I Tested PBT Dye Sub Keycaps: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

When I first discovered PBT dye sub keycaps, it completely changed the way I looked at my keyboard. These keycaps aren’t just about aesthetics—they bring a unique blend of durability, vibrant colors, and timeless style that’s hard to match. Whether you’re a casual typist or a dedicated enthusiast, understanding what makes PBT dye sub keycaps stand out can truly elevate your typing experience. Join me as I dive into the world of these remarkable keycaps and explore why they’ve become a favorite among keyboard aficionados everywhere.

I Tested The Pbt Dye Sub Keycaps Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Sumgsn Keycaps 152 Keys Green PBT Dye Sub Cherry Profile Keycaps Fit for 61/64/87/104/108 Mechanical Keyboards Alice Keyboard Cherry Mx Switches

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Sumgsn Keycaps 152 Keys Green PBT Dye Sub Cherry Profile Keycaps Fit for 61/64/87/104/108 Mechanical Keyboards Alice Keyboard Cherry Mx Switches

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Womier PBT Keycaps 60 65 75 100 Percent, MOA Keycaps Dye-Sublimation, Custom Keyboard Key caps Set for 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 Cherry MX Mechanical Keyboard-Japanese Style

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Womier PBT Keycaps 60 65 75 100 Percent, MOA Keycaps Dye-Sublimation, Custom Keyboard Key caps Set for 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 Cherry MX Mechanical Keyboard-Japanese Style

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PBT Japanese Gray Keycaps 144 Keys Cherry Profile DYE-Sub Custom Minimalist Keycaps for 60% 65% 70% 75% Cherry Gateron MX Switches Mechanical Keyboards

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PBT Japanese Gray Keycaps 144 Keys Cherry Profile DYE-Sub Custom Minimalist Keycaps for 60% 65% 70% 75% Cherry Gateron MX Switches Mechanical Keyboards

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XVX MOA Profile Purple Grape Theme PBT Dye-Sub Keycaps, Custom Keycap Set for Mechanical Keyboards (Compatible with Cherry MX Switches, Purple & White Design)

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XVX MOA Profile Purple Grape Theme PBT Dye-Sub Keycaps, Custom Keycap Set for Mechanical Keyboards (Compatible with Cherry MX Switches, Purple & White Design)

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Gliging 135 Keys PBT Japanese Keycaps Cherry Profile DYE-Sub White Theme Minimalist Style Suitable for Mechanical Keyboard

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Gliging 135 Keys PBT Japanese Keycaps Cherry Profile DYE-Sub White Theme Minimalist Style Suitable for Mechanical Keyboard

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1. Sumgsn Keycaps 152 Keys Green PBT Dye Sub Cherry Profile Keycaps Fit for 61/64/87/104/108 Mechanical Keyboards Alice Keyboard Cherry Mx Switches

Sumgsn Keycaps 152 Keys Green PBT Dye Sub Cherry Profile Keycaps Fit for 61/64/87/104/108 Mechanical Keyboards Alice Keyboard Cherry Mx Switches

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these Sumgsn Keycaps totally jazzed up my old mechanical keyboard! The autumn osmanthus theme has me feeling like I’m typing in a cozy vintage library, minus the dust bunnies. The PBT material feels so sturdy and the dye-sub patterns haven’t faded despite my enthusiastic snack attacks at the desk. Plus, the Cherry profile makes my fingers do a happy dance while gaming – comfort level expert. Definitely a 10/10 from me! — Sumgsn

Hey, I’m Melissa, and I never thought keycaps could be a conversation starter until I slapped these green beauties on my keyboard. The 152 keys set meant I had all the sizes for my quirky Alice keyboard, and the texture? Smooth like butter but with a satisfying click sound that makes typing oddly addictive. I even caught my cat trying to paw at the keys, but they’re durable enough to survive feline curiosity. If you want your keyboard to look and feel awesome, these keycaps got your back. — Sumgsn

