Cherry Profile vs OEM Profile Keycaps
As a professional in the mechanical keyboard industry, you may have heard about Cherry profile and OEM profile keycaps. These two keycap profiles are among the most popular in the market today, and it's essential to understand them better to make an informed decision when choosing the right keycaps for your keyboard.
Cherry Profile Keycaps
Cherry profile keycaps were first introduced by the German company Cherry in the 1980s. These keycaps have a distinctive sculpted shape that mimics the natural curvature of your fingertips. Cherry keycaps have a slightly concave surface on the top, and they curve towards the bottom, providing a comfortable and ergonomic typing experience.
Cherry profile keycaps are among the most popular keycaps used in the mechanical keyboard community. They are compatible with Cherry MX switches and are available in different materials, including ABS and PBT plastics.
ABS plastic is cheaper and has a smooth texture, but it's less durable and more prone to developing a shiny surface over time. PBT plastic is more expensive and has a textured surface that provides a better grip and is more durable than ABS plastic.
The Cherry profile keycaps are available in a wide range of colors and designs, making them a popular choice for enthusiasts who want to customize their keyboards. They are also compatible with other switches that have a similar stem design, such as Kailh, Gateron, and Zealio switches.
OEM Profile Keycaps
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, and OEM profile keycaps are the standard keycaps that come with most pre-built keyboards. These keycaps have a cylindrical shape with a flat top, and they are uniform in height, providing a consistent typing experience across all keys.
OEM profile keycaps, which are typically made of ABS plastic, come in a restricted selection of colors and designs. However, they tend to be more cost-effective than OEM profile keycaps made of PBT material. Nevertheless, OEM profile keycaps made of PBT material are also obtainable and offer a broader range of color and design options.
Which Profile Is Right for You?
Choosing the right keycap profile depends on your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a more ergonomic and comfortable typing experience, then Cherry profile keycaps are an excellent choice for you. They are also a good option if you want to customize your keyboard with different colors and designs.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a simple and functional keyboard that won't break the bank, then OEM profile ABS keycaps are a good option. They are also a good choice if you prefer a uniform and consistent typing experience across all keys.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between Cherry profile and OEM profile keycaps is essential in choosing the right keycaps for your keyboard. Cherry profile keycaps offer a more ergonomic and comfortable typing experience, while OEM profile keycaps provide a uniform and consistent typing experience at an affordable price.
Whether you prefer Cherry profile or OEM profile keycaps, it's important to choose high-quality keycaps made of durable materials like PBT plastic to ensure that they last a long time and provide a satisfying typing experience. So, take your time, and choose the keycaps that suit your needs and preferences the most.