The 14 Best Minimalist Keycaps: Unlocking Elegance

Last Updated on October 16, 2023

When it comes to customizing your mechanical keyboard, keycaps play a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. Minimalist keycaps are a popular choice for those who prefer a clean and simple look for their keyboard. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best minimalist keycap sets available in the market. Whether you’re an avid typist or a gaming enthusiast, these keycaps offer durability, style, and a comfortable typing experience.

1. GMK MINIMAL 2 Keycaps

• Keycap Material: ABS
• Keycap Printing: Doubleshot
• Keycap Profile: Cherry Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: Compatible
• Manufacturer: GMK
• Price: $129.99

The GMK MINIMAL 2 Cherry Profile Doubleshot ABS Keycaps are at the forefront of minimalist keycap design. Crafted with precision and quality in mind, these keycaps are not only aesthetically pleasing but also ergonomic.

Their Cherry profile, characterized by varying keycap heights, offers a comfortable and natural typing experience, reducing strain on your hands during extended use. The doubleshot legends ensure that the key labels remain crisp and clear over time, providing durability to match their style. The warm white with black legends color scheme exudes simplicity and elegance, making these keycaps suitable for any keyboard and enhancing visibility in various lighting conditions.

Pros:

• High-quality ABS material for durability
• Cherry profile for ergonomic typing
• Doubleshot legends for long-lasting labels
• Aesthetic and minimalist design
• Compatible with a wide range of keyboards

Cons:

• Relatively higher price point

2. DROP GMK White-On-Black Keycaps

• Keycap Material: ABS
• Keycap Printing: Doubleshot
• Keycap Profile: Cherry Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: Yes
• Manufacturer: DROP
• Price: $120.00

The DROP GMK White-On-Black Keycaps offer a minimalist design that complements a wide range of mechanical keyboards. Crafted by the renowned German manufacturer GMK, these keycaps are made from high-quality ABS plastic using original Cherry tooling. The set consists of 146 ultra-thick and durable keycaps, putting their PBT counterparts to the test. The classic colors of CR Black and WS1 White create a sleek and complementary look that pairs well with any keyboard, making them versatile for both standard and nonstandard layouts.

These keycaps are Doubleshot, providing long-lasting legends and ensuring that the characters won’t fade over time. The Cherry Profile enhances the typing experience, and the set is made in Germany, assuring quality and precision. These keycaps are compatible with various layouts, including 60%, 65%, HHKB, 66% (Clueboard / Leopold FC660), 75%, Tenkeyless, 104 Keyboard, and 1800 Layouts, making them adaptable to a wide range of keyboards.

Pros:

• The keycaps are made of durable ABS plastic using original Cherry tooling for long-lasting performance.
• The GMK classic CR Black and WS1 White colors offer a timeless and complementary look suitable for a variety of keyboards.
• The legends on these keycaps are Doubleshot, ensuring they won’t fade over time and providing a clean and crisp appearance.
• These keycaps are compatible with various keyboard layouts, making them a flexible choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Cons:

• The keycap set is relatively expensive compared to some other options in the market.
• These keycaps are not translucent, so they may not be suitable for users who prefer RGB lighting to shine through their keycaps.

3. DROP DCX Black-on-White Keycaps

• 
  Keycap Material: ABS
• Keycap Printing: Doubleshot
• Keycap Profile: DCX Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: Yes
• Manufacturer: DROP
• Price: $83.16

The DROP DCX Black-on-White Keycap Set offers a minimalist and elegant design that can enhance the aesthetics of your mechanical keyboard. Made from high-quality ABS material, these keycaps are designed to be durable and long-lasting. The keycap legends are created using a doubleshot printing process, ensuring that the legends won’t fade or wear off over time. The keycap profile is subtly sculpted, providing a comfortable typing experience.

The black legends on a white background create a striking contrast, making the keycaps not only visually appealing but also easy to read. DROP has invested over two years in the development of these keycaps, refining the design and manufacturing process to ensure the highest quality. The keycaps are compatible with Cherry MX switches and clones, offering extensive layout support, including HHKB, 60%, 65%, 75%, TKL, WKL, Full-size, and 1800 layouts.

