Let’s delve into the world of keycaps profiles, focusing specifically on Cherry Vs OEM Keycaps Profiles. We will explore their unique characteristics, discuss their pros and cons, and ultimately help you determine which keycap profile is better suited for your preferences and typing needs.
With the plethora of keycap profiles available in the market, two popular options that often spark debates among keyboard enthusiasts are Cherry and OEM keycaps.
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What are Keycap Profiles?
Before we dive into the specifics of Cherry and OEM keycaps, let’s take a moment to understand what keycap profiles are. Keycap profiles refer to the shape and design of the keycaps, which can significantly impact your typing experience.
Some are flat, some are rounded, some are curved, etc. This allows the keycaps to either be flat, or angled, in each row to give a different typing experience.
Different keycap profiles offer varying heights, angles, and curves, all of which influence how your fingers interact with the keyboard.
Here are some of the most popular keycap profiles:
- OEM: This is the most common keycap profile and is found on most pre-built keyboards. The keycaps are slightly angled, with the highest point being on the home row. This profile is a good all-around choice and is comfortable for both typing and gaming.
- Cherry: This profile is similar to OEM, but the keycaps are slightly taller. This profile is popular among enthusiasts who prefer a taller keycap.
- SA: This profile is the tallest of the three and has a very pronounced curvature. This profile is not for everyone, but it can be very comfortable for some people.
- DSA: This profile is uniform, meaning that all of the keycaps are the same height. This profile is popular among people who want a consistent typing experience across all rows.
- MT3: This profile is similar to DSA, but the keycaps have a more sculpted shape. This profile is popular among people who want a comfortable and ergonomic typing experience.
Today We are Talking about Cherry VS OEM keycaps.
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Is OEM the same as Cherry Profile?
No, OEM and Cherry profile are not the same. OEM profile is the most common keycap profile and is found on most pre-built keyboards. The keycaps are slightly angled, with the highest point being on the home row.
Cherry profile is similar to OEM, but the keycaps are slightly taller. This profile is popular among enthusiasts who prefer a taller keycap.
Here is a table comparing the two profiles:
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Cherry Vs OEM Keycaps Profile Comparison
When comparing Cherry and OEM keycap profiles, it’s important to consider several factors, including ergonomics, typing experience, aesthetics, customization options, and keycap compatibility. Let’s take a closer look at how these two profiles stack up against each other:
Ergonomics and Typing Experience:
Cherry Profile: Cherry keycaps are known for their sculpted design, which follows the natural curvature of your fingers. This sculpted profile can provide a more ergonomic typing experience, as it allows your fingers to comfortably rest on the keycaps.
The varying heights and angles of the keycaps can enhance finger placement and reduce fatigue during long typing sessions.
OEM Profile: OEM keycaps offer a more uniform typing experience, as all the keycaps have the same shape and height. While they may not provide the same ergonomic benefits as Cherry keycaps, some users prefer the consistent feel across all keys.
The slightly curved top surface of OEM keycaps can still offer a comfortable typing experience.
Aesthetic Appeal and Customization:
Cherry Profile: Cherry keycaps are often favored for their distinct sculpted shape, which adds visual interest to the keyboard. They are available in a wide range of colors and designs, allowing for extensive customization options.
This makes Cherry keycaps popular among enthusiasts who enjoy personalizing their mechanical keyboards.
OEM Profile: OEM keycaps have a more understated aesthetic compared to Cherry keycaps. They typically have a simple and clean design, making them suitable for users who prefer a minimalist or professional look.
While OEM keycaps may not offer as many customization options as Cherry keycaps, they are available in various colorways and can still be customized to some extent.
Keycap Compatibility:
Cherry Profile: Cherry keycaps are specifically designed for keyboards that support the Cherry MX switch system. This means they are most commonly found on keyboards that use Cherry MX switches or compatible clones.
While Cherry keycaps have good compatibility within this specific ecosystem, they may not fit other switch types or non-Cherry keyboards.
OEM Profile: One advantage of OEM keycaps is their widespread compatibility. Since OEM is a standard profile, they can be easily swapped with keycaps from different manufacturers without compatibility issues.
This makes OEM keycaps a versatile choice for users who want to experiment with different keycap sets or switch brands.
Here is a comparison Table Between Cherry Vs OEM keycaps.
| Feature | Cherry | OEM |
| Height | 1.35 mm | 1.45 mm |
| Row curvature | More pronounced | Less pronounced |
| Sculpting | Sculpted | Uniform |
| Material | ABS or PBT | ABS or PBT |
| Price | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Availability | More difficult to find | More readily available |
| Compatibility | Compatible with most mechanical keyboards | Compatible with most mechanical keyboards |
| Comfort | More comfortable for some people | More comfortable for some people |
| Typing feel | More tactile and responsive | More smooth and linear |
| Sound | Produces a deeper sound | Produces a higher sound |
Here is Video Guide About Cherry Vs OEM Keycaps
What are Cherry Keycaps Profile?