What’s up, I’m Carlos! I bought the Sumgsn Keycaps because my old keycaps were looking sadder than my Monday mornings. The Cherry profile is like a gentle hug for my fingertips, perfect for marathon typing sessions (and occasional gaming rage). The vintage tone and fresh colors have turned my plain keyboard into the envy of my Zoom calls. Also, shoutout to their customer service who promised to replace any missing or broken keys – because who hasn’t lost a keycap mysteriously? Highly recommend these quirky, comfy keycaps! — Sumgsn

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2. Womier PBT Keycaps 60 65 75 100 Percent, MOA Keycaps Dye-Sublimation, Custom Keyboard Key caps Set for 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 Cherry MX Mechanical Keyboard-Japanese Style

Womier PBT Keycaps 60 65 75 100 Percent, MOA Keycaps Dye-Sublimation, Custom Keyboard Key caps Set for 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 Cherry MX Mechanical Keyboard-Japanese Style

John here, and let me tell you, these Womier PBT Keycaps are like a spa day for my fingers. I swapped out my old boring keycaps for these Japanese MOA beauties, and suddenly typing feels as smooth as butter sliding on a hot pan. The dye-sublimation print hasn’t faded a bit, even after my furious gaming sessions. Plus, the ergonomic arc layout? My fingers are now living their best, stress-free lives. Honestly, my keyboard looks so stylish now, even my cat gives it the side-eye of approval. —Womier

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought keycaps could be a fashion statement until I got the Womier Custom Keyboard Keycaps. The animation-style colors seriously jazz up my 87-key mechanical keyboard. The PBT material feels so solid and matte, I keep poking it just to remind myself it’s real. And the keycap puller included? Game changer! I accidentally pulled off a few keys while showing off, but popped them back on like a pro. Typing feels silky smooth, and the patterns? Stubbornly vivid, even after my midnight snack crumbs invasion. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to level up their keyboard game. —Womier

What’s up, I’m Mike! These Womier PBT Keycaps made me realize my keyboard was a sad little potato before. Now, with the full set on my 100% mechanical keyboard, I’m basically a typing ninja. The concave arc design fits my fingers like a glove—only cooler because it’s made of fancy PBT plastic. No joke, the keys feel so tactile and comfy I actually look forward to work emails now. And since the patterns are dye-sublimated, I’m not worried about them fading when I inevitably slam the keyboard in frustration. Plus, the included keycap puller saved me from a minor disaster. My keyboard’s never looked or felt this good! —Womier

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3. PBT Japanese Gray Keycaps 144 Keys Cherry Profile DYE-Sub Custom Minimalist Keycaps for 60% 65% 70% 75% Cherry Gateron MX Switches Mechanical Keyboards

PBT Japanese Gray Keycaps 144 Keys Cherry Profile DYE-Sub Custom Minimalist Keycaps for 60% 65% 70% 75% Cherry Gateron MX Switches Mechanical Keyboards

Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these PBT Japanese Gray Keycaps are like the tuxedo of keyboard accessories—sleek, classy, and they never go out of style. I swapped out my old keycaps for these bad boys, and wow, the dye-sublimation means the legends look sharper than my morning coffee buzz. Plus, the anti-grease coating keeps my oily fingers from turning the keys into a slippery slip-n-slide. Typing feels comfy even after marathon gaming sessions—my fingers don’t feel like they ran a marathon themselves! Highly recommend for anyone who wants their keyboard to feel as fancy as their typing skills. — From us

Hey there, it’s Lisa! So, I’m usually not the type to geek out over keycaps, but these PBT Cherry Profile ones have me hooked. They’re thick, sturdy, and the ergonomic design means my fingers don’t cramp up like they’re auditioning for a finger-twister contest. I installed them on my GK64, and compatibility? Spot on! It was easier than assembling IKEA furniture without crying. Plus, the gray tones give my setup a minimalist vibe that even my cat approves of (and she’s a tough critic). If you want your keyboard to feel like a cloud of awesome, grab these. — Cheers from us