Pros:

• Durable ABS material
• Doubleshot legends for long-lasting printing
• Striking black-on-white design
• Subtly sculpted profile for comfortable typing
• Extensive layout compatibility

Cons:

• Lack of RGB Translucent lighting compatibility

4. EPBT BOW HANGUL Keycaps

• Keycap Material: PBT
• Keycap Printing: Dye Sublimation
• Keycap Profile: Cherry Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: No
• Manufacturer: ePBT
• Price:

The EPBT BOW HANGUL Cherry Profile Dye-Sub PBT Keycaps cater to those who appreciate the elegance of minimalism in their mechanical keyboards. These keycaps, crafted from durable PBT material, not only promise longevity but also resist the common issue of shine that can plague keycap surfaces over time. The Cherry Profile, known for its lower key height compared to the traditional OEM profile, contributes to a comfortable and efficient typing experience.

A distinctive feature of these keycaps is their dye-sub production method. Using dye-sublimation, legends are imprinted onto the keycaps with dye, ensuring a long-lasting, wear-resistant print. Moreover, these keycaps bear legends in Hangul, the Korean alphabet, adding a touch of uniqueness to your keyboard setup.

ePBT, renowned for its high-quality PBT keycaps, is the manufacturer of these keycaps. They are known for their smooth texture, which makes typing a pleasure. These keycaps are designed for compatibility with Cherry MX switches and MX-style clones, making them an excellent choice for mechanical keyboards featuring these switches.

While these keycaps come at a premium price compared to other options, their quality, durability, and minimalist design justify the investment. The EPBT BOW HANGUL Cherry Profile Dye-Sub PBT Keycaps are perfect for those who seek a combination of style and functionality.

Pros:

• Dye-sublimation printing method for long-lasting legends.
• Unique Hangul legends for added character.
• Cherry Profile offers a comfortable typing experience.
• Resistant to shine, ensuring longevity.
• ePBT’s reputation for high-quality PBT keycaps.
• Compatible with Cherry MX switches and clones.

Cons:

• Premium pricing may deter budget-conscious buyers.
• Lack of RGB lighting support for those seeking backlighting customization.

5. Mistel Minimalist Black Keycaps

• Keycap Material: PBT
• Keycap Printing: Doubleshot
• Keycap Profile: OEM Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: No
• Manufacturer: Mistel
• Price: $39.99

Mistel Minimalist Black Keycaps are a premium choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking both style and substance. Crafted from durable doubleshot PBT material, these keycaps are exceptionally resistant to wear and tear, maintaining their quality even under the most intensive use. The keycaps feature a subtle and elegant font, adding a touch of sophistication to your keyboard setup.

These keycaps are designed with ergonomics in mind, offering an OEM profile with varying heights and angles (R1~R4 layout). This ergonomic key shape ensures a comfortable typing experience, reducing strain during prolonged use. Moreover, the set includes 108 PBT OEM Profile Keycaps along with 11 extra replacement keycaps, allowing for creative customization.

Pros:

• These keycaps are highly resistant to friction, temperature, and solvents, ensuring they remain in pristine condition.
• The OEM profile and ergonomic key shapes enhance comfort during typing.
• Doubleshot legends never fade, making them ideal for gaming and heavy typing.
• The set includes 11 extra keycaps, allowing for versatile customization.

Cons:

• These keycaps don’t support RGB lighting.
• They are compatible primarily with Cherry MX switches and related clones, which might limit compatibility with other switches.

6. Mistel Orange On White Keycaps

• Keycap Material: PBT
• Keycap Printing: Doubleshot
• Keycap Profile: OEM Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: No
• Manufacturer: Mistel
• Price: $45.99

Mistel’s Orange On White Keycaps are a testament to minimalist design, offering a sleek and modern appearance for your mechanical keyboard. Crafted from durable Doubleshot PBT material, these keycaps are highly resistant to wear and tear, ensuring longevity and a comfortable typing experience. The subtle orange lettering on a clean white background not only adds a touch of elegance but also ensures key legends won’t fade, making them ideal for gamers and programmers who engage in heavy typing.

The keycap profile, following the OEM standard with R1~R4 layouts, offers a comfortable typing experience with varying heights and angles. The set includes 119 keys, compatible with most Cherry MX switches and their clones. As a bonus, you’ll receive an extra 11 keycaps, allowing for creative customization of your mechanical keyboard.

Pros:

• Durable Doubleshot PBT material ensures longevity and resistance to wear.
• Subtle and elegant orange lettering on white keycaps.
• Ergonomic design for comfortable typing.
• Compatible with a wide range of Cherry MX switches and clones.
• Bonus keycaps for customization.

