PBTfans X-Ray Keyboard Review: Premium Keycaps Worth Buying?

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, enthusiasts know that the devil is in the details. From custom switches to artisan keycaps, every component contributes to the overall typing experience. One of the hottest trends in the mechanical keyboard world recently is the surge of premium keycap sets, and among these, the PBTfans X-Ray keycaps have gained significant attention. Sleek, translucent, and built to impress, the X-Ray keycaps offer a blend of aesthetic flair and solid functionality. But do they live up to the hype, and are they worth your hard-earned cash? Let’s dive into the details.

Overview: What Are PBTfans X-Ray Keycaps?

The PBTfans X-Ray is a set of semi-transparent keycaps designed for MX-style switches, primarily catering to mechanical keyboard hobbyists seeking something unique. Manufactured using high-quality PBT plastic, these keycaps are part of the PBTfans lineup produced by ePBT and distributed through vendors around the globe.

What immediately separates the X-Ray set from the competition is its frosted, see-through aesthetic. This design is not only visually stunning, particularly on RGB keyboards, but also functional for those who want to showcase their keyboard builds. Whether it’s the swirling colors of underglow or vibrant switch housings, the translucency enhances the overall look.

Key Specs & Highlights

• Material: High-quality PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate)
• Profile: Cherry
• Mount: MX Stem compatible
• Transparency: Semi-transparent (frosted design)
• Printing: Legends are dye-sublimated or blank depending on the option

It’s important to note that despite the clarity, these are not shine-through legends. So while the keycaps themselves transmit light, the legends won’t light up individually. This detail could be a deal-breaker for some, especially gamers or those used to traditional illuminated keycaps.

Design and Aesthetics

Design is where the PBTfans X-Ray truly shines. The frosted PBT material gives a futuristic, minimalistic vibe. They resemble the sterile clarity of an X-ray film, hence the name. On white or silver boards, they exude a clean Apple-esque look; when paired with dark or RGB-heavy keyboards, they serve as a canvas that glows and transforms.

There are several kits available, including the base kit, numpad kit, and specialized add-ons for different layouts like 40%, Alice, or UK ISO — making them highly versatile for custom mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Build Quality

Not all translucent keycaps are created equal—many budget versions on the market look nice in product photos but disappoint in person. With PBTfans X-Rays, you can expect truly premium quality:

• Consistent Texture: The frosted matte finish feels tactile without being rough, and remains smudge-resistant compared to ABS plastic caps.
• Durability: PBT is a far more durable material than ABS, and resists shine over extended use.
• Thick Walls: Each cap feels solid, exhibiting little to no flex when force is applied. That weight translates into a quieter, more muted bottom-out sound — a feature many typists enjoy.

Cherry profile fans will find themselves right at home; the sculpted rows and familiar slant help with finger ergonomics and muscle memory, particularly if you’re transitioning from another Cherry-set.

Typing & Sound Experience

Besides aesthetics, one of the most critical aspects of keycaps is the typing experience. Here’s where the X-Ray keycaps continue to impress, although with some considerations:

• Tactile Feel: The textured PBT surface creates a satisfying resistance under your fingertips, giving excellent feedback and reducing finger slips.
• Acoustic Quality: Thick PBT usually offers a deeper and more “thocky” sound compared to thin ABS caps, and the X-Rays are no exception. You get a rich, muffled bottom-out tone that changes slightly depending on your switch choice and board material.
• Fit and Tolerances: The stems fit snugly without being too tight. This is critical, particularly for hot-swappable boards, where poor design could lead to damaged switches.

That said, the semi-transparent nature may not appeal to everyone when viewed from a typing angle, especially if you’re used to high-contrast legends. For heavy typists or programmers who rely heavily on legends, consider opting for the version with printed legends rather than the blank variant.

Who Should Buy the PBTfans X-Ray Keycaps?

If you’re considering a keyboard upgrade and love the idea of transforming your aesthetic without compromising performance, the PBTfans X-Ray could be what you’re looking for. They are particularly appealing if you fall into any of the following categories:

• You own an RGB keyboard and want something that enhances lighting effects without looking tacky
• You enjoy customizing your setup and prefer the Cherry profile
• You want durable, well-manufactured keycaps that resist shine and wear over time

However, they may not be ideal if you prioritize backlit legends for typing in dark environments or need traditional layout legends for guidance during work or coding.

Price and Value

The PBTfans X-Ray set typically retails between $80 and $110 depending on the kit size and vendor. This places it in the mid-to-high range of custom keycap sets but still generally more affordable than some GMK caps.

When evaluating value, remember you’re not just buying keycaps — you’re investing in an elevated typing experience and a stunning aesthetic upgrade. Many users report increased typing comfort and fewer distractions due to the textured PBT surface and muted sound profile.

Final Verdict: Are They Worth Buying?

In a hobby where appearance and feel often go hand-in-hand, the PBTfans X-Ray keyboard keycaps deliver on multiple fronts. They’re undeniably beautiful, functionally solid, and thoughtfully packaged across several kits to support a range of layouts.

Pros:

• Premium PBT material with excellent texture and durability
• Stunning translucent design
• Great sound profile and typing comfort
• Extensive layout compatibility

Cons:

• No shine-through legends (can hinder nighttime typing)
• May be too niche in look for traditional office environments
• Higher price point compared to entry-level or stock options

So, are they worth it? For most keyboard enthusiasts — absolutely. If you’re looking for a unique, high-quality set to take your setup to the next level, the PBTfans X-Ray delivers in style, performance, and satisfaction.

Ready to give your keyboard a translucent twist?