Akko
AKKO Carbon Retro Keycaps Set
Best retro-inspired keycap set for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking durable customization.
Elevate your typing experience with the AKKO Carbon Retro Keycap Set, inspired by a classic carbon aesthetic. Choose between the comprehensive 229-key Cherry Profile or the 158-key ASA Profile, both crafted from durable PBT double-shot material for long-lasting legend clarity. This set adheres to a standard ANSI layout, offering a comfortable and familiar typing feel. While large keys might need minor adjustments for non-standard layouts, Cherry-style stabilizers are recommended for a seamless installation. Enjoy a retro look with modern durability.
$59.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
29
/ 6542
#29 in Keyboard Keys & Caps
Price vs Category Average
+40%
Above average
Material
PBT Plastic
/ PBT Plastic
Who it's for
- Retro enthusiasts seeking a nostalgic vintage computing aesthetic
- Heavy typists needing long-lasting, oil-resistant key surfaces
- Budget-conscious builders requiring broad layout compatibility
Who should skip it
- Typists accustomed to the standard, lower-profile Cherry feel
- Audiophiles chasing a deep, premium thocky sound signature
- Perfectionists demanding flawless legend alignment and sharpness
Performance breakdown
Material Durability
Double-shot PBT construction ensures legends remain crisp through years of typing.
Layout Versatility
Extensive key counts provide excellent coverage for most standard ANSI boards.
Aesthetic Appeal
Classic carbon colorway delivers a sophisticated, timeless look for any desk.
Typing Ergonomics
Dual profile options allow users to choose their preferred tactile height.
Surface Texture
Matte finish provides a premium, non-slip feel during extended typing sessions.
Installation Ease
Standard MX-style stems ensure quick, hassle-free mounting on most mechanical switches.
Key Specs
Material
PBT Plastic
ASA Profile Key Count
158 Keys
Cherry Profile Key Count
229 Keys
Printing Method
Double-shot
Layout Compatibility
Standard ANSI
Backlight Compatibility
No
Switch Compatibility
Cherry MX Style
Surface Finish
Matte
Features
- Durable PBT double-shot legends
- Resistant to friction and shining
- Choice of ASA or Cherry profile
- ASA profile mimics OEM height
- Standard ANSI layout compatibility
- Retro carbon theme aesthetic
- Matte surface finish
- English (US) legend language
What customers say
The AKKO Carbon Retro Keycaps Set is highly praised for its exceptional value and premium aesthetic. Customers consistently love the deep black, warm gray, and orange color scheme, noting its visual quality rivals much pricier sets. Satisfaction is driven by the thick PBT material, which delivers a satisfying sound and excellent durability against shine. While the unique ASA profile may require a short adjustment, many find its sculpted comfort addictive. The comprehensive kit ensures broad layout compatibility, solidifying its status as a top budget to mid-tier option. This set successfully delivers a premium look and feel without the premium cost.
Know before you buy
The ASA profile is taller and mimics the height of standard OEM keycaps, while the Cherry profile is shorter and generally preferred by enthusiasts for a more sculpted, ergonomic feel. Your choice depends on whether you prefer a traditional typing height or a lower, more modern profile.
These keycaps are compatible with any keyboard using Cherry MX-style cross-stem switches. They are designed for standard ANSI layouts, so they will fit most mainstream mechanical keyboards.
No, these keycaps are not shine-through. The PBT double-shot construction is solid, meaning the legends will not allow light from your keyboard's LEDs to pass through them.
Because these keycaps use a double-shot molding process, the legends are physically molded into the plastic rather than printed on top. This ensures they will never fade or wear away, even with heavy daily use.
The set is designed to work with standard Cherry-style PCB-mount stabilizers. If your keyboard uses a non-standard layout or proprietary stabilizer types, you may encounter fitment issues with the larger keys.
The matte finish provides a slightly textured, dry feel that helps prevent the 'greasy' shine that develops on cheaper ABS plastic keycaps over time. It offers a stable grip and a premium, professional aesthetic.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$60