Keycap Profiles Explained: Cherry, OEM, SA, XDA, DSA and More
Updated
A keycap profile is the shape and height of a keyboard's keycaps. Sculpted profiles like Cherry, OEM and SA give each row a different height and angle, so the keys curve toward your fingers. Uniform profiles like DSA, XDA and MOA make every row the same shape, so any key can go in any position. Profile changes how typing feels, how the board looks, and a little of how it sounds.
Common keycap profiles compared
| Profile | Height | Shape | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry | Low | Sculpted, cylindrical top | The most popular enthusiast profile |
| OEM | Medium | Sculpted, cylindrical top | The default on most prebuilt keyboards |
| SA | Tall | Sculpted, spherical top | Retro look, deep and full sound |
| MT3 | Tall | Sculpted, deep spherical dish | Typewriter-inspired, very scooped |
| KAT | Medium-tall | Sculpted, spherical top | Between Cherry and SA |
| DSA | Low | Uniform, spherical top | Flat and compact |
| XDA | Low-medium | Uniform, wide flat top | Large top surface, easy to rearrange |
| MOA | Medium | Uniform, rounded top | Rounded, slightly taller uniform option |
Heights are relative. Exact dimensions vary by manufacturer, and a "Cherry profile" set from one maker can differ slightly from another.
Sculpted vs uniform
Sculpted profiles angle each row toward your fingers, a bit like stadium seating. Many people find them more comfortable for touch typing and they help your fingers find the home row. The catch is that a key only fits the row it was made for.
Uniform profiles use the same shape on every row. That makes it easy to rearrange keys for alternative layouts like Colemak or for ortholinear and split boards. Some people find the flat rows less comfortable over long sessions.
Cherry vs OEM
These two are the most common. OEM is a bit taller and is what most prebuilt keyboards ship with. Cherry is lower and is the most popular profile in the custom keyboard hobby. If your keyboard came with OEM keycaps and you want something that feels a little lower and more compact, Cherry is the usual next step.
SA and other tall profiles
SA keycaps are tall, sculpted and spherical. They look striking and sound deep and full, but take some getting used to, and a wrist rest helps. MT3 is similar with an even deeper dish. Tall profiles aren't for everyone, but people who like them tend to love them.
Does keycap profile affect sound?
Yes, though less than material and thickness. Taller profiles have more space inside and tend to sound fuller and deeper; low, flat profiles tend to sound a little higher and tighter. Material and wall thickness still matter more; see do keycaps affect sound and PBT vs ABS.
Which profile should you choose?
- Not sure? Cherry. It's the most popular for a reason, and sets are easy to find.
- Want to rearrange keys or use an unusual layout? A uniform profile like XDA, DSA or MOA.
- Want a retro look and a deep sound? SA or MT3, ideally with a wrist rest.
- Coming from a prebuilt? You probably have OEM already; try Cherry if you want lower.
Before buying, check that the set includes the key sizes your keyboard needs, especially the bottom row.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular keycap profile?
Cherry profile is the most popular among enthusiasts. OEM is the most common on prebuilt keyboards.
What's the difference between Cherry and OEM profile?
Both are sculpted. OEM is a little taller; Cherry is lower and feels more compact.
What is the difference between sculpted and uniform keycaps?
Sculpted keycaps have a different height and angle per row, so each key only fits its own row. Uniform keycaps are the same shape on every row, so any key can go anywhere.
Do keycap profiles affect sound?
Somewhat. Taller profiles tend to sound fuller and deeper, low flat ones a little higher and tighter. Material and thickness matter more.