What are Cherry Profile Keycaps?
Cherry Profile keycaps are keycaps whose height is based on the original mechanical keyboards from the German company Cherry.
Unlike flat profiles like DSA or XDA, Cherry profiles offer a curved shape that supports a more natural hand position and thus provides greater comfort, especially during extended use. They are lower than OEM keycaps but higher than low-profile versions, offering a balanced blend of ergonomics and performance.
Main features of the Cherry profile
1. Sculpted profile
Cherry keycaps vary in height across each row, usually in the R1-R1-R2-R3-R4-R4 layout (R stands for the respective key row). The bottom row starts with R1, and the heights increase toward the upper rows, forming an ergonomically curved arrangement—ideal for reducing finger fatigue.
2. Lower height than OEM profile
Individual Cherry keycaps are usually between 9.5 mm and 12.5 mm high, which is about 1-2 mm lower than standard OEM keycaps.
3. High compatibility
Due to the widespread use of Cherry switches, keycaps with this profile fit most mechanical keyboards and are particularly versatile.
4. Pleasant sound
Cherry keycaps produce a more muted sound when typing because the interior is smaller, creating less resonance. Many users appreciate the deeper, richer sound—especially when combined with high-quality materials like PBT plastic.
5. Popular with custom keyboards
As a pioneer in mechanical keyboards, Cherry has significantly shaped the standard dimensions for keycaps. Therefore, Cherry Profile keycaps are widely used in the custom keyboard community and are considered a quasi-standard in terms of compatibility and quality.
Black & Gold 5087S ISO DE Keyboard with Cherry Keycaps
Advantages and disadvantages of Cherry Profile keycaps
Advantages
- Ergonomic, sculpted design : Reduces strain on your fingers during extended typing.
- Deep, muted sound : Many enthusiasts find it pleasant and high-quality.
- Popular in the custom keyboard sector : high compatibility and wide range.
- Suitable for typing and gaming : Good balance of comfort and responsiveness.
- A variety of colors and designs : Numerous sets and styles available.
Disadvantages
- Less individual : For users who are looking for particularly unusual or personalized keycaps, the Cherry profile sometimes seems too simple.
- Visually less striking : Rather reserved compared to eye-catching profiles such as SA or MT3.
- Not ideal for strong acoustic feedback : Those who prefer a particularly loud, "clicky" sound when typing may not be entirely satisfied.
Cherry profiles offer high comfort and a popular sound, but are less suitable for users who place a high emphasis on personalization or loud sound.
Are Cherry keycaps good for typing?
Yes – Cherry Profile keycaps are excellent for typing, especially for users who type a lot and for long periods of time.
Why?
- Comfortable hand position : The sculpted profile keeps hands and fingers in a natural position – ideal for longer sessions.
- More efficient typing : The moderate height and graduated rows make it easier to find precise keys.
- Quiet, deep sound : Less typing noise makes Cherry keycaps the perfect choice for quiet environments (e.g. in the office).
- Wide Compatibility : Fits most standard layouts with Cherry MX switches – easy to swap and customize.
Are Cherry keycaps good for gaming?
Yes – Cherry profiles are also a very good choice for gaming , especially if you value comfort, response time and precision.
Gaming advantages:
- Faster response : The lower height compared to OEM or SA profiles allows for faster keystrokes.
- Ergonomic design : Reduces fatigue during longer gaming sessions.
- Stable keystroke : Due to the lower position on the switch, the keys wobble less – an advantage for precise inputs, e.g. in FPS or MOBA games.
- Pleasant sound profile : The muted sound is more pleasant for many gamers – especially with PBT keycaps.
Are Cherry keycaps better than OEM?
It all depends on your personal preferences and areas of application.
| Cherry profile | OEM profile |
| Lower & more ergonomic | Slightly higher, but widespread |
| Calm, deep sound | Slightly brighter, louder when typing |
| Sculpted line profile | Less pronounced |
| Popular in custom keyboards | Standard in many finished models |
Cherry profiles are ideal for users who type or game heavily, while OEM keycaps are a solid, standardized option for those who don't have specific requirements.
Are Cherry keycaps low profile?
No, Cherry Profile keycaps are not considered low-profile keycaps.
| feature | Cherry profile | Low-profile keycaps |
| Height | Medium-low | Very low |
| ergonomics | Sculpted, comfortable | Flat or slightly curved |
| Typing feel | Natural, tactile | Shorter stroke, faster release |
| Suitable for | Typing & Gaming | Ultra-thin keyboards, mobility |
Why are Cherry keycaps so popular?
Cherry keycaps are very popular because they offer an ergonomic, comfortable typing and gaming experience .
Compared to OEM keycaps, they are slightly lower and have a sculpted shape that reduces finger fatigue and makes typing more comfortable.
Further advantages:
- Durable PBT material : More resistant to wear and discoloration.
- Pleasant sound : Deep, rich sound – especially with PBT keycaps.
- High compatibility : Suitable for most mechanical keyboards with Cherry MX switches.
The best Cherry Profile keycaps
BOW ISO FR keycap set
Best choice for AZERTY keyboards
Highlights:
- French AZERTY layout
- Clean, minimalist BOW design
- High compatibility with ISO layouts
- Durable PBT material
- Durable print through dye-sublimation
If you're looking for a keycap set in the ISO-FR layout, the BOW ISO FR AZERTY set is an excellent choice—simple, high-quality, and perfect for French keyboards.
Akko Canned PBT Keycaps
Best choice for thrifty shoppers
Highlights:
- Attractive price
- High-quality PBT material
- Double-shot technology for long-lasting legends
- 108-key set with wide compatibility
For those looking for high-quality yet affordable Cherry Profile keycaps, Akko offers the perfect value for money with this set.
Doraemon Macaron keycap set
Best choice for anime fans
Highlights:
- Pastel macaron colors in Doraemon style
- Robust PBT material
- Durable dye-sublimation printing
- 136-key set for maximum compatibility
The Akko Doraemon Macaron Set brings color and fun to your keyboard – ideal for anime fans who want to combine individuality and quality.
Conclusion
Cherry Profile keycaps are a great upgrade for both gamers and prolific typists. Their ergonomic, sculpted design, lower profile, and comfortable typing feel offer many advantages over other profiles like OEM.
Whether you want to enhance the look of your keyboard, make it more comfortable, or optimize its performance, Cherry keycaps are a worthwhile investment for any setup.
