Keycap Profiles Comparison: Cherry vs OEM vs SA

Are you a newbie in the world of keycaps, constantly seeing terms like OEM, Cherry, and SA and scratching your head in confusion? You're not alone! These are actually shorthand for some of the most common keycap profiles out there. In the vast universe of mechanical keyboards, keycap profiles come in all shapes and sizes. Today, we're diving deep into the most popular ones: Cherry, OEM, SA, and more, to uncover the secrets behind each and help you find your perfect match.

The Cherry profile, often referred to as the "stock" or "original" profile, gets its name from the renowned German company, Cherry Corporation. Founded by Walter L. Cherry in 1953 in Illinois, USA, Cherry Corporation is a true pioneer in the mechanical keyboard industry. They revolutionized the way we type by refining mechanical keyboard designs, making them lighter, more durable, and incredibly comfortable. Their Cherry MX series switches? Game-changers that have left an indelible mark on the keyboard world.

Cherry originally used this keycap profile on their own keyboards, and as the mechanical keyboard trend caught on, it became a widely adopted standard. With individual keycaps measuring around 8 - 10mm in height, the Cherry profile strikes a sweet spot in terms of ergonomics. It's designed to keep your fingers and wrists feeling fresh even during those marathon typing sessions.

When it comes to typing feel, the Cherry profile's longer key travel offers a satisfying bounce and a distinct tactile bump. Every keystroke provides clear feedback, helping you type faster and more accurately. Whether you're a writer pounding out thousands of words a day or a programmer typing lines of code, this profile's excellent rebound and tactile feedback can significantly reduce finger fatigue. Think of it as a trusty old friend—reliable, comfortable, and always ready to help you get the job done.

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. The OEM profile is quite similar to the Cherry profile but with a slight height advantage. Here's the scoop: when the Cherry profile became a sensation, many manufacturers wanted to replicate its success. But to avoid patent issues, they developed the OEM profile, which soon became the go-to choice for mass-produced keyboards.

The OEM profile is the most common and versatile keycap profile in the mechanical keyboard scene. It's known for its ergonomic stepped design and universal compatibility. Standing at around 10 - 12mm, which is 2 - 3mm taller than the Cherry profile, OEM keycaps fit like a glove on almost any standard keyboard layout—be it a full-sized 104-key, a compact 87-key, or a tiny 61-key. Big names like Razer, Logitech, and ikbc, as well as third-party keycap manufacturers such as GMK and Leopold, frequently use the OEM profile.

For beginners, the OEM profile is a no-brainer. Since it's the most prevalent, you won't have to worry about getting used to an odd feel. Just swap out your stock keycaps, and you're good to go! Whether you're upgrading an existing keyboard or building your own custom masterpiece, the OEM profile is a safe bet. It's the jack-of-all-trades of keycap profiles, offering a balanced and comfortable typing experience that suits both casual and long-term users.

The SA profile is another popular standard in the keycap world. SA stands for "Spherical All," and once you lay eyes on these keycaps, you'll understand why. They're like little works of art that bring a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of personality to your keyboard.

• Tall and Proud: At a height of 14 - 16mm, SA keycaps are among the tallest in the game. This extra height isn't just for show—it affects the typing feel and sound in unique ways.

• Unique Shape: Picture a keycap with a spherical, concave top and a rounded side profile. That's SA for you! The deep concave surface hugs your fingertips, providing a cushioned and comfortable typing experience that many enthusiasts swear by.

• Loud and Clear: Thanks to their height and internal space, SA keycaps produce a rich, resonant sound when you type. Some people lovingly call it the "wooden fish sound." However, this also means that any imperfections in your switches or stabilizers, like wobbling or wire noise, will be more noticeable.

• Retro Aesthetic: SA keycaps are a throwback to the classic typewriters of yesteryear. Their vintage look makes them a favorite for custom keyboard builds, adding a touch of old-school charm to modern setups.

But hold your horses—while SA keycaps have a lot to offer, they're not without their quirks. Due to their height, you'll likely need a wrist rest to type comfortably. And if you're a gamer looking for lightning-fast keystrokes, the SA profile might not be your best bet. However, if you value typing comfort, love the nostalgic vibe, or simply want to make a statement with your keyboard, SA keycaps are definitely worth a look.

The following image provides an intuitive visual representation of the different heights and appearances of Cherry, OEM, and SA keycap profiles.

So there you have it—the lowdown on Cherry, OEM, and SA keycap profiles! Each has its own charm and caters to different preferences. Whether you're after a classic feel, all-around versatility, or a retro aesthetic, there's a keycap profile out there for you. And if you're itching to upgrade your keyboard or explore unique artisan keycaps, don't hesitate to check out our online store. We've got an extensive collection of keycaps in various profiles and styles, ready to transform your keyboard into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Let's unlock the full potential of your typing experience together! →www.petitkeycaps.com