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🕹️ Silicone Thumb Stick Grip Caps for R36S / Retro Consoles
I picked up the 4-piece Silicone Thumb Stick Caps mainly to enhance grip on my R36S handheld console. I do a lot of retro gaming on the go, and those tiny joysticks can get slippery during long sessions. The listing had a huge number of reviews and the designs looked simple but functional, so I gave them a shot.
The delivery took just under 3 weeks to the US—decent by AliExpress standards. Each cap came individually packed, and the silicone felt softer than I expected (a good thing). Installation was super easy: they stretched gently over the joystick heads and stayed in place without sliding off.
Pros: ✔ Excellent grip upgrade ✔ Fits perfectly on R36S and compatible models ✔ Doesn’t interfere with joystick sensitivity ✔ Variety of colors included ✔ Affordable multipack
Cons: ✘ Silicone attracts a bit of lint over time ✘ Doesn’t work well with non-standard joystick sizes
Compared to similar joystick grip caps sold in the US (like the ones on Amazon for $7–$10 a pair), these are a steal. I paid less than $2 per set. And yes—they absolutely met my expectations. They’re simple, but they improve gameplay comfort a lot.
US $1.19
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⌨️ 129-Key Transparent Pudding Keycap Set (OEM Profile, PBT)
I was customizing my mechanical keyboard and came across this Transparent Pudding Keycap Set. The dual-layer design (white top + translucent sides) caught my attention because it really makes RGB lighting pop. The OEM profile and PBT material sealed the deal.
Shipping took about 17 days. Everything arrived in perfect condition, sorted in a plastic tray. The keys felt smooth with a slight texture, and I had no issues fitting them onto my Gateron switches. I loved how the light diffused through the pudding sides—super satisfying.
Pros: ✔ Stunning RGB diffusion ✔ Durable double-shot PBT ✔ Full 129-key layout ✔ Works with all MX-compatible boards ✔ Excellent typing feel
Cons: ✘ Some keycap fonts are a little “gamery” ✘ Doesn’t include a keycap puller
For about $20, this set outperforms similar ones that cost $40–$60 in the US. The pudding-style caps from brands like HyperX are nice, but you’re basically paying for branding. This set? Same quality, way better price. Exceeded my expectations!
US $8.17
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🔧 Switch Puller + Opener + Lube Kit for Mechanical Keyboards
I’ve been getting more into keyboard modding, so this Keyboard Switch Puller & Lube Kit was a must. It came with everything: a keycap puller, switch opener, tweezer, brush, and a small pot of lubricant. The price was too good to ignore, especially for beginners like me.
Shipping was fast—about 12 days. The tools were packed in foam inside a tin, which I really appreciated. I used it to mod a few Gateron Reds and was surprised at how easy the opener made things. The lube quality isn’t premium-grade Krytox, but it’s smooth and odorless.
Pros: ✔ Complete starter kit ✔ Effective switch opener ✔ Metal puller with good grip ✔ Brush included ✔ Ideal for budget-conscious hobbyists
Cons: ✘ Lubricant pot is very small ✘ Brush sheds a little
This kit cost me under $10, while a comparable kit from US brands like Glorious or Gateron starts at $25+. For casual modding, this kit does the job well. Honestly better than I expected!
US $1.19
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🍃 DIY Epoxy Keycap with Translucent Leaves and Flowers
This Epoxy Keycap with Dry Flowers was an impulse buy for aesthetic reasons—I wanted something to spice up my ESC key. The idea of having real leaves embedded in resin just sounded cool, and each keycap is unique.
It arrived in a tiny plastic box, protected with foam. The detail inside the keycap is really impressive. The resin is clear, with no bubbles, and the green leaves give it a peaceful, natural vibe. It fits securely on my MX stem and adds a subtle artisan touch.
Pros: ✔ Unique, handmade look ✔ Clean casting ✔ Solid feel ✔ Great for showcasing a single key
Cons: ✘ Slightly higher profile than standard keys ✘ Only one cap—can feel lonely on the board
I paid under $7 for this, while artisan keycaps in the US can run $25–$50 easily. Definitely worth it if you’re into customizing your keyboard. Met expectations fully.
