Best filament for keycaps: the ABS standard

The short answerABS for the keycap standard. PETG for easier printing.

ABS is the standard keycap material, because it takes thin walls and a smooth finish. PETG is the easier pick that still works. PLA is too brittle for a keycap that gets pressed thousands of times.

What a keycap asks of a filament

A keycap takes repeated pressing, needs thin walls, and should hold a clean legend. ABS is the keyboard standard, because it prints thin, smooths well, and takes dye-sublimation. PLA is too brittle for the stem and the press.

How the materials compare

When to pick ABS

Pick ABS for real keycaps. The Polymaker PolyLite ABS sheet lists a nozzle of 245 to 265 °C, and ABS prints the thin walls and smooth surface a keycap needs. It also takes dye-sublimation for legends.

When to pick PETG

Pick PETG when you want keycaps without the ABS hassle. It prints without a heated chamber and is tough enough for the press. It will not dye-sub like ABS, but it works for a custom set.

For the materials, read the ABS guide or PETG guide. For other pressed parts, see best filament for mechanical parts.