The Complete Guide to Pudding Keycaps (and Why You Need Them for RGB Keyboards)
The Complete Guide to Pudding Keycaps (and Why You Need Them for RGB Keyboards)
If you’ve ever admired a mechanical keyboard glowing like a neon sign, chances are you’ve seen pudding keycaps in action. These caps are one of the most impactful upgrades for RGB keyboards: they turn subtle per-key illumination into a full-board glow.
In this guide, you’ll learn what pudding keycaps are, how they work, what to watch out for, and the best sets to buy right now—plus quick install tips and an FAQ.
What Are Pudding Keycaps?
Pudding keycaps pair an opaque or semi-opaque top with translucent sides. The name comes from the “pudding cup” look: a solid “pudding” top sitting over a milky/clear “cup”.
Quick context:
- Standard keycaps: only the legend (letters/numbers) may glow, walls are opaque.
- Shine-through caps: translucent legends; walls still opaque.
- Pudding keycaps: translucent walls + shine-through legends → dramatic side-glow.
Result: your RGB isn’t trapped under the caps—it blooms outwards for a brighter, more cinematic look.
How Pudding Keycaps Work
Most pudding sets use double-shot moulding:
- Translucent poly layer forms the cap’s sides (and often legend insets).
- Opaque layer forms the top surface around the legend.
Because legends are formed as separate plastic rather than ink, they stay crisp and won’t wear off, while the translucent sides let light spill out at wide angles.
Why Enthusiasts Love Them
- Maximum RGB: nothing showcases lighting like pudding sides.
- Instant aesthetic upgrade: gamer, cyberpunk, or cosy-neon desk vibes.
- Great in the dark: easier visual orientation without harsh hotspots.
- Affordable transformation: many sets come in under £30–£40.
- Streamer-friendly: keyboards pop on camera.
If you’ve invested in a hot-swap RGB board, pudding caps are the fastest way to see the value of that lighting.
Things to Watch Out For
Layout: ANSI vs ISO (UK)
- ANSI (US) and ISO (UK) have different Enter, left Shift, and some bottom-row keys.
- Many pudding sets are ANSI-only. If you’re in the UK, look specifically for ISO-UK coverage.
Profile: OEM vs Cherry
- OEM is taller and what most stock boards use.
- Cherry profile is a little shorter and preferred by some enthusiasts.
- Mixing profiles can change feel—pick one and stick with it.
Material: ABS vs PBT
- ABS: cheaper, but can get glossy “shine” over time.
- PBT: more durable, textured feel, resists shine.
Recommendation: go with PBT if you can.
Switch Orientation: North vs South Facing
- North-facing LEDs can make some Cherry-profile legends look dimmer.
- Side-glow still works fine either way.
Font & Aesthetic
- Fonts range from bold gamer style to minimalist. Decide what fits your desk setup.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Standard Caps | Shine-Through Caps | Pudding Caps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side glow | None | None | Strong |
| Legend clarity | Varies | Good | Very good |
| RGB brightness feel | Low–Medium | Medium | High |
| Price (typical) | Low–Medium | Medium | Medium |
Best Pudding Keycaps to Buy (2025)
⭐ HyperX Pudding Keycaps (PBT)
- The set that popularised the look.
- PBT, crisp legends, black or white tops.
- Check price →
⭐ SteelSeries PrismCaps (PBT)
- Premium feel, sharp legends, great diffusion.
- Buy direct →
⭐ Glorious Pudding Keycaps
- Smooth texture, bold font, strong side-glow.
- Shop Glorious →
⭐ Keychron PBT Pudding-Style
- Good ISO-UK support, ideal for Keychron boards.
- View Keychron →
💸 Budget Amazon Sets
- Many third-party sets under £20.
- Quality varies—check reviews for legend sharpness and ISO coverage.
- Browse Amazon →
Installing Pudding Keycaps
- Power off or disconnect your keyboard.
- Use a keycap puller to remove old caps.
- Align new cap over the switch stem, press down firmly.
- Seat stabilised keys (space, Enter, Shift) carefully.
- Reconnect, set RGB to max, and enjoy.
Who Should Buy Pudding Keycaps?
- RGB fans who want their lighting to shine.
- Streamers/content creators who need visual pop.
- First-time builders looking for a wow-factor under £40.
- Anyone refreshing an old board without replacing it.
Common Questions
Do pudding caps affect typing feel?
Not directly. Feel depends on profile and material, not the “pudding” design.
Will they fit my keyboard?
If your board uses MX-style stems, yes. Watch for odd layouts (65%/75%) and ANSI vs ISO.
Which looks brighter: black-top or white-top?
- White-top: brighter, airy look.
- Black-top: more contrast, moodier.
ABS or PBT?
PBT lasts longer and resists shine. ABS is fine for budget builds.
Final Thoughts
For RGB keyboards, pudding keycaps are the sweetest upgrade per pound. They showcase your lighting, refresh your setup, and cost far less than a new board.
Recommended starting point:
- HyperX PBT Pudding → safe, proven choice.
- SteelSeries PrismCaps → premium finish.
- Keychron PBT Pudding → especially if you need ISO-UK.
Happy glowing! 🌈⌨️