Mt3 Vs Cherry Profile Comparison
Browse all smart locks guidesWhen building or upgrading a mechanical keyboard, the keycap profile you choose has a big impact on feel, sound, and aesthetics. Two popular profiles are MT3 and Cherry. This guide helps you understand how they differ and what to look for when selecting the right keycaps for your setup.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 Womier Pink Shine Through Keycaps, PBT Keyboard Keycaps Cherry Profile... | $26.01 | ★★★★4.1 | View |
 PBT Keycap Set 118 Keys/Set 8008 Keycaps PBT Key Caps for Mechanical K... | Check price | No rating | View |
 Key Caps for Mechanical Keyboard Height Replacement Keyboard Accessory... | $13.59 | No rating | View |
 Keycap Resin Artisan Keycaps 1U Esc for Cherry Mx Mechanical Switches ... | $26.95 | ★★★★★4.5 | View |
 ATTACK SHARK X85 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 75% Hot Swappable Wireless... | $89.99 | ★★★★★4.7 | View |
Womier Pink Shine Through Keycaps, PBT Keyboard Keycaps Cherry Profile, Custom Keycap Sets Suitable for 60% 65% 75% 80% 100% Mechanical Keyboards
PBT Keycap Set 118 Keys/Set 8008 Keycaps PBT Key Caps for Mechanical Keyboard Dye Sublimation Key Cap Keycap Sets (Color : Wild)
Key Caps for Mechanical Keyboard Height Replacement Keyboard Accessory for DIY Computer Use
Keycap Resin Artisan Keycaps 1U Esc for Cherry Mx Mechanical Switches -Japanese Style KOI Fish Plastic Keyboard Buttons - Keyboard Custom - Gamers Lovers Gift (Yellow KOI)
ATTACK SHARK X85 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 75% Hot Swappable Wireless 2.4GHz/BT/USB-C Gasket CNC Knob Coiled Cable RGB NKRO Cherry Profile Side Print PBT Keycaps White Jade Switch for Win/PC/MAC
Why this product type matters
Keycap profiles change the height, angle, and sculpt of each row, influencing ergonomics, typing speed, and sound. Cherry profile is a classic, slightly lower profile with modest curvature, favored for its balance of comfort and quick key access. MT3 is a taller, deeply sculpted profile with a pronounced spherical top, offering a more pronounced tactile feel and a retro look reminiscent of vintage keyboards. Choosing the right profile can reduce fatigue during long typing sessions, improve gaming responsiveness, and affect the overall aesthetic of your build. Additionally, the material (most often PBT) and manufacturing process (dye‑sublimation, double‑shot, or shine‑through) further impact durability and visual appeal.
How to choose
- Typing style – If you prefer a flatter feel and fast key flips, Cherry profile is typically easier on the fingers. For a more deliberate, tactile experience, MT3’s taller shape provides better finger placement.
- Keyboard size – Smaller layouts (60%‑65%) benefit from lower profiles like Cherry to keep reach short. Larger boards (80%‑100%) can comfortably accommodate the taller MT3 profile.
- Material & finish – PBT is resistant to shine and feels solid. Look for dye‑sublimated sets for vibrant, long‑lasting legends. Example: Womier Pink Shine Through Keycaps offer a cherry profile with a translucent finish for illuminated keyboards.
- Compatibility – Ensure the keycap set matches your switch type (most are Cherry MX compatible) and layout (number of keys). The ATTACK SHARK X85 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard ships with Cherry‑profile PBT keycaps and is a good reference point for a full‑size, hot‑swappable board.
- Budget – Artisan caps like the Japanese Style KOI Fish Resin Keycap add unique flair but are pricey per piece. Bulk sets such as the PBT Keycap Set 118 Keys provide extensive coverage at a lower per‑key cost.
- Aesthetics – Decide if you want a uniform look (all Cherry or all MT3) or prefer mixing profiles. Some users pair Cherry base sets with select MT3 artisan caps for a customized feel.
- Reviews & community feedback – Check ratings; for instance, the ATTACK SHARK X85 keyboard enjoys a 4.7‑star rating, indicating a well‑received Cherry‑profile implementation.
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between MT3 and Cherry keycap profiles?
MT3 is taller and more sculpted with a deep, spherical top, offering a pronounced tactile feel and vintage look. Cherry is shorter, with a moderate curve, providing a balanced, quicker typing experience.
Which profile is better for gaming?
Cherry profile is generally preferred for gaming because its lower height allows faster key presses and less finger travel, though some gamers enjoy the grip MT3 provides.
Can I mix MT3 and Cherry keycaps on the same keyboard?
Yes, you can mix them, but because the rows have different heights, the overall typing surface may feel uneven. Many enthusiasts use a Cherry base set and add a few MT3 artisan caps for visual contrast.
Do I need a specific switch type for MT3 or Cherry keycaps?
Both profiles are designed for standard Cherry MX‑compatible stems, so they work with most mechanical switches (Cherry, Gateron, Kailh, etc.).