Cons:

• Some users might prefer a different keycap profile, but this is subjective and depends on personal preference.

7. Sumgsn Black on White Keycaps

• Keycap Material: PBT
• Keycap Printing: Doubleshot
• Keycap Profile: Cherry Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: No
• Manufacturer: Sumgsn
• Price: $27.99

Sumgsn Black on White Keycaps offer a minimalist and sleek design for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. These keycaps come in a classic Black on White color scheme, providing a clean and elegant look for your keyboard setup. With 169 keys in the package, they are suitable for ISO/ANSI layouts and are an excellent choice for those who want to customize their keyboards.

One standout feature of these keycaps is the Double Shot Design. This manufacturing technique involves molding two layers of plastic into each other, ensuring that the keycaps will not wear down or lose their lettering over time. The Cherry Profile of these keycaps offers a comfortable and ergonomic typing experience, making them suitable for long hours of use, whether for work or gaming. These keycaps are compatible with various mechanical keyboards, including 61/84/87/104/108 layouts, offering versatility in customization.

Pros:

• Clean and minimalist design in Black on White.
• Durable Double Shot Design for long-lasting keycap lettering.
• Cherry Profile for a comfortable typing experience.
• Compatibility with various mechanical keyboard layouts.

Cons:

• Lacks of RGB lighting compatibility.

8. Gliging Bow Keycaps

• Keycap Material: PBT
• Keycap Printing: Doubleshot
• Keycap Profile: Cherry Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: Yes (for backlight keyboards)
• Manufacturer: Gliging
• Price: $32.99

Gliging Bow Keycaps: The Gliging Bow Keycaps offer a minimalist and sleek design that will elevate the aesthetics of your mechanical keyboard. Made from high-quality PBT material, these keycaps are not only durable but also resistant to color fading, ensuring a long-lasting, crisp appearance. With a Cherry profile, they provide a comfortable and ergonomic typing experience.

These keycaps feature a unique double shot printing process, enhancing both visual appeal and durability. They are compatible with a wide range of mechanical and optical keyboards, including those with cross-shaped key switches, making them a versatile choice for custom mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Additionally, they are designed for backlight and non-backlight keyboards, making them suitable for various setups. At a reasonable price point of $32.99, the Gliging Bow Keycaps offer a great way to customize and enhance your keyboard’s style.

Pros:

• Durable PBT material
• Unique double shot printing
• Cherry profile for comfortable typing
• Compatibility with a variety of keyboard types
• Suitable for both backlight and non-backlight setups
• Affordable pricing

Cons:

• Not explicitly mentioned if they are compatible with non-Cherry MX switches (although they claim compatibility with cross-shaped key switches)
• Limited color options (only available in white and black)

9. Mintcaps WOB Keycaps

• Keycap Material: PBT
• Keycap Printing: Doubleshot
• Keycap Profile: Cherry Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: No
• Manufacturer: mintcaps
• Price: $23.99

Mintcaps WOB Keycaps offer a minimalist and stylish solution to elevate your mechanical keyboard experience. Crafted with precision, these keycaps are made using high-quality material and the innovative doubleshot technology, ensuring that the legends remain clear and do not fade over time. The elegant font used on these keycaps adds to their visual appeal, making them an excellent choice for those who appreciate aesthetics along with functionality.

The Cherry Profile design of these keycaps is a standout feature, providing an ergonomic layout with suspended high keycaps and a curved design that enhances comfort during prolonged typing sessions. Even after extended use, you won’t experience fatigue. Additionally, the keycaps are exceptionally durable, thanks to their thickened keycap walls, ensuring longevity and a satisfying typing experience.

Mintcaps WOB Keycaps are highly customizable and compatible with various keyboard models, including those with 61, 64, 68, 84, 75, 87, 96, 98, 104, and 108 keys. These keycaps can be effortlessly installed on popular keyboards such as the RK61, GK64, GK61, RK68, RK84, GH60, and more. Moreover, they are compatible with switches from Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, Outemu, and any switches with cross-shaped stems. If you seek to personalize your mechanical keyboard, these keycaps are an excellent choice, offering both style and durability.

Pros:

• High-quality doubleshot keycaps with clear, long-lasting legends.
• Ergonomic Cherry Profile design for comfortable typing.
• Durable and sturdy keycaps for prolonged use.
• Compatible with a wide range of mechanical keyboards and switches.
• Aesthetic and minimalist design.