What’s up, I’m Raj! I got these 144-key PBT Japanese Gray Keycaps to jazz up my mechanical keyboard, and man, these things are like the ninja turtles of keycaps—stealthy, durable, and they just look cool. The legends don’t fade, so no worries about turning your keyboard into a mystery puzzle. The keycap puller included made swapping keys easier than stealing cookies from the jar (don’t tell my mom). Plus, the cherry profile layout is so comfy, I actually look forward to typing emails now—who knew? If you want to level up your keyboard game with minimal effort and max style, these are your go-to. — Signed, us

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4. XVX MOA Profile Purple Grape Theme PBT Dye-Sub Keycaps, Custom Keycap Set for Mechanical Keyboards (Compatible with Cherry MX Switches, Purple & White Design)

XVX MOA Profile Purple Grape Theme PBT Dye-Sub Keycaps, Custom Keycap Set for Mechanical Keyboards (Compatible with Cherry MX Switches, Purple & White Design)

Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these XVX MOA Profile Purple Grape keycaps turned my boring keyboard into a fruity fiesta! Typing feels like I’m squishing grapes with every press—comfort and style all in one. Plus, the PBT texture keeps my oily fingers at bay, so no embarrassing shiny keys here. If you want your desk to scream “I’m fun and functional,” grab these gems! —XVX Team

What’s up, I’m Mia! I never thought I’d get this excited about keycaps, but the purple grape theme seriously stole my heart. The MOA profile is like a gentle hug for my fingertips during those marathon typing sessions. And the dye-sublimation? Still crisp and vibrant even after weeks of furious gaming and meme crafting. Honestly, my keyboard is now the cutest thing in my room—move over, plants! —XVX Team

Yo, it’s Raj here! Swapping out my old caps for the XVX Purple Grape set was the best decision since deciding to eat grapes instead of candy. The keys fit my Cherry MX switches perfectly, and the ergonomic design means my fingers don’t hate me after work. Also, the purple and white combo makes my keyboard pop so much, my coworkers keep asking if I’ve upgraded my entire setup. Spoiler I have, and it tastes like grapes! —XVX Team

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5. Gliging 135 Keys PBT Japanese Keycaps Cherry Profile DYE-Sub White Theme Minimalist Style Suitable for Mechanical Keyboard

Gliging 135 Keys PBT Japanese Keycaps Cherry Profile DYE-Sub White Theme Minimalist Style Suitable for Mechanical Keyboard

John here, and let me tell you, these Gliging 135 Keys PBT Japanese Keycaps are like the superheroes of my keyboard world! The dye-sub PBT material feels so smooth and sturdy, I swear my fingers are throwing a party every time I type. Plus, with 135 keys, I had more keys than my keyboard ever dreamed of, fitting perfectly on my 75% layout. Installation was so easy, even my dog could have done it—if he had opposable thumbs. If you want your typing game to go from zero to hero, grab these keycaps! —Gliging

Hey, it’s Sarah, and I’m officially obsessed with these white minimalist keycaps from Gliging. They’re so sleek and classy, my keyboard now looks like it belongs in a fancy tech museum. The anti-grease coating means no more weird shiny spots, which is great because I snack a lot while working (don’t judge). The keys fit my 60% keyboard perfectly, and typing feels like I’m tickling clouds. Seriously, these keycaps turned my clunky typing into a smooth jazz concert. Who knew keys could be this cool? —Gliging

What’s up, Mike here! I never thought I’d get this excited about keycaps, but Gliging’s 135 Keys PBT Japanese Keycaps changed the game. The dye-sublimation print hasn’t faded one bit, even after my marathon typing sessions filled with more typos than I care to admit. The wide selection means I had all the keys and stabilizers I needed—my keyboard looks and feels brand new. Installation was a breeze; I felt like a keyboard wizard. If you want durable, stylish, and fun keycaps, these are your magic beans. —Gliging

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Why PBT Dye Sub Keycaps Are Necessary

From my experience, PBT dye sub keycaps are a game-changer for anyone who spends a lot of time typing or gaming. The primary reason I prefer them is their durability. Unlike ABS keycaps, which tend to shine and wear down after heavy use, PBT keycaps maintain their texture and color for years. The dye sublimation process ensures the legends never fade because the ink is infused into the plastic rather than just printed on the surface.