US $1.91
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🔲 104-Key Blank ABS Keycap Set (Ergonomic Profile)
I wanted to experiment with a minimalist keyboard layout, and this 104-Key Blank Keycap Set was perfect. I got the all-black version, and the smooth surface with no legends makes the keyboard look sleek and intimidating (in a good way).
Shipping was standard—about 18 days. The keys came in a generic plastic tray. The ABS plastic isn’t the thickest, but it’s decent for casual use. Typing on blank keys took some adjustment, but it’s been fun and good typing practice.
Pros: ✔ Super clean aesthetic ✔ Compatible with backlit boards ✔ Full 104-key layout ✔ Lightweight
Cons: ✘ ABS wears faster than PBT ✘ Slightly thinner than premium caps
At around $10, they’re much cheaper than US brands like WASD or Vortex, which charge $30+ for blank sets. For the price, this set does its job and then some. Exactly what I was looking for.
US $1.19
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🌈 Pudding Theme Double-Shot ABS/PBT Keycap Set (RGB Compatible)
I couldn’t resist trying another pudding keycap set, and this Pudding Theme Keycap Set had a fun, slightly pastel aesthetic. The double-shot legends promised durability, and I liked the ABS+PBT hybrid material claim.
It arrived in under 3 weeks. The caps were sorted by row and labeled, which made installation fast. The keycaps diffused RGB lighting beautifully and had a nice smooth feel. Not quite as thick as full PBT, but not flimsy either.
Pros: ✔ Great light diffusion ✔ Cute aesthetic ✔ Decent double-shot molding ✔ Full 104-key layout
Cons: ✘ Some inconsistencies in font thickness ✘ Slight flex in longer keys
I paid under $18, while a similar themed set in the US costs $35–$45. Very happy with the quality to price ratio.
US $9.61
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🌊 Coral Sea Esc + Space Bar Keycap Set (OEM Profile, PBT)
This little 2-key set immediately caught my eye because of the Coral Sea artwork. I love ocean themes and thought this would be a nice touch for my keyboard build. The product page had detailed images, and the print looked crisp, so I went for it.
The package was small but well protected. The space bar is a standard 6.25u and fits Cherry and Gateron boards perfectly. The PBT texture feels premium and the printing is sharp with no fading.
Pros: ✔ Beautiful, high-resolution print ✔ High-quality PBT ✔ Fits most ANSI boards ✔ Makes your board stand out
Cons: ✘ Only two keys ✘ Slightly higher price per key
At $5.50 for two keys, it’s way cheaper than artisan bars in the US, which can cost $15+. A solid purchase if you’re into subtle customization. Totally met my expectations.
US $3.68
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💻 Mini Retro Macintosh Keycap Set (2PC Nostalgic MAC Hat FC)
This Mini Macintosh Keycap Pair was pure nostalgia. I grew up seeing these old Macs, and having a tiny version on my keyboard just felt fun. It includes two swappable faceplates, which was a quirky bonus.
Delivery was surprisingly fast—around 2 weeks. The caps are ABS but well-made, with smooth surfaces and clean molding. The retro look is perfect for an ESC or F-row novelty key. They’re functional but mostly decorative.
Pros: ✔ Hilariously accurate retro design ✔ Switchable faceplates ✔ Good fit on Cherry stems ✔ Conversation starter
Cons: ✘ Purely decorative ✘ Doesn’t match every board aesthetic
At $4–$5, it’s cheaper than novelty caps from Drop or RAMA. It’s a bit of a niche item, but I absolutely loved it. Unexpectedly fun and well-made.
US $1.19
Overall Impression
Honestly, I went into this expecting mixed results, but nearly every item exceeded my expectations. The quality of the keycaps, the switch tools, even the novelty items like the mini Mac cap—everything felt like it could’ve cost twice as much in the US. Shipping times were acceptable, and none of the items arrived damaged or misrepresented.
Would I recommend these products? Definitely. They’re budget-friendly, fun, and perfect for anyone customizing their mechanical keyboard setup. I’m already planning my next AliExpress haul.
