Keycap
When choosing keycaps for your split keyboard, understanding compatibility with different switch types is crucial. Here's a breakdown based on switch types:
MX-Compatible Keycaps
This includes MX switches, Choc V2, and Gateron Low-Profile switches, all of which share the same cross stem design.
Keycap Profiles
Flat Profiles: DSA, XDA, and NP profiles are popular choices due to their uniform height across all keys, making them versatile and easy to use on split keyboards.
Sculpted Profiles: Cherry, SA, and MT3 profiles add ergonomic angles and heights for each row. These can enhance comfort but may require careful consideration of your keyboard’s layout to ensure proper alignment.
Low-profile MX: Keycaps like LPF from FK, nSA from NuPhy, and XVX are some low-profile options that maintain MX compatibility. These are particularly suitable for Choc V2 switches, which aim to achieve a low-profile build. With LPF keycaps, Choc V2 can achieve a height comparable to Choc V1 with MBK keycaps. You can browse Choc v1 and v2 height comparison for a detailed comparison.
Key Sizes and Layouts
Split keyboards often require a mix of 1u and other sizes like 1.5u for thumb clusters. Check that your keycap set provides the necessary sizes for your specific layout.
Legends and Aesthetics
Keycap legends can be an aesthetic choice, but for ortholinear or ergonomic layouts, ensure legends match the layout. Blank keycaps or those with uniform legends work well if specific legends aren’t required.
Lower Profile MX Keycaps
FK Caps LPF
Available exclusively on their website. We created our own South Shine legends (available here: FK LPF 60s Split Shinethrough). You can also create your custom legend: FK Caps Custom. Use code XCMKB15 for a 15% discount.
- Legends shine properly - Lowest profile - Fits split keyboards
- ABS surface prone to wear and shine over time
NuPhy nSA
Example: NuPhy nSA LP Canopus Shinethrough. Available in our store or from NuPhy and other retailers. Both LPF and nSA are laser-etched, but nSA legends resist wear and fading better.
- Legends shine - Legends last longer than LPF
- Large surface legends may diffuse RGB lighting more, so it might not shine as brightly as LPF
- Compatible with conventional keyboards
XVX Low Profile
Double-shot PBT keycaps. Non-shinethrough legends (shinethrough versions exist but only on the top legend, which won’t work with our SoflePLUS2). Check for XVX low-profile specifically, not Cherry or other profiles. Comes in many colorways.
- Made of durable PBT - More colorway options
- No shine through
Choc V1 Keycaps
Choc V1 switches have a unique stem design that requires specialized keycaps.
Keycap Options
MBK Profile: A low-profile option specifically designed for Choc V1 switches, offering excellent compatibility and a sleek look.
CFX Keycaps: Another popular choice tailored for Choc V1, available in a variety of colors and styles.
Switch Compatibility
Only keycaps explicitly designed for Choc V1 switches will work due to their distinct stem shape
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