If you’re an enthusiast in the mechanical keyboard community, you’ve likely heard the buzz around PBTfans X-Ray keycaps. Known for their groundbreaking translucent design and PBT construction, the PBTfans X-Ray keycaps are more than just an aesthetic upgrade—they’re a tactile and visual experience that aims to deliver both form and function. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the design, feel, and overall experience of typing on a keyboard outfitted with the X-Ray keycaps.
What Makes PBTfans X-Ray Unique?
The PBTfans X-Ray keycap set is part of a growing trend of semi-transparent and full-transparent keycaps designed for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. With RGB lighting becoming a standard feature in most modern mechanical keyboards, keycap manufacturers have begun to explore materials and styles that allow for better light diffusion.
What sets PBTfans X-Ray apart is its construction material—PBT plastic—known for its durability, texture, and resistance to shine over time. Unlike many clear or translucent keycaps made from ABS plastic, the X-Ray keycaps maintain a matte finish and a more premium feel.
The Design: Stylish Transparency
On first glance, the PBTfans X-Ray keycaps immediately catch your eye. Each key is milky-white with a semi-translucent finish that allows your keyboard’s RGB lighting to shine through with a soft, diffused glow. This balanced transparency creates a beautiful aura that doesn’t overpower the key legends or compromise the readability.
An additional design perk is its stunning uniform profile, typically an OEM profile, which is ideal for both gaming and everyday typing. The legends are dye-subbed—subtly etched into the keycaps—meaning they won’t fade over time, a common issue with printed legends on ABS caps.
Other notable design features include:
- Full ANSI layout support – Compatible with most custom and standard layout keyboards.
- Legible legends – Even when unlit, the legends are easy to read.
- Smooth, yet grippy surface – Provides a satisfying tactile feel with reduced slipperiness.
Build Quality and Materials
One of the standout aspects of the X-Ray keycap set is its use of PBT plastic, which has several advantages over ABS:
- Higher durability – Less prone to becoming shiny or worn over time.
- Better heat resistance – Maintains its texture and color under extended use.
- Heavier feel – Provides a solid typing experience due to increased weight and thickness.
The thickness of the PBTfans X-Ray keycaps enhances keystrokes, making each type feel weighty and deliberate. For those who enjoy a deeper, more satisfying sound profile, this thick PBT plastic delivers exactly that—providing a ‘thock’ that keyboard lovers often crave.
Typing Experience: Feel and Acoustics
Typing on the X-Ray set is genuinely enjoyable. The keycaps sit comfortably under your fingertips, thanks to their slightly textured top that strikes a balance between smoothness and grip. Whether you’re typing long essays or indulging in an extended gaming session, the texture offers just the right resistance to prevent fingers from slipping.
Besides tactile feedback, sound plays a major role in a satisfying typing experience. The PBTfans X-Ray set does not disappoint. The thick walls of each cap amplify the richness of mechanical switches, particularly tactile and linear ones. You’ll notice a deeper, more resonant sound with each keystroke, especially when used on well-dampened aluminum or gasket-mounted boards.
It’s worth noting that while the X-Ray works beautifully with RGB, it may not produce the same level of vibrancy as fully transparent ABS keycaps. However, that is a small trade-off considering the superior build quality and long-term durability of PBT plastic.
Compatibility and Installation
Installing the PBTfans X-Ray keycaps is straightforward, with support for a wide range of layouts and boards. The set includes a generous number of extra caps, ensuring compatibility with:
- Full-size keyboards
- TKLs (Tenkeyless)
- 65% and 75% layouts
- Custom compact layouts
The stems are cross-shaped and tightly molded to fit firmly on Cherry MX and compatible switches, including Gateron, Kailh, and others. No wobble, no fuss—just a snug fit all around.
Real-World Use: Everyday Productivity & Gaming
In a real-world setting, the X-Ray keycaps excel just as much in the office as they do in a gaming setup. The soft translucency lends itself well to a professional look during the day, while transforming into an RGB spectacle as the lights dim—striking a perfect balance between formality and flair.
Gamers will appreciate the durability during rapid keystrokes and the comfortable contour of each key, which aids in long sessions. Meanwhile, writers and coders will revel in the consistent typing rhythm that these keycaps encourage.
That said, their unique appearance might not cater to everyone’s personal taste—especially those who prefer minimalistic or retro aesthetics. But if you’re looking to blend performance with futuristic visuals, the PBTfans X-Ray is a top pick.
Price and Value
Compared to other premium keycap sets, the PBTfans X-Ray sits in the mid-to-high price tier, usually retailing between $80–$100 depending on availability and vendor. While this may seem high relative to budget sets, you’re paying for:
- Durable, thick PBT plastic
- Aesthetic versatility for both RGB and non-RGB keyboards
- Compatibility with various layouts
- A sound profile and texture that’s hard to match
Considering these advantages, the PBTfans X-Ray keycap set offers excellent value for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking long-lasting and stylish customization.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Durable and thick PBT construction
- Excellent light diffusion for RGB setups
- Comfortable typing experience with premium feel
- Generous compatibility across layouts
Cons:
- Slightly muted RGB compared to fully transparent ABS keycaps
- Higher price point
- Design may not appeal to all preferences
Final Verdict
The PBTfans X-Ray keycap set successfully delivers a modern, stylish look without compromising on quality or performance. From the texture of the PBT plastic to the soothing light diffusion, the X-Ray gives your keyboard a futuristic edge while maintaining tactile comfort for day-to-day usage.
Whether you’re a typist, gamer, or mechanical keyboard collector, the X-Ray set brings something unique to the table. It’s a worthy investment for anyone who appreciates both craftsmanship and visual appeal in their peripherals.
So, is it worth it? Absolutely—provided you value feel, durability, and tasteful design just as much as aesthetics. The PBTfans X-Ray keycaps manage to walk that delicate line with elegance and functionality.
