Double-Shot vs Dye-Sub Keycaps: Which One is Better?

Double-shot keycaps are made by injecting two layers of plastic, while dye-sub keycaps use heat to dye the keycap material. Both methods create legends on keycaps, but they differ in durability and appearance. These keycaps are popular in mechanical keyboards for their unique features and styles.

In this article, we will compare double-shot vs dye-sub keycaps to help you make the right choice. We will look at things like durability, feel, and price. So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of keycaps, keep reading.

What are Dye-Sublimated Keycaps?

dye-sub keycaps are created using a heat-pressing procedure. In this process, dye is infused directly into the keycap material, typically PBT or ABS. 

This results in keycap legends that won’t fade easily, giving them long-lasting clarity. However, over time, the texture and feel of dye-sublimated keycaps may change due to wear and tear.

Keycap Material Differences

The two most common materials used for dye-sublimated keycaps are PBT and ABS. PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) is a thicker and more durable plastic, which makes the keycaps resistant to shine and wear. 

On the other hand, ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is lighter and more prone to wear, meaning the legends on ABS keycaps might fade quicker. The choice of material can affect the feel and durability of dye-sublimated keycaps.

Texture and Feel

The texture of dye-sublimated keycaps is generally smooth and matte. PBT keycaps have a more rigid texture, while ABS keycaps are slightly softer and can become shinier over time. 

The feel of the keycap is an important factor for many typists, especially for those who prefer a more textured surface to improve their grip during typing.

Durability

The durability of dye-sublimated keycaps can vary depending on the material used. PBT keycaps are generally more durable and resistant to fading compared to ABS keycaps. 

The legends on dye-sub keycaps won’t fade easily with normal use, but over time, heavy use, and exposure to UV light can cause wear, leading to a loss of clarity in the legends.

What are Double Shot Keycaps?

Double-shot keycaps are made using a process called double-shot injection molding. In this method, two layers of plastic are molded together, one for the keycap’s body and one for the legends. 

The benefit of this method is that the legends are molded into the keycap itself, meaning they won’t fade or wear off. This makes double-shot keycaps highly durable.

Backlighting

One of the major advantages of double-shot keycaps is their ability to support RGB backlighting. The transparent parts of the legends allow light to shine through, which is perfect for RGB backlit keycaps. 

This makes them an excellent choice for users who love having a glowing, customizable keyboard. Unlike dye-sublimated dye-sub keycaps, which may not always show the light as clearly, double-shot keycaps ensure bright, even backlighting.

Customization Options

Double-shot keycaps offer a lot of customization options. Because the legends are made of a different plastic from the keycap itself, designers can use multiple colors for the keycap and the legends. 

This allows for intricate designs, bold colors, and a wide variety of aesthetic choices. GMK keycap sets are a popular example of double-shot keycaps, offering premium designs with high customization.

Sound

The sound of double-shot keycaps can be a little different from other keycap types. Due to their thicker construction and the two layers of plastic, they often produce a deeper, more pronounced typing sound. 

This makes them ideal for users who prefer a more satisfying and louder typing experience compared to the quieter, more muted sound of dye-sublimated keycaps.

Double-Shot vs Dye-Sub Keycaps

Now, let’s compare Double-Shot vs Dye-Sub keycaps in terms of key aspects like look, durability, and customization.

Look

Double-shot keycaps tend to have sharper, clearer legends because the legends are physically molded into the keycap. On the other hand, dye-sub keycaps often have a softer, more subtle appearance, with the legends being dyed onto the surface. If you’re looking for a keycap that shows off intricate designs and vivid colors, double-shot keycaps are a better choice.

The Aesthetic

Both keycap types offer great aesthetic appeal. Double-shot keycaps are often used in premium keycap sets and offer intricate designs that stand out. 

Dye-sublimated keycaps, especially those made from PBT, provide a more classic, clean look. Vintage keyboard keycaps often use the dye-sublimation method for a more traditional, retro feel.

Read More: Best Keycap Brands for Custom Keyboards in [2025]

Texture and Feel

The feel of dye-sublimated keycaps can be either rough or smooth depending on whether they are made from PBT or ABS.

Double-shot keycaps, on the other hand, have a smoother, more uniform texture. This may provide a better typing experience for those who prefer a consistent feel across all keys.

