Short Answer:
ABS keycaps are a type of keyboard keycaps that are made from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene. They are known for their smooth texture and glossy finish, often used in mass-produced keyboards.
Long Answer: This Article ⇓
Contents
What are ABS keycaps made of?
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) keycaps are made from a lightweight, thermoplastic polymer.
This material is known for its flexibility, strength, and smooth texture.
Manufacturing Process
They are typically made with injection molded, a process that allows for mass production at a lower cost.
This method contributes to their widespread availability and affordability.
Surface Feel and Appearance
They have a shiny, smooth finish that can develop a greasy feel over time due to oil absorption.
This shine is often seen as a drawback as it can diminish the aesthetic appeal of the keycaps.
Sound Profile
These caps also produce a lighter, higher-pitched sound when typing compared to PBT keycaps.
This sound quality is often described as a ‘clack’ rather than a ‘thock’.
Durability and Wear
While ABS keycaps are durable, they are more prone to wear, shine, and fading over time.
The legends on these keycaps can fade faster than those on PBT keycaps.
Color and Design Options
ABS keycaps offer a wide range of colors and designs, including options for backlighting.
They are often preferred for their vibrant colors and clear legends in backlit keyboards.
Environmental Impact
The consumer society led to the disposal of 4.9 billion metric tons of polymeric waste in the environment from 1950 to 2015 according to Geyer et al [study].
ABS is a non-biodegradable plastic, which raises concerns about its environmental impact.
However, its durability means it doesn’t need frequent replacement, which can mitigate some environmental concerns.
Price Point
One of the biggest advantages of ABS keycaps is their affordability.
They are a popular choice for those who want a cost-effective way to customize their keyboards.
Why do people like ABS keycaps?
Have you ever seen GMK keycaps that look bad? no you haven’t, nor you will.
Affordability
This caps are more budget-friendly, making them accessible for both enthusiasts and casual users.
Their affordability allows for frequent customization without significant financial investment.
Aesthetic and Design Flexibility
ABS keycaps offer a wide range of colors and designs, appealing to those who value keyboard aesthetics.
Their glossy finish enhances the visual appeal, making them a popular choice for custom setups.
Typing Experience and Compatibility
The smooth texture of ABS keycaps provides a comfortable typing experience.
They are ideal for backlit keyboards, allowing for excellent legend visibility, which is especially valued in gaming and professional environments.
Frequently Asked Questions about ABS Keycaps
Why do ABS keycaps get shiny or greasy?
This is due to the natural oils and friction from fingers during regular use. This material, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, is softer and more prone to wear compared to other plastics like PBT.
Over time, the surface of the caps polishes under the constant contact with fingertips, leading to a glossy appearance. This shine is often seen as a sign of wear, indicating the keycaps have been heavily used. While this doesn’t affect the functionality, it does change the aesthetic and tactile feel of the keycaps.
Why are GMK made of ABS?
GMK keycaps are made of ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) primarily for its ability to produce vibrant colors and sharp legends. ABS plastic allows for a wider range of color customization, which is crucial for the diverse and unique designs GMK is known for.
Additionally, ABS is preferred for its easier molding process, making it suitable for producing high-quality, intricate designs that GMK keycaps often feature. Despite the tendency of ABS to shine over time, its versatility in design and color outweighs this drawback for many users, aligning with GMK’s focus on aesthetic appeal and customization.
Trust me, the shine is a feature, not a bug.
As a former SAP Software Engineer and ex professional esports competitor in Warcraft 3, Dota, and CSGO, my passion for gaming and coding runs deep. My websites are a treasure trove where I share this rich expertise, along with my fascination for AI art and mechanical keyboards. Currently, I own three distinct keyboards, and my collection of keycaps is so vast, I've lost count – each one a testament to my commitment to quality and performance.
