KBDFans PBTFans Retro 100 Icon Base Keycap Set
Best retro-inspired keycap set for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking custom aesthetics.
Enhance your mechanical keyboard with the KBDFans PBTFans Retro 100 Icon Base Keycap Set. This 149-key set features a classic Cherry profile and is constructed from durable PBT material using a double-shot molding process for longevity. The legends are UV printed, and the modifiers showcase unique icons instead of traditional text, offering a distinct retro aesthetic. This set includes stepped and non-stepped modifier keys, as well as barred and non-barred alpha keys, ensuring broad compatibility. It also comes with one red translucent key for a touch of personalization. The keycaps are designed for MX-style stems and are packaged in a convenient 3-layer ABS keycap tray.
$90.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
3131
/ 6542
#3131 in Keyboard Keys & Caps
Price vs Category Average
+110%
Above average
Profile
Cherry
/ Cherry
Who it's for
- Desktop enthusiasts seeking a clean, nostalgic, and unique visual style
- Heavy typists prioritizing long-term durability and a premium textured feel
- Minimalists desiring a sleek, uncluttered, and sophisticated keyboard aesthetic
Who should skip it
- Beginners or hunt-and-peck typists relying on traditional alphanumeric legends
- Budget-conscious hobbyists looking for more affordable keycap alternatives
- Users preferring standard, highly legible, or conventional keycap designs
Performance breakdown
Material Durability
High-quality PBT construction resists shine and wear over extended daily use.
Compatibility Range
Extensive 149-key count covers almost any standard or custom keyboard layout.
Legend Longevity
Double-shot molding ensures legends remain crisp and clear for years.
Aesthetic Appeal
Icon-based modifiers deliver a clean, nostalgic look for retro enthusiasts.
Typing Profile
Classic Cherry profile provides a familiar and comfortable typing experience.
Storage Quality
The included 3-layer ABS tray offers premium protection and organized storage.
Key Specs
Profile
Cherry
Material
PBT
Stem Type
MX
Print Method
Double Shot
Keycap Qty
149
Backlit
No
Language
English
Physical Layout
ISO
Features
- Durable PBT construction for long-lasting use.
- Double-shot molding ensures legends won't fade.
- Retro design with unique icon modifiers.
- Includes a variety of modifier and alpha keys for customization.
- UV printed sublegends for enhanced readability.
- Comes with one red translucent key for personalization.
- Packaged in a 3-layer ABS keycap tray for protection.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the exceptional quality and distinctive design of the KBDFans PBTFans Retro 100 Icon Base Keycap Set. The PBT material and doubleshot legends are frequently highlighted for their durability and crispness, ensuring a premium feel and long lasting aesthetic. Users appreciate the unique retro icon design, which adds a nostalgic yet modern touch to their keyboards. Many find the keycaps' thickness contributes positively to typing sound and overall tactile experience. The set is often considered a worthwhile investment for its build and visual appeal.
Know before you buy
These keycaps are designed for keyboards with MX-style stems, which are the standard for most mechanical keyboards. With 149 keys included, the set offers broad compatibility for various layouts, including ISO configurations.
The Cherry profile is shorter and more sculpted than the standard OEM profile, making it a favorite for typing comfort and ergonomics. Its lower height often results in a slightly deeper, more pleasant sound profile.
No, these keycaps are not designed for backlighting. The PBT material is opaque, so light will not shine through the legends.
Double-shot molding involves injecting two layers of plastic to form the keycap and the legend. This ensures that the legends will never fade or wear off, even after years of heavy use.
The red translucent key is an aesthetic accent piece included for personalization. It allows you to add a pop of color to your board, typically used for the Escape key or another functional key of your choice.
Instead of traditional text like 'Shift' or 'Enter,' these keycaps use minimalist icons to represent the function of the modifier keys. This creates a cleaner, more retro-inspired aesthetic for your keyboard.
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$90