standards included in the 133 key set.
Best for casual users who want a cheap upgrade without sacrificing basic durability. It effectively upgrades budget keyboards to a premium feel instantly with its matte finish.
Sleek Aesthetic Appeal
Side printing keeps tops clear for a uniform look while ensuring visibility when your keyboard lights are activated.
Durable Material Choice
Textured PBT resists friction and solvents, ensuring your caps stay clean and fresh even after months of heavy daily use.
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3. Womier Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set – Best Retro Style
Womier Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set
Vintage Grey Style
138 Keys Total
Cherry Profile Height
Includes Keycap Puller
Womier delivers a premium feel with this vintage grey double-shot set. Rated 4.4 stars, it combines classic Cherry profile ergonomics with strong PBT construction that resists oil and scratches.
Pros
- Stylish vintage design
- High quality double shot
- Easy to clean surface
- Great for Gorpcore fans
Cons
- Slightly higher price
- Specific grey color only
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The timeless grey color coordinates well with almost any gaming or office keyboard. Its legends are permanently molded inside, ensuring they never fade even after years of constant typing.
The included puller makes swapping caps effortless. While priced slightly higher, the build quality justifies the cost for those seeking a durable, long-term upgrade for their setup.
Perfect for users who love retro aesthetics and need reliable durability. This set balances style and function effectively for both typing and gaming scenarios alike.
Classic Cherry Ergonomics
Cherry profile is shorter and flatter, offering a natural hand position that reduces fatigue during extended work or gaming sessions.
Robust Construction
Strong PBT material resists scratching and wear, extending the service life significantly compared to cheaper ABS alternatives.
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4. Womier Shine Through PBT Keycaps – Best for RGB Gaming
Womier Shine Through PBT Keycaps
Pudding White Style
130 Keys Total
OEM Profile Height
Translucent Layers
This pudding-style set transforms basic RGB boards into dazzling displays with translucent side layers. Rated 4.2 stars, it uses double-shot PBT for durability and comfort without sacrificing light transmission.
Pros
- Vibrant RGB backlight effects
- Durable double shot PBT
- Comfortable OEM ergonomic
- Easy water cleaning
Cons
- No keyboard included
- White color shows dust
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The OEM profile offers a balanced typing height that suits most users. Its white color brightens the board, but note that light dust may be more visible on the surface compared to darker tones.
Double-shot legends prevent fading and ensure crisp characters. The durable surface resists oil and dirt, making maintenance simple for gamers who type frequently.
Ideal for gaming setups needing flashy RGB lighting. It offers an affordable upgrade to make your keyboard stand out visually while maintaining quality tactile feedback.
Enhanced Backlighting
Translucent layers unleash brilliant backlight effects, upgrading your RGB illumination to a more dazzling and fancy outlook instantly.
Quality Material Build
High-quality PBT is abrasion-resistant and heat-resistant, providing a durable finish that stays non-shiny with continuous use.
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5. Womier Pudding Keycaps – Best Value for Money
Womier Pudding Keycaps
Black Pudding Style
164 Keys Total
OEM Profile Height
Includes Storage Box
This black pudding set delivers massive value with 164 keys including modifiers and extras. Rated 4.3 stars, it uses double-shot PBT to ensure durable walls and tight closed legends without gaps.
Pros
- Massive 164 key count
- Great RGB transmittance
- Eco-friendly storage box
- Textured premium finish
Cons
- Extra keys may be unused
- Box varies randomly
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The translucent sides amplify backlight effects for a stunning glow. It also comes with an eco-friendly storage box to keep your caps organized when swapping layouts or storing spares.
OEM profile provides a comfortable height for long sessions. While you may not use every key, the extra variety ensures compatibility with most mechanical brands like Razer or Corsair.
Perfect for enthusiasts who want extensive options. The combination of durability, aesthetics, and extra keys makes this a top choice for customizing unique setups.
Extended Compatibility
Includes 141 keys plus 24 modifiers to fit most brands including SteelSeries and almost all MX stem mechanical keyboards perfectly.
Premium Finish Feel
Textured finish and thick walls give a premium look while ensuring legends stay closed and gap-free for a polished professional appearance.
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6. XVX PBT Keycaps – Best Gradient Design
XVX PBT Keycaps
Gradient Gray 136 Keys
OEM Profile Design
Side Printed Minimalist
Wide Keyboard Compatibility
XVX offers a unique gradient gray style with side-printed legends for a clean look. Rated 4.3 stars, the high-grade PBT resists wear and ensures clear legends that never fade from double-shot molding.
Pros
- Unique gradient colorway
- Durable textured PBT
- Clean minimalist layout
- Fits most layouts
Cons
- Side print needs south LED
- No puller included
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The wide fonts allow light to shine through effectively improving visibility. This minimalist aesthetic suits keyboards with south-facing LEDs perfectly for a sleek professional vibe.