Durability

In terms of durability, double-shot keycaps generally outlast dye-sublimated keycaps. Since the legends are part of the keycap itself, they won’t fade or wear down over time. 

Dye-sublimated keycaps, especially those made from ABS, may begin to fade as the legends are printed on the surface, leading to potential wear after extensive use.

Sound

The sound produced by double-shot keycaps is typically louder and more clicky, which is preferred by many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Dye-sublimated keycaps, especially if made from PBT, offer a quieter, softer typing experience.

Price

When comparing prices, dye-sublimated keycaps are generally cheaper than double-shot keycaps. The manufacturing process for double-shot keycaps is more complex and time-consuming, which results in a higher price tag. The durability and customization options offered by double-shot keycaps may make them worth the investment for some users.

Availability

Both types of keycaps are widely available through online keycap retailers. However, double-shot keycaps are typically found in premium keycap sets, such as GMK keycaps, and may have more limited availability. Dye-sublimated keycaps are more common and can be found at a variety of price points.

Double-Shot vs Dye-Sublimated Keycaps: The Price

When deciding between double-shot keycaps and dye-sublimated keycaps, price plays a major role. Double-shot keycaps are typically more expensive due to the double-shot injection molding process, which requires specialized machinery. 

Dye-sublimated keycaps made from PBT are affordable and offer great value for money. If you’re on a budget but still want durable keycaps, dye-sublimated might be the better option.

Common Usage of Both Styles

Both types of dye-sub keycaps are used by different kinds of users. Double-shot keycaps are often favored by gamers and enthusiasts who love RGB backlit keycaps and want to showcase colorful, intricate designs. 

On the other hand, dye-sub keycaps are often preferred by typists who value keycap durability and don’t need flashy designs or backlighting.

Usage

Both keycap types serve different purposes. Double-shot keycaps are perfect for RGB backlit keyboards, while dye-sublimated keycaps are best for those looking for durability and a classic look.

Backlighting

If you want your keyboard to glow with RGB backlighting, double-shot keycaps are the way to go. The legends are molded from transparent plastic, which allows the backlight to shine through. Dye-sublimated keycaps don’t provide this same effect, making them less suitable for those who prioritize RGB customization.

Verdict

In the end, the choice between double-shot and dye-sub keycaps depends on your preferences and needs. If you want durable keycaps with intricate designs, and you’re willing to pay more, double-shot keycaps are the best choice. But if you’re looking for budget-friendly keycaps that offer excellent durability and a clean look, dye-sublimated keycaps are a solid option.

FAQs

What are similarities between Dye-Sub & Double-Shot Keycaps?

Both dye-sub and double-shot keycaps are durable and have long-lasting legends that won’t fade easily with time. They also both come in a variety of materials and colors.

What are the differences between Dye-Sub & Double-Shot Keycaps?

The main difference lies in the manufacturing process. Double-shot keycaps have legends molded into the keycap, while dye-sublimated keycaps have the legends printed onto the surface.

Dye sub keycaps vs Double shot keycaps: Which is cheaper?

Dye-sublimated keycaps are generally cheaper because the dye-sublimation process is less complex than the double-shot injection molding method.

Are Double-Shot or Dye-Sub keycaps more durable?

Double-shot keycaps are more durable because the legends are part of the keycap itself, while dye-sublimated keycaps may show signs of fading over time.

Where can I buy Double-Shot and Dye-Sub keycaps?

You can find both types of keycaps at popular online retailers like MechanicalKeyboards.com and KBDfans.

Which keycap type is more popular: Double-Shot or Dye-Sub?

Double-shot keycaps are often preferred by enthusiasts for their durability and customization options, but dye-sublimated keycaps are widely used in vintage keyboard keycaps and budget builds.

What should I consider when choosing between Double-Shot and Dye-Sub keycaps?

Consider factors like price, aesthetics, backlighting needs, and durability when choosing between the two.

Conclusion

Both double-shot and dye-sublimated keycaps offer unique benefits, so the choice depends on your needs. If you want durability, customization, and a premium look, double-shot keycaps are a great option, especially for RGB backlit keyboards. 

If you’re looking for affordable keycaps with excellent durability and a clean, classic design, dye-sublimated keycaps made from PBT are a solid choice. Ultimately, it comes down to your preferences in terms of price, appearance, and functionality.