What do the different cap profiles mean? Cherry vs OEM vs XDA vs KOA vs SA vs MOG?
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Mechanical keyboards are more than just a tool – they are a hobby, a passion, and a way to express your style. One of the most important factors in comfort, sound, and appearance is the keycap profile .
In this article, we will look at six of the most interesting and popular profiles: Cherry, OEM, XDA, KOA, MOG, and SA , to help you choose the right one for you.
🔹 Cherry Profile
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Height: Medium
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Shape: Sculpted rows (each row has a slight slope)
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Feel: Ergonomic and comfortable for long hours of typing
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Good for: Programmers, writers, and gamers who want balance
The Cherry profile is one of the most used and preferred. Its combination of comfort and aesthetics makes it the "gold standard" in the world of mechanical keyboards.
🔹 OEM Profile
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Height: Slightly taller than Cherry
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Shape: Sculpted rows
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Feel: Familiar to people coming from standard keyboards
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Suitable for: Universal use
The OEM profile is the most common in mainstream mechanical keyboards. If you've ever used a standard keyboard, you've probably already typed on OEM keycaps.
🔹 XDA Profile
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Height: Medium, even rows
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Shape: Flat and wide surfaces
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Feel: Smooth and comfortable for the fingers, minimalist style
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Suitable for: Users who want symmetry and aesthetics
XDA offers a clean design and a smooth typing experience. It is versatile and suitable for fans of minimalism.
🔹 KOA Profile
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Height: Low to medium
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Shape: Modern, ergonomic design
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Feel: Stable and comfortable for fast typing or gaming
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Suitable for: People who want a balance between aesthetics and practicality
KOA is an innovative profile that combines the convenience of lower caps with a modern look. It is often preferred by enthusiasts looking for something different from classic profiles.
🔹 MOG Profile
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Height: Tall, but with a specific ergonomic shape
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Shape: Sculpted rows with a characteristic slope
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Feel: Deep sound and distinct tactile feel
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Suitable for: Lovers of a more powerful "thocky" sound and retro look
The MOG profile provides a unique typing experience. It's a niche choice, but among fans of deeper sound, it's a real find.
🔹 SA Profile
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Height: High keycaps
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Shape: Domed, sculpted
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Feel: Retro look + rich and resonant sound
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Suitable for: Enthusiasts and collectors
The SA profile is iconic with its retro style and distinctive "thocky" sound. It's suitable for people who want their keyboard to look impressive and sound thick.
How to choose the right profile?
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If you are looking for ergonomics and balance → Cherry
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If you want versatility and a familiar feel → OEM
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If you like minimalism and straight lines → XDA
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If you are looking for a modern and different profile → KOA
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If you want a solid sound and a retro feel → MOG or SA
Conclusion
Keycap profiles are the key to a personalized mechanical keyboard experience. Whether you're looking for ergonomics, minimalism, or a retro look, the choice is yours.
👉 Check out our keyboards, switches and accessories at TypeHero.eu and find the perfect setup for yourself!