Choosing a keyboard can be tough- there are so many options on the market these days. But among all the choices, one of the most important is what kind of keycaps your keyboard has. There are two main types: double-shot and dye-sub.
They sound similar, but they’re actually quite different. So which one is right for you? Let’s take a look at each type.
Double shot Keycaps
If you want your keycaps to last, double-shot keycaps are the way to go. They’re made from two pieces of plastic molded together, so the letters will never fade away. And if a keycap gets damaged, you can replace that one piece instead of the entire set.
Double shot keycaps are also great for backlighting. The light can shine through the letters from the bottom, so they’ll always be visible- even in low light conditions.
Pros and Cons of Double shot keycaps
Dye-sub keycaps
Dye-sub keycaps are made by printing the letters onto the keycap with a dye. This gives them a sharp look but also means that the letters can eventually fade away with use. And if you damage one of these keycaps, you’ll need to replace the entire set.
Dye-sub keycaps can also be RGB illuminated backlit keyboards, but the light might not shine through as evenly as with double shot keycaps. The dye sublimation process is used for making dye-sub keycaps.
Pros and Cons of Dye-Sub keycaps
Comparison Between Double shot vs. dye sub keycaps
The type of keycap right for you depends on your preferences. If you want a durable and smooth keyboard that will last for years, styles double shot keycaps fully are the way to go.
But if you’re on a budget, dye-sub keycaps are a great option. And if you want your keyboard to have backlighting, either type will work.
No matter which type of keycap you choose, you’ll be able to find a set that looks great and fits your budget. So take your time, research, and pick the perfect set of keycaps for your keyboard.
The aesthetics
Both double shot and dye sub keycaps come in various colors and designs. So if you’re looking for a specific and best look, you’ll be able to find it with either type of keycap.
However, there are some differences in how the colors are applied. With double-shot keycaps, each color is injected into its own mold. This means that the dark-colored keycaps will never fade or rub off because they’re actually a part of the keycap itself.
Durability
Double shot keycaps are more durable keycaps than dye-sub keycaps. The letters will never fade away, and individual keycaps can be replaced if they get damaged. However, they are more expensive than dye-sub keycaps.
Performance
When it comes to performance, there is no clear winner. Both double shot and dye sub keycaps offer a smooth, responsive typing experience. So it really comes to your personal preference.
Double shot keycap sets are often used by gamers and people who type a lot because they’re more durable and offer a better backlighting experience. But if you’re just looking for a basic keyboard, dye sub keycaps will work fine.
The Price
Double shot keycaps are usually a little more expensive than dye-sub keycaps. But you’ll be able to use them for a longer time, so they may be worth the extra cost.
More Different Types of Keycaps
The different Types of keycaps are as follows:
- Laser etched keycaps
- UV coated keycaps
- Printed keycaps
Laser etched keycaps
Laser etched keycaps are made by using a laser for etching the design into the keycap. This gives the keycap a very clean and crisp look. UV-coated keycaps are made using a UV light to cure the design onto the keycap.
This gives the keycap a glossy finish. Dye sublimated keycaps are made by injecting dye into the keycap. This gives the keycap a very vibrant and saturated look. Double shot keycaps are made by injection molding two different plastic colors together.
This gives the keycap a very clean and crisp look. Printed keycaps are made by printing the design onto the keycap. This gives the keycap a wide variety of possible designs.
UV Coated Keycaps
UV-coated keycaps are made using a UV light to cure the design onto the keycap. This gives the keycap a glossy finish.
UV-coated keycaps are more durable than other keycaps because the design is sealed under two layers of clear plastic. UV-coated keycaps are also more resistant to fading.
Printed Keycaps
Printed keycaps are made by printing the design onto the keycap. This gives the keycap a wide variety of possible designs.
Printed keycaps are more durable than other keycaps because the design is sealed under a layer of clear plastic. Printed keycaps are also more resistant to fading.
Which one should you choose?
So which type of keycap is right for you? Double shot keycaps are the way to go if you’re looking for the best possible performance and durability.
However, they are more expensive than dye-sub keycaps. If you’re on a budget or simply looking for a specific aesthetic, then dye sub keycaps are a great option. Whichever you choose, you’ll be sure to enjoy a smooth, responsive typing experience.
Conclusion
There is no exact winner when it comes to double shot vs. dye sub keycaps. It really depends on your preferences. Double shot keycaps are the way to go if you’re looking for the best possible performance and durability.
But if you have a budget then simply looking for a specific aesthetic, then dye sub keycaps are a great option. Whichever you choose, you’ll be sure to enjoy a smooth, responsive typing experience.
FAQs
Is double shot better than dye sublimation?
The debate between double shot and dye sub keycaps has been around for a while now, with keyboard enthusiasts unable to decide which method is better. So, let’s take a closer look at the two methods to see how they differ.
Are Double Shot keycaps better?
Keycaps are an important part of buying a keyboard. There are all sorts available, and each type has its own upsides/downsides depending on what you’re looking for in your keys!
One popular kind is double shot – it comes from two pieces of plastic that gets molded together into one piece which makes them more durable than other options while preventing fading over time as well at higher price points but cheaper if not so much concerned about budgeting carefully because there’s a lot going inside these little boxes
What are dye sublimation keycaps?
Dye sublimation keycaps are made by infusing dyes into the keycap material. This results in a long-lasting image that won’t fade or wear away over time.
Dye sublimation is often used for things like mousepads and mugs, where you want a permanent design that won’t peel or scratch off.The main advantage of dye sublimation keycaps is that they’re very durable.
The downside is that they’re generally more expensive than other types of keycaps.
Does dye sub rub off?
No, the dye is permanently bonded to the keycap material.
Are all double-shot keycaps shine through?
No, not all double-shot keycaps are shine-through. Shine-through keycaps have a transparent portion that allows light to pass through, resulting in a high-quality backlit keycaps effect.
Not all double-shot keycaps are shine-through, so check the product listing before you make your purchase.
