PBTfans Retro 100 Keycap Set
Best choice for enthusiasts seeking a nostalgic, vintage-inspired mechanical keyboard aesthetic.
Embrace a vintage aesthetic with the PBTfans Retro 100 Keycap Set, designed by Mars. Inspired by the 1982 Canon AS-100 microcomputer, this set brings a nostalgic charm to your setup. Crafted from durable PBT plastic, these keycaps feature a classic Cherry profile and are produced using a combination of double-shot and dye-sublimation methods for crisp, long-lasting legends. This set is compatible with Cherry MX switches and their style clones, offering a tactile upgrade for your mechanical keyboard. It comes packaged in a 3-layer ABS keycap tray with a designed cover for convenient storage and protection.
$18.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
1604
/ 6542
#1604 in Keyboard Keys & Caps
Price vs Category Average
-58%
Below average
Material
PBT Plastic
/ PBT Plastic
Who it's for
- Nostalgia seekers wanting a classic vintage computing aesthetic
- Typists preferring a textured feel and long-lasting material
- Users demanding sharp legends that resist fading over time
Who should skip it
- Impulse shoppers needing immediate shipping and constant stock availability
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for affordable entry-level options
- Keyboard owners with north-facing switches seeking perfect compatibility
Performance breakdown
Material Durability
High-quality PBT plastic resists shine and wear over extended daily use.
Legend Clarity
Hybrid production methods ensure sharp, fade-resistant characters for years of typing.
Typing Ergonomics
The classic Cherry profile offers a familiar, comfortable curve for enthusiasts.
Aesthetic Authenticity
Faithful retro styling captures the iconic Canon AS-100 microcomputer vibe perfectly.
Switch Compatibility
Standard MX-style stems ensure seamless installation on most mechanical keyboard builds.
Storage Convenience
Included 3-layer tray provides excellent protection and organized long-term storage.
Key Specs
Material
PBT Plastic
Profile
Cherry Profile
Printing Method
Double-shot, Dye-sublimation
Layout Compatibility
ANSI
Switch Compatibility
Cherry MX Style
Legend Language
English (US)
Surface Finish
Matte
Legend Style
Retro, Minimalist
Features
- Retro-inspired design based on Canon AS-100 microcomputer
- Durable PBT material for longevity
- Crisp, long-lasting legends via doubleshot and dye-sublimation
- Classic Cherry profile for comfortable typing
- Compatible with Cherry MX style switches
- Nostalgic aesthetic for a unique look
- Designed by Mars for distinctive style
- Convenient storage with included tray and cover
What customers say
The PBTfans Retro 100 Keycap Set earns high praise for its quality and nostalgic design. Customers love the colorway, noting it perfectly captures a vintage computing aesthetic without being dull. The PBT material quality is a major highlight; reviewers consistently praise its substantial thickness and satisfying textured feel, enhancing the typing experience. Legends are crisp and consistent due to excellent dye sublimation. The comprehensive kit offers broad compatibility across various popular layouts, adding significant value. While priced at a premium, buyers feel the superior build quality and well-executed design justify the investment. This set is celebrated as a durable, visually striking choice that successfully merges classic appeal with modern manufacturing.
Know before you buy
These keycaps are designed for Cherry MX switches and any other switches that use the standard MX-style cross-shaped stem mount.
The Cherry profile is widely considered the industry standard for mechanical keyboards. It features a sculpted, ergonomic shape that is slightly shorter than the OEM profile, making it comfortable for both long typing sessions and gaming.
No. Because these keycaps are produced using a combination of double-shot and dye-sublimation methods, the legends are integrated into the plastic itself rather than printed on the surface, ensuring they remain crisp and legible for years.
This set is specifically designed for the standard ANSI layout. If your keyboard uses non-standard bottom row sizes or unique key sizes, you may encounter compatibility issues.
PBT plastic is known for its durability and resistance to the 'shine' that develops on ABS keycaps over time. It provides a slightly textured, matte finish and generally produces a deeper, more resonant sound profile compared to thinner plastics.
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$18