Most keycap sets are overpriced, but the best budget keycaps don't have to cost more than $35.
At the $20–$35 tier, there are genuinely good PBT options. The problem is knowing which ones are worth it.
This post covers what to look for in budget keycaps, and our top picks across different categories: best overall, best for RGB, and more.
Here's a quick-pick comparison table to get you started:
| Category | Pick | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Best Side Print | SDYZ Side-Print PBT Keycaps | $20.99–$22.99 |
| Best Overall | GMKWTL XVX Shine-Through PBT | $24.99 |
| Best for RGB | Womier Shine-Through PBT | $26.99 |
| Best Low Profile | Womier Low Profile PBT | $19.99–$22.99 |
Table of Contents
What to Look for in Budget Keycaps
Material: PBT vs ABS
PBT is the priority at this price tier. It resists shine and has a better feel and sound profile.
ABS wears down and creates shine over time. You'll need to get a new keycap set after a few months with ABS, costing you more in the long run.
Profile
Profile mainly comes down to preference. If you're not sure, Cherry is a safe default. See Keycap Profiles Explained to find the right profile for you.
Legend Printing
Double-shot legends are the best choice because they don't fade over time. Dye-sub is also durable.
Avoid laser-etched and pad-printed even at the budget tier.
Now that you know what to look for, here are the best budget keycaps across every category.
Best Budget Keycaps: Our Top Picks
Best Overall
The GMKWTL XVX Shine-Through PBT Keycaps are the best budget keycaps for most people.
It comes with double-shot shine-through construction. The legends won't fade and RGB comes through cleanly.
The white and black colorway is versatile enough for almost any aesthetic, and with Cherry profile it's great for everyone.
With or without RGB on, it'll look clean on your desk.
Shop the GMKWTL XVX Keycaps here.
These keycaps are also great for gaming. See our full guide: Best Keycaps for Gaming.
Best for RGB
The Womier Shine-Through PBT Keycaps are perfect for RGB-focused setups.
It comes with double-shot PBT, shine-through legends, and a Cherry profile.
The legends are designed to let RGB through cleanly, and the matte frosted texture keeps it looking clean after heavy use.
Shop the Womier Shine-Through Keycaps here.
For a full breakdown of these keycaps, see Best Shine-Through Keycaps for RGB Keyboards.
Best Low-Profile
The Womier Low Profile Keycaps are the best budget low-profile keycaps.
These keycaps are the only pick designed for low-profile switches, and they're compatible with Cherry and Gateron MX switches.
With double-shot PBT construction and the lowest price in the lineup, they have amazing value for low-profile keyboard owners.
Shop the Womier Low Profile Keycaps here.
Best Side-Print
The SDYZ Side-Print PBT Keycaps are the best budget side-print keycaps.
The side-printed legends give a clean top-down look, perfect for aesthetic-focused setups.
Shop the SDYZ Side-Print Keycaps here.
Conclusion
Here's the quick summary:
- GMKWTL XVX: Best for most people
- Womier Shine-Through: Best for RGB-heavy setups
- SDYZ Side-Print: Best for side-print aesthetics
- Womier Low Profile: Best for low-profile boards
Browse our keycap collection to find the right one for you.
Related Articles
- Keycaps Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know
- PBT vs ABS Keycaps: Sound, Feel & Durability
- What Are Keycap Profiles? A Beginner's Guide
- Best Shine-Through Keycaps for RGB Keyboards
FAQ
Are cheap keycaps worth it?
Yes, as long as you choose PBT over ABS. Budget PBT keycaps resist shine, feel better over time, and have a better sound profile than cheap ABS sets.
At the $20–$35 tier, you can get doubleshot PBT quality that rivals sets costing twice as much.
What keycap material is best for budget buyers?
PBT is the best material at the budget tier. It's more durable than ABS, resists shine from finger oils, and generally sounds better.
Most of the picks in this guide use doubleshot PBT construction.
What keycap profile should I get?
Cherry profile is the safest default. It's widely compatible, comfortable for most typing styles, and easy to find at the budget tier.
How many keys do I need in a keycap set?
Look for 130+ keys to ensure full compatibility with 60%, 75%, TKL, and full-size layouts. Sets under 104 keys often miss modifiers or specialty keys needed for compact layouts.
Are shine-through keycaps worth it?
If you have an RGB keyboard, yes. Look for doubleshot shine-through construction; it lets RGB come through cleanly without the legends fading over time.
See our Best Shine-Through Keycaps guide for more options.