Keycap material profoundly affects typing feel, durability, and aesthetics. ABS keycaps are the industry default: smooth, affordable, and available in endless color options including backlit-compatible shine-through designs. However, ABS develops a shiny, greasy appearance after months of heavy use as the surface wears. PBT keycaps are textured, durable, and resistant to shine, maintaining their matte finish for years. PBT is harder to manufacture, limiting color options and making doubleshot PBT rare and expensive. POM keycaps offer a unique slippery feel and deep sound but are even rarer. For most users, thick PBT doubleshot keycaps represent the best long-term investment.