OEM profile keeps typing fatigue low during long hours. While it lacks a puller, the 136 keys cover everything from 60% to full-sized boards comfortably.
Ideal for users seeking a subtle yet stylish upgrade. The gradient adds a personal touch without overpowering the board, making it perfect for work or gaming.
Sleek Aesthetics
The side-printed design creates an incredibly sleek feel whether RGB is off or on for truly minimalist setups.
Material Resilience
Textured high-grade PBT resists friction and solvents, ensuring better durability and user experience than standard plastic caps.
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7. dagaladoo Double Shot PBT keycaps Set – Best Cherry Profile Choice
dagaladoo Double Shot PBT keycaps Set
138 Keys Total
Cherry Profile Height
Double Shot PBT
Multiple Color Options
This set offers a classic Cherry profile with double-shot durability perfect for daily typing. Rated 4.3 stars, it resists fading and provides a soft tactile feel for comfortable gaming or work.
Pros
- Classic ergonomic shape
- Stable fit and feel
- Withstands high heat
- Variety of color schemes
Cons
- Requires compatible layout
- No puller in box
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The stepped layout fits natural finger curves reducing fatigue significantly. It supports full-size, 60%, and TKL layouts ensuring it fits most mechanical keyboards without issues.
High-quality PBT withstands high temperatures and frequent use. Available in multiple colors it lets you customize your build to match any style preference easily.
Best for those who prefer traditional ergonomics. The reliable quality and stable fit make this a dependable choice for anyone upgrading an existing mechanical keyboard.
Classic Ergonomics
The classic Cherry profile adopts a stepped layout to fit the natural curve of your fingers for reduced typing fatigue.
High Durability
High-quality double-shot PBT material resists wear and high temperatures, making it ideal for enthusiasts seeking long-term reliability.
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8. PBT Keycaps Set – Best Versatile Upgrade
PBT Keycaps Set
137 Keys Total
Cherry Profile Height
Double Shot PBT
Custom Accent Options
Rated 4.5 stars, this set offers versatile customization with a mix of colors. The double-shot PBT legends are permanently molded sharp and impossible to fade even under heavy gaming or typing use.
Pros
- High user rating
- Oil resistant material
- Includes ISO Enter
- Sharp clean legends
Cons
- Specific color accent mix
- No extra tools
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Cherry profile provides a low curved shape for a natural hand position. It fits ANSI layouts but includes select ISO keys making it adaptable for international custom builds.
The oil-resistant material keeps caps clean longer than ABS. It also comes with a bonus puller for quick safe swaps so you can upgrade instantly.
Perfect for enthusiasts wanting style and flexibility. Whether you prefer bold or minimalist aesthetics this set helps you express your personality on any keyboard.
Premium Material Feel
Crafted from premium double-shot PBT plastic these caps are oil resistant and built to last without fading over time.
Universal Layout Support
Includes ANSI support plus ISO Enter and modifiers to fit a wide range of mechanical keyboard configurations seamlessly.
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9. 87 Pbt Keycaps – Best Compact Design
87 Pbt Keycaps
87 Keys TKL Size
Topographic Theme
MXD Protection Tech
Cherry Profile Height
This unique set features topographic contour lines with advanced MXD technology for protection. Rated 4.2 stars, it offers anti-sink and anti-scratch properties that keep your keys looking fresh and new.
Pros
- Unique contour line art
- Anti-sink technology
- Fits TKL boards well
- Clear backlight transmittance
Cons
- Only TKL layouts
- Side print requires LED
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The dual-layer injection molding ensures clear characters that don't fade. Side prints avoid direct light upward keeping the look smooth while maximizing RGB transmittance when lit.
Designed for backlit keyboards it offers great ergonomics with a comfortable Cherry profile. Note that it includes only 87 keys so confirm it matches your TKL setup before buying.
Ideal for work or gaming on compact boards. The artistic design adds personality without cluttering your workspace, making it a stylish choice for enthusiasts.
High Protection Quality
MXD technology provides anti-sink anti-scratch and anti-fade features ensuring your keycaps maintain excellent quality over time.
Cherry Ergonomics
Ergonomically designed Cherry height ensures no fatigue for long time use whether you are working or gaming intensely.
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10. GMKWTL XVX Blue Jade Keycaps – Best Aesthetic Choice
GMKWTL XVX Blue Jade Keycaps
142 Keys Blue Jade
Translucent Outer Layer
Cherry Profile Short
Fits All Layouts
This blue jade keycap set offers a unique translucent texture like polished stone. Rated 4.3 stars, it uses doubleshot legends to ensure colors stay vibrant while providing a durable and reliable typing surface.