Cons:

• Lacks of RGB compatibility or translucency.

10. Mintcaps White Keycaps

• Keycap Material: PBT
• Keycap Printing: Doubleshot
• Keycap Profile: Cherry Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: No
• Manufacturer: Mintcaps
• Price: $23.99

Mintcaps’ White Keycaps offer a clean and minimalist aesthetic for your mechanical keyboard. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, these keycaps are constructed using high-quality materials and doubleshot technology. This ensures that the legends on the keycaps are clear and long-lasting, with no risk of fading. The elegant font choice complements the overall design, making your keyboard not only functional but also stylish.

One standout feature of these keycaps is their Cherry Profile. Designed with ergonomics in mind, the keycaps have a suspended high keycap and a curved layout. This design enhances your typing experience, providing lasting comfort even during extended use. The keycaps are both strong and sturdy, thanks to the thickened keycap walls, ensuring long-term durability.

These White Keycaps from Mintcaps are compatible with a wide range of mechanical keyboards, including those with Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, Outemu, and other cross-shaped switches. With 120 keycaps in the set, you have ample customization options to suit your specific keyboard layout, whether it’s a 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, or other compatible models like RK61, GK64, and more.

Pros:

• Durable construction with doubleshot technology and thickened keycap walls.
• Ergonomically designed Cherry Profile for enhanced comfort during typing.
• Compatibility with various keyboard models and switch types.
• Clean and minimalist aesthetic with elegant legends.

Cons:

• No translucent or compatible with RGB lighting support.

11. Mintcaps Grey Keycaps

• Keycap Material: PBT
• Keycap Printing: Doubleshot
• Keycap Profile: Cherry Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: No
• Manufacturer: mintcaps
• Price: $23.99

Mintcaps Grey Keycaps are the epitome of minimalist design and exceptional functionality for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Crafted with high-quality materials and employing doubleshot technology, these keycaps offer unparalleled durability while featuring legends that remain clear and fade-resistant. The clean and stylish font enhances the overall aesthetic, making these keycaps a perfect choice for those who appreciate an uncluttered, modern look.

Designed in the Cherry Profile, Mintcaps Grey Keycaps bring an ergonomic touch to your typing experience. The suspended high keycap design and curved layout ensure lasting comfort, even during extended use. These keycaps are not only comfortable but also exceptionally sturdy, thanks to their thickened keycap walls. The durable construction allows for a satisfying and tactile typing feel.

These versatile keycaps cater to a variety of keyboard layouts, including 61%, 64%, 68%, 75%, 84%, 87%, 96%, 98%, 104%, and 108% keyboards. Whether you own an RK61, GK64, GK61, RK68, RK84, GH60, or other compatible keyboards, these grey keycaps are ready to elevate your typing experience. They work seamlessly with Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, Outemu, and any key switches with cross-shaped switches, making them an excellent choice for customizing your mechanical keyboard.

In summary, Mintcaps Grey Keycaps offer a minimalist, stylish, and ergonomic typing solution that is built to last. With clear legends, Cherry Profile design, and broad compatibility, they are a fantastic choice for anyone seeking to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.

Pros:

• High-quality doubleshot keycaps for exceptional durability.
• Ergonomically designed in the Cherry Profile for lasting comfort.
• Broad compatibility with various keyboard layouts and switch types.
• Stylish and minimalist aesthetics, perfect for modern setups.

Cons:

• Not translucent.
• Lacks of RGB compatibility.

12. Gliging White Theme Minimalist Style Keycaps

• Keycap Material: PBT
• Keycap Printing: Dye Sublimation
• Keycap Profile: Cherry Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: No
• Manufacturer: Gliging
• Price: $26.99

If you’re in search of a minimalist and clean look for your mechanical keyboard, the Gliging White Theme Minimalist Style Keycaps offer an excellent solution. Crafted from durable PBT material with a dye-sublimation printing process and anti-grease coating, these keycaps not only provide a pleasant typing experience but also ensure long-lasting quality. With a total of 135 keys, consisting of 108 primary keys and 27 modifiers, they are compatible with various keyboard layouts, making them suitable for 60%, 65%, 75%, and 100% form factor keyboards. Moreover, these keycaps are designed for mechanical keyboards with cross-shaped switches and are ideal for custom mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

The Cherry Profile of these keycaps provides a comfortable and ergonomic typing experience, and they are equally suited for both backlit and non-backlit mechanical keyboards. With their sleek and minimalist white theme, these keycaps will add a touch of elegance to your keyboard setup, making them a great choice for office and everyday use. In terms of value for money, these Gliging keycaps offer a budget-friendly option for those looking to upgrade their keyboard’s aesthetics and feel.