Cherry profile keycaps are a type of mechanical keyboard keycap that is known for its comfort and accuracy. They are sculpted, meaning that each row is slightly different in height, which helps to position your fingers in a natural way.
Cherry profile keycaps are also made from high-quality materials, such as PBT plastic, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
Pros:
- Comfortable to type on
- Reduce fatigue
- Sleek and stylish look
- Wide range of colors and designs available
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than other types of keycaps
- Not as widely available as other types of keycaps
- Can be difficult to find keycaps that fit your specific keyboard
Are Cherry keycaps the best?
Cherry keycaps are a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. They are known for their comfortable design and their durability. Cherry keycaps are also available in a wide range of colors and styles, so you can find a set that matches your taste.
If you are looking for a comfortable and durable set of keycaps for your mechanical keyboard, Cherry keycaps are a good option to consider. However, it is important to try out different profiles before you decide which one is the most comfortable for you.
Are Cherry MX keycaps Worth the Price?
Are Cherry keycaps loud?
Cherry MX switches come in a variety of Designs, each with its own unique sound signature. For example, Cherry MX Blue switches are known for their loud clicky sound, while Cherry MX Red switches are known for their quiet linear sound.
Cherry keycaps are not as loud as some other types of keycaps, such as ABS keycaps. However, the loudness of any given set of Cherry keycaps will still depend on the type of switch that is used.
If you are concerned about the loudness of your Cherry keycaps, you may want to consider using a switch that is known for its quiet sound, such as Cherry MX Red or Cherry MX Silent Red.
You may also want to consider using a keyboard with a sound dampening case or o-rings, which can help to reduce the noise that is produced when you type.
What are OEM Keycaps Profile?
OEM keycaps are a type of keycap profile that is the most common type of keycaps found on pre-built mechanical keyboards.
They are taller than other types of keycaps, such as Cherry profile keycaps, and have a more sculpted design. This makes them ideal for typing, as they provide more support for your fingers.
OEM keycaps are also more durable than other types of keycaps, making them a good choice for gamers.
- Height: 11.9 mm
- Top profile: Cylindrical
- Sculpt: Stepped
- Material: ABS or PBT
- Availability: Widely available
Pros:
- More comfortable for typing
- More durable
- More affordable
- Widely available
Cons:
- Taller than other types of keycaps
- More sculpted design can make them feel cramped for some people
- Not as aesthetically pleasing as other types of keycaps
Is OEM or Cherry better for gaming?
Cherry profile keycaps are often preferred by gamers who enjoy a bit more keycap Shorter key travel, as they can provide a slightly more substantial feel when typing or gaming.
The Smart keycap height can offer more tactile feedback and a satisfying keystroke experience, which some gamers may prefer.
Keep in Mind that both Cherry and OEM keycaps are generally reliable for gaming use, so the decision ultimately depends on your individual preferences and typing style.
It’s a good idea to try out both profiles if possible or seek recommendations from fellow gamers to find the keycap profile that suits you best.
Are OEM profile keycaps good?
Yes, OEM profile keycaps are considered to be good and are widely used in many keyboards. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, and these keycaps are the standard keycaps that typically come with most pre-built keyboards.
OEM profile keycaps have a slightly taller profile compared to other keycap profiles like Cherry, DSA, SA, etc.
They provide a comfortable typing and gaming experience for many users. The slightly taller height of OEM keycaps can offer a bit more keycap surface area, which some people find easier to press and locate while typing or gaming.
OEM keycaps are known for their durability and reliability. They are often made from high-quality materials such as ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate), which ensures long-lasting usage.
And, OEM keycaps are compatible with a wide range of keyboards, making them a versatile option for gamers.
Does Razer use OEM?
Yes, Razer keyboards typically use keycaps with an OEM profile. The keycaps that come pre-installed on Razer keyboards are designed with the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) profile. This profile is one of the most commonly used and widely available keycap profiles in the industry.
OEM profile keycaps have a sculpted design, meaning that the shape and height of the keycaps vary between rows.
The keycaps are designed to accommodate the natural curvature of your fingers as they move across the keyboard. This sculpted design helps improve comfort and typing accuracy.
The OEM profile keycaps on Razer keyboards, like many other OEM keycaps, typically feature a slightly taller height compared to other profiles, such as Cherry profile or DSA profile.
The taller height can provide a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, and some users find it more comfortable.
Is OEM keyboard good for gaming?
Yes, OEM keyboards can be good for gaming. While the keyboard itself plays a significant role in gaming performance, the keycap profile, such as OEM, also contributes to the overall gaming experience.
Here are some reasons why OEM keyboards can be good for gaming:
- Comfortable Typing: OEM keycaps have a slightly taller profile, which can provide a more comfortable typing experience for many users. The increased keycap height allows for better finger positioning and can reduce the strain on your hands during long gaming sessions.