Pros
- Unique jade-like texture
- Fits any keyboard color
- Durable PBT material
- Comfortable typing feel
Cons
- Light leakage possible
- Not a full keyboard
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The translucent outer layer matches almost any keyboard color adding elegance. Cherry profile is shorter and flatter offering a comfortable experience for long daily sessions without strain.
While it has light leakage due to production requirements it still looks great. The set includes enough keys for full-size or TKL boards so you can customize freely.
Perfect for users seeking unique aesthetics. The elegant jade-like finish makes your keyboard stand out while maintaining the practical benefits of high-quality PBT construction.
Unique Visual Appeal
The custom keycap design features a translucent outer layer as beautiful as jade adding a unique touch to any setup.
Durable Construction
Doubleshot PBT legends ensure they won't fade over time while resisting shine for a fresh look after long use.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Cheap Keycaps
Selecting affordable keycaps requires attention to material, profile, and compatibility to ensure a lasting upgrade.
Material Quality
Cheap keycaps often use ABS plastic which shines over time. Look for PBT options that resist oil and wear, ensuring a textured finish that stays fresh even with heavy daily use.
Keycap Profile
Profile affects typing comfort and sound. Cherry is low and flat while OEM is slightly higher. Choose based on your hand size and whether you prefer a quiet or clicky typing experience.
Compatibility
Ensure the keycap stem fits your switches. Most cheap sets use MX stems compatible with Cherry, Gateron, and Kailh switches. Check layout sizes like Enter or Shift if you use non-standard boards.
Print Method
Double-shot and dye-sublimation legends are most durable. They mold colors into the plastic so they never fade or rub off compared to painted or printed surfaces that wear down quickly.
Keyboard Layout
Match the key count to your board. If you have a 60% or 65% keyboard, verify the set includes compact Enter or arrow keys to avoid gaps or missing keys in your layout.
Backlighting Needs
For RGB setups, consider pudding or shine-through designs. These allow light to pass through translucent sides enhancing visual effects while keeping text visible even in dark rooms.
Aesthetic Style
Choose designs that match your setup. Minimalist side prints offer clean looks while colorful sets add personality. Ensure colors coordinate with your desk and monitor theme for a cohesive look.
Warranty and Service
Check return policies and warranties. Reputable sellers offer 12 to 18-month coverage and include tools like pullers, ensuring you can swap caps easily if issues arise after delivery.
How to Use and Care for Your Cheap Keycaps
Before installation, remove the old keycaps carefully using a puller tool to avoid bending stems. Store your old caps safely if you plan to swap back later.
Install new keycaps by aligning the stem with the switch and pressing gently until it clicks. Test all keys to ensure stability before typing long sessions.
Clean your keycaps regularly with water and mild soap. Let them dry completely before reattaching to prevent moisture damage to the switch mechanisms underneath.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cheap keycaps durable enough for daily use?
Yes if they are made from PBT material. Many affordable sets use double-shot legends and durable plastic that resists oil and wear just as well as pricier options for everyday typing.
Do I need to match the keycap profile to my keyboard?
You do not need an exact match but matching profiles ensure uniform height. Cherry and OEM are standard options that fit most switches comfortably without affecting function.
What is the difference between double-shot and dye-sublimation?
Double-shot uses two layers of plastic so legends never fade. Dye-sub uses heat to infuse ink into PBT for vibrant designs. Both are durable choices for long-lasting legends.
Will my keycaps fit if I have a TKL keyboard?
Most cheap sets support TKL layouts but check the key count. Ensure the set includes specific modifier keys like Backspace and Enter to avoid missing keys on your board.
Can I mix different keycap sets on one keyboard?
Yes but ensure the stems fit your switches and heights align reasonably. Mixing is fun for accents but check thickness to avoid uneven spacing that hinders typing speed.
How do I clean PBT keycaps effectively?
Remove the caps and soak them in warm soapy water. Scrub gently with a cloth then rinse and dry thoroughly. Avoid harsh chemicals that might damage the texture or legends.
Do cheap keycaps affect keyboard sound?
Yes thicker PBT caps produce deeper thockier sounds than thin ABS. While you may hear less click, the reduced noise is often preferred for quiet office environments.
Why choose side-printed keycaps over top-printed ones?
Side-printed caps look minimal and clean when lights are off. They suit south-facing LEDs better for shine-through effects providing a professional aesthetic for work setups.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Cheap Keycaps
Our top picks like the KOA Profile and Womier Double Shot sets offer excellent value for budget upgrades. They combine durable materials with ergonomic designs to transform your typing experience.
Prioritize PBT material and compatible profiles to ensure long-term satisfaction. Whether you want RGB flair or minimalist looks, these affordable options deliver quality without the price tag.
Prices fluctuate so check current listings before purchasing. With the right set, you can instantly refresh your mechanical keyboard and enjoy better durability for less.