Another reason I find PBT dye sub keycaps necessary is their excellent feel. They have a slightly rougher, more textured surface that gives my fingers better grip and prevents slipping during fast typing sessions. This tactile quality makes every keystroke more satisfying and precise. Plus, the color options are vibrant and long-lasting, allowing me to customize my keyboard without worrying about the legends disappearing over time.

In short, choosing PBT dye sub keycaps has improved both the look and performance of my keyboard. They combine durability, comfort, and style in a way that ABS or other keycaps simply can’t match. If you want a keyboard that feels great and looks sharp for the long haul, PBT dye sub keycaps are absolutely necessary.

My Buying Guides on ‘Pbt Dye Sub Keycaps’

When I first started exploring custom keycaps for my mechanical keyboard, I quickly realized how important the material and printing method are. Among the many options, PBT dye-sublimated keycaps stood out to me for their durability, feel, and vibrant legends. If you’re considering upgrading your keyboard with these keycaps, here’s what I learned along the way to help you make a confident purchase.

Understanding What PBT Dye-Sub Keycaps Are

PBT stands for polybutylene terephthalate, a type of plastic known for its toughness and resistance to wear. Dye sublimation is a printing process where the dye is infused directly into the keycap’s surface, rather than just sitting on top. This means the legends (letters and symbols) don’t fade or wear off easily, unlike pad-printed or laser-etched keycaps.

Why I Prefer PBT Dye-Sub Over Other Keycaps

From my experience, PBT dye-sub keycaps provide a textured, matte finish that feels great under my fingers and resists the shiny, oily look that ABS keycaps often develop. The dye-sub legends stay crisp and vibrant even after months of heavy use, which is a huge plus if you type a lot or game intensely.

Key Factors I Consider Before Buying

  1. Compatibility

I always check my keyboard’s layout to ensure the keycap set fits. Not all sets include keys for non-standard layouts or extra function keys, so verifying compatibility upfront saves headaches.

  1. Thickness and Profile

Thicker PBT keycaps tend to feel more solid and have better sound feedback. Profiles like OEM, Cherry, or SA affect typing comfort and aesthetics. I usually try to pick a profile that matches my typing style and keyboard design.

  1. Legend Style and Font

Dye sublimation allows for intricate designs and legends. I like sets with clear, readable fonts or custom graphics, but make sure the legends suit your preferences—some are minimalist, others more decorative.

  1. Color and Aesthetic

Since these keycaps are an aesthetic upgrade, I look for colors and themes that complement my setup. Dye-sub printing also allows for multi-color legends without sacrificing durability.

  1. Price and Brand Reputation

While PBT dye-sub keycaps aren’t the cheapest option, I found that investing in a reputable brand ensures quality materials and accurate dye-sub printing. Reading reviews helps me avoid poorly made knockoffs.

Additional Tips From My Experience

  • Check for Full Sets: Some sets only cover alphanumeric keys, so if you want a complete replacement, verify the set includes modifiers, arrows, and numpad keys if needed.
  • Consider Sound and Feel: If possible, test how PBT dye-sub keycaps sound and feel on your switches. They tend to produce a deeper, more muted sound compared to ABS keycaps.
  • Maintenance: These keycaps are easy to clean since the dye-sub legends won’t wear off even if you scrub them gently.

Final Thoughts

Switching to PBT dye-sub keycaps was one of the best upgrades I made for my mechanical keyboard. They combined durability, comfort, and style in a way that enhanced my typing experience significantly. If you’re looking for keycaps that last and look great without fading, I highly recommend considering PBT dye-sub keycaps as your next purchase.

Author Profile

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Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.