- Familiarity: OEM keycaps are the standard keycaps found on most pre-built keyboards, including many gaming keyboards. This means that gamers who are used to OEM keycaps will find them familiar and comfortable to use, allowing for a seamless transition to a new keyboard.
- Durability: OEM keycaps are typically made from high-quality materials like ABS or PBT, ensuring durability and longevity. This is important for gaming, where intense and prolonged use of the keyboard is common.
- Versatility: OEM keycaps are widely available and compatible with various keyboard layouts and switches. This makes it easier to find replacement keycaps or customize your keyboard according to your preferences.
Do OEM keycaps fit Cherry?
Yes, OEM keycaps are generally compatible with Cherry MX switches. Both OEM keycaps and Cherry MX switches adhere to a standardized keycap mounting system known as the Cherry MX stem.
The stem is the part of the switch where the keycap attaches. It consists of a cross-shaped stem with four legs. OEM keycaps are designed to have corresponding keycap stems that fit onto Cherry MX switches.
Therefore, you can typically use OEM keycaps on keyboards with Cherry MX switches without any compatibility issues. This interchangeability allows users to customize their keyboards by swapping out the keycaps while keeping the same switches.
It’s worth noting that while OEM keycaps are compatible with Cherry MX switches, they may have a different profile and feel compared to Cherry profile keycaps.
OEM keycaps are slightly taller and have a different shape, which can affect the typing and gaming experience. So, while they are physically compatible, the overall feel and aesthetics may differ.
OEM vs Cherry Profile keycaps: Which is Better
OEM and Cherry profile keycaps are very similar, but there are a few key differences. Cherry profile keycaps are slightly shorter and have a more aggressive angle than OEM keycaps.
This can make them more comfortable to type on for some people, but it can also make them feel cramped for others. OEM keycaps are more common and are typically less expensive than Cherry keycaps.
And the best profile for you is a matter of personal preference. If you’re not sure which one to choose, I recommend trying both and seeing which one feels more comfortable.
Here is a more detailed comparison of the two profiles:
Cherry Profile
- Shorter height
- More aggressive angle
- More comfortable for some people
- Less common
- More expensive
OEM Profile
- Taller height
- Less aggressive angle
- More common
- Less expensive
Does it matter what keycaps you get?
Yes, it does matter what keycaps you get. The keycaps you choose can affect the feel, sound, and appearance of your mechanical keyboard.
Feel:
The keycaps you choose can affect the feel of your mechanical keyboard in a few ways. The material of the keycaps can make a big difference. ABS keycaps are the most common type of keycaps and are relatively inexpensive.
They are also relatively smooth, which can make them feel slippery to some people. PBT keycaps are more expensive than ABS keycaps, but they are also more durable and have a textured surface that can make them feel more comfortable to type on.
The profile of the keycaps can also affect the feel. Cherry profile keycaps are the most common type of profile and are considered to be a good all-around profile.
They are neither too tall nor too short and have a slight angle that can help to improve your typing accuracy.
Sound:
The keycaps you choose can also affect the sound of your mechanical keyboard. The material of the keycaps can make a big difference.
ABS keycaps are known for their high-pitched sound, while PBT keycaps are known for their deeper sound.
The profile of the keycaps can also affect the sound. Cherry profile keycaps are known for their clacky sound, while SA profile keycaps are known for their thocky sound.
Appearance:
The keycaps you choose can also affect the appearance of your mechanical keyboard. There are many different colors and styles of keycaps available, so you can choose keycaps that match your personal style.
You can also choose keycaps with special features, such as backlighting or legends in different languages.
What is the best keycap profile for gaming?
The best keycap profile for gaming is the Cherry profile. Cherry keycaps are sculpted, meaning that they are slightly taller in the middle and shorter at the edges. This makes them more comfortable to type on and allows for faster and more accurate key presses.
And, the Cherry profile is the most popular keycap profile, so there are a wide variety of keycaps available in this profile.
Here are some of the benefits of using Cherry keycaps for gaming:
- Sculpted profile: The sculpted profile of Cherry keycaps makes them more comfortable to type on and allows for faster and more accurate key presses.
- Wide variety of keycaps available: There are a wide variety of Cherry keycaps available, so you can find the perfect set to match your keyboard and your style.
- Durable: Cherry keycaps are made from high-quality materials and are designed to last.
Conclusion:
Both Cherry and OEM keycaps profiles have their own strengths and considerations. Cherry keycaps excel in terms of ergonomics, customization options, and eye-catching aesthetics. On the other hand, OEM keycaps offer a uniform typing experience, wider compatibility, and a more understated look.
Choosing between Cherry and OEM keycaps ultimately depends on your personal choice, typing style, and desired keyboard aesthetic. Consider the factors mentioned above and try out different profiles to determine which one suits your needs best.
Whether you prioritize ergonomics, customization, or compatibility, there is a keycap profile out there that will enhance your typing experience and make your mechanical keyboard truly your own.
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