What Are OEM Profile Keycaps? An In-Depth Guide for Mechanical Keyboard Enthusiasts in 2024

When diving into the world of mechanical keyboards, one term you’ll frequently come across is keycap profile. A keycap profile refers to the shape and height of the keycaps on a keyboard. Among the many types available, OEM profile keycaps are the most widely used. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about OEM profile keycaps—what they are, their features, and how they compare to other keycap profiles. Whether you’re a typing enthusiast or a gamer, understanding OEM profile keycaps will help you make an informed decision when upgrading or customizing your keyboard in 2024.

What Are OEM Profile Keycaps?

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, which refers to the companies that manufacture keyboards for well-known brands. OEM profile keycaps are the standard keycaps found on most mass-produced mechanical keyboards. These keycaps have a sculpted shape, meaning each row of keys has a different height and angle, creating an ergonomic design that follows the natural curvature of your fingers.

Because they are the most common profile, you’re likely already familiar with OEM keycaps if you’ve used a mechanical keyboard before. However, they are only one of many different keycap profiles, and it’s essential to understand their characteristics to determine if they’re the right fit for you.

Key Features of OEM Profile Keycaps

1. Design and Shape

OEM profile keycaps are sculpted, meaning the height and angle of the keycaps vary depending on the row. The top rows (ESC, F1-F12) are the tallest, while the bottom rows (space bar, Ctrl, etc.) are the shortest. This sculpted design provides a natural typing experience, allowing your fingers to move comfortably across the keyboard without unnecessary strain.

The OEM keycap profile is typically classified as medium-height. The standard height is around 11.9 mm tall, which places it between low-profile keycaps (such as Cherry or DSA) and high-profile keycaps (such as SA). Because of its balanced height, many people find it easier to adjust to OEM keycaps, especially if they are transitioning from membrane keyboards.

2. Typing Experience and Ergonomics

One of the main reasons OEM profile keycaps are so popular is due to their ergonomics. The sculpted design means your fingers can rest in a natural position, which reduces strain over long periods of typing or gaming. This makes OEM keycaps an excellent choice for office work, coding, or long gaming sessions.

The slanted angle of the keycaps allows your fingers to move more fluidly across the keyboard, making it easier to type without looking at the keys. This design is particularly beneficial for touch typists, as it promotes a more efficient and comfortable typing style.

3. Materials and Durability

Most OEM keycaps are made from two common materials: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate). Each material has its own pros and cons:

• ABS Keycaps: ABS plastic is lightweight and cost-effective, making it the go-to choice for many mass-produced keyboards. However, ABS keycaps are prone to wear over time, resulting in a shiny surface and less resistance to smudging. They also have a thinner sound profile, which produces a more high-pitched click or “clack” sound when typing.
• PBT Keycaps: PBT keycaps are thicker and more durable than ABS. They are less prone to wear and maintain their texture and appearance even after years of heavy use. PBT keycaps produce a deeper, more satisfying “thock” sound when pressed, which many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts prefer. They also resist yellowing, making them a better long-term investment.

For OEM profile keycaps, PBT is generally considered the superior material because of its durability and premium feel. However, ABS keycaps are also common due to their affordability.

4. Sound Profile

The sound produced by keycaps depends on factors like material, thickness, and the switch underneath. OEM keycaps generally produce a moderate “thock” sound when made from PBT and a lighter “clack” when made from ABS. The sculpted design of OEM keycaps means that they tend to produce a louder sound than flat-profile keycaps, which is a feature some users appreciate for feedback and others may find distracting in quiet environments.

5. Compatibility

OEM profile keycaps are widely compatible with most mechanical keyboards that use Cherry MX-style switches or other similar switch types like Gateron, Kailh, and Outemu. This compatibility makes it easy to swap out your OEM keycaps for a new set without worrying about fit issues.

Additionally, OEM keycaps are available in a range of keyboard layouts, including ANSI (American) and ISO (European) layouts. This makes them accessible for international users as well.

Pros and Cons of OEM Profile Keycaps

Pros:

• Widely available: OEM keycaps are the most common profile and are found on most mechanical keyboards, making them easy to find and purchase.
• Ergonomic design: The sculpted rows provide a natural typing position, which reduces strain on your fingers and wrists.
• Balanced height: The medium height of OEM keycaps strikes a balance between low and high-profile options, making it easy for users to adapt.
• Affordable: OEM keycaps are often cheaper than high-profile keycaps like SA or custom-made sets, making them a budget-friendly option.

Cons:

• Lack of uniqueness: Since OEM keycaps are mass-produced, they may lack the uniqueness or aesthetic appeal of custom or high-profile keycap sets.
• Sound may not suit everyone: The sound produced by OEM keycaps can be louder than flat-profile keycaps, which may be distracting in quiet environments or offices.
• Not ideal for gaming enthusiasts: For competitive gamers, other profiles like Cherry or DSA may offer faster response times due to their shorter height and less travel distance.

OEM Profile Keycaps vs. Other Keycap Profiles

Let’s compare OEM keycaps to some of the other popular keycap profiles in the market:

1. OEM vs. Cherry Profile

Cherry keycaps are shorter than OEM keycaps and have a similar sculpted design. Cherry keycaps are a popular choice among gamers and typists who prefer a lower profile and quieter typing experience. They are slightly more difficult to find but offer a smoother and faster typing experience.

2. OEM vs. SA Profile

SA keycaps are known for their tall, spherical shape and vintage aesthetic. Unlike OEM keycaps, SA keycaps have a much steeper profile and take time to get used to. They are a popular choice for those who want a retro feel or enjoy the deep “thock” sound they produce, but they may not be as comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions.

3. OEM vs. DSA Profile

DSA keycaps are flat and uniform, meaning that all rows of keys are the same height. This creates a very different typing experience compared to OEM keycaps. DSA keycaps are great for customization because they allow you to move keys around without worrying about mismatched heights. However, they don’t provide the same ergonomic benefits as sculpted profiles like OEM or Cherry.

Customizing OEM Keycaps: A Gateway to Mechanical Keyboard Enthusiasm

One of the best parts about OEM profile keycaps is that they serve as an excellent starting point for those looking to customize their mechanical keyboards. Whether you’re swapping out for a set of colorful PBT keycaps, opting for a themed artisan set, or adding custom legends, OEM keycaps offer an affordable and accessible way to personalize your keyboard without sacrificing comfort or compatibility.

Conclusion: Are OEM Profile Keycaps Right for You?

In conclusion, OEM profile keycaps are a versatile and ergonomic choice for most mechanical keyboard users. Their sculpted design, moderate height, and compatibility with various switch types make them a reliable option for both typists and gamers alike. While they may not be as unique or flashy as some other profiles, their affordability and availability make them a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade or customize their keyboard in 2024.

If you’re just starting your journey into mechanical keyboards, OEM profile keycaps offer a balanced and accessible option that delivers comfort, durability, and a satisfying typing experience.