I decided to build a keyboard instead of buying one because I just can't find one that I truly like... So I delved deep into everything keyboard!
So far I've been using standard keycaps of Ducky Shine 3 and some new model of Shine (tried at a friend's). They're fine. But if I'm building a keyboard, I want to choose great keycaps, not fine keycaps.
What are my choices? I know that PBT is the material I should go for as opposed to ABS. I don't think there are any other materials that are any better?
I'm getting GMMK plate, so I only need keycaps and switches. That's the cheapest option and it seems to be well built. I'd prefer a bit different layout but that would raise the price by extra €150-200 because I'd need to get a casing, plate, etc separately. I'm going for their TKL option. I couldn't stand ISO format because of my typing style, so I'm going for ANSI.
I know there are different keycap profiles but I have no possibility to try them: OEM, Cherry, DSA, XDA, SA. But I really don't know which ones I should get and why - I've heard that SA is a good choice, and Cherry and OEM are the standard ones.
I'm going with clicky Kailh switches if it matters. And the GMMK plate will have LED, although I'm not 100% if I want to use it or not. I probably will because I like low lighting in my work room. Although high contrast keycaps might work too - I really love the old school keyboards. I haven't decided yet.
What are your suggestions? Any other materials? Which profile? Anything else that would help me choose keycaps?
Additionally, I've been having a hard time finding keycaps to buy within the EU (excluding UK) - customs add 50% to the price, and I'd prefer to not spend more than €50 on keycaps.