Pros:

• Durable PBT material with an anti-grease coating ensures long-lasting quality.
• Compatibility with various keyboard layouts, making them versatile for different setups.
• Cherry Profile offers an ergonomic and comfortable typing experience.
• Suitable for both backlit and non-backlit mechanical keyboards.
• Affordable price point for a minimalist keycap set.

Cons:

• Not translucent, so they won’t allow light to shine through for RGB effects.
• The keycap puller may not be included in some cases, which might be inconvenient for users who don’t have one.

13. Guffercty kred GTSP Japanese White Keycaps

• Keycap Material: PBT
• Keycap Printing: Dye Sublimation
• Keycap Profile: XDA Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: No
• Manufacturer: Guffercty kred
• Price: $25.99

The Guffercty kred GTSP Japanese White Keycaps are a minimalist’s dream come true. Crafted from Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT), these keycaps offer exceptional durability, high hardness, wear resistance, and resistance to high temperatures. The keycap printing is achieved through Dye Sublimation, ensuring clear and non-fading fonts for a long-lasting aesthetic. This 135-key set is designed in the XDA profile, which features a larger surface contact and an ergonomic, uniform profile, making it ideal for ortho-linear layouts. These keycaps are compatible with a wide range of mechanical keyboards, including Cherry MX, Gateron, Halo, and Kaihua switches.

Pros:

• The Guffercty kred GTSP Japanese White Keycaps feature a minimalist design that complements any setup, making them perfect for those who prefer a clean and uncluttered aesthetic.
• Crafted from PBT, these keycaps are highly durable, resistant to wear, and can withstand high temperatures, ensuring a long lifespan.
• The Dye Sublimation printing method ensures that the keycap legends remain clear and do not fade over time, maintaining their pristine look.
• These keycaps are compatible with a variety of mechanical keyboards and switches, making them versatile for different setups.

Cons:

• These keycaps are not translucent, so they do not allow for RGB lighting to shine through. This might not be ideal for users who prefer illuminated keycaps.

14. Sumgsn Minimalist Black Keycaps

• Keycap Material: PBT
• Keycap Printing: Doubleshot
• Keycap Profile: Cherry Profile
• Translucent: No
• RGB Light: Not suitable for backlighting
• Manufacturer: Sumgsn
• Price: $26.99

The Sumgsn Minimalist Black Keycaps offer a sleek and functional solution for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a minimalist aesthetic. Crafted from Double Shot PBT, these keycaps not only provide a clean and timeless appearance but also promise long-lasting durability with legends that won’t fade over time. This set comprises 139 keys, making it compatible with a wide range of mechanical keyboards featuring Cherry MX switches, from compact 60% layouts to full-sized 108-key configurations.

These keycaps follow the Cherry profile, designed for ergonomic comfort during extended typing sessions. The low-profile design reduces typing fatigue, ensuring a comfortable experience even during prolonged use. While these keycaps lack backlight compatibility, they are an excellent choice for those who prioritize a clean and uncluttered look for their mechanical keyboards. Furthermore, the package includes a key puller, making installation and customization a breeze.

Pros:

• Durable Double Shot PBT material ensures long-lasting key legends.
• Cherry profile offers an ergonomic and comfortable typing experience.
• Compatibility with a wide range of mechanical keyboards.

Cons:

• Not suitable for RGB backlighting.
• Limited color options for those seeking more vibrant aesthetics.

How to Choose the Right Minimalist Keycaps

To choose the right minimalist keycaps that suit your preferences and requirements, consider the following factors:

1. Compatibility:
   • Ensure the keycaps you’re interested in are compatible with your keyboard layout and switch type. Keycaps come in various layouts, such as ANSI, ISO, and various ergonomic layouts, so double-check compatibility before making a purchase.
2. Keycap Material:
   • Keycaps are commonly made from materials like ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate). Consider your priorities:
     • PBT: Known for its durability and resistance to wear, PBT keycaps are preferred by many enthusiasts. They have a matte texture and are less prone to shine.
     • ABS: ABS keycaps can be more affordable but are typically less durable and may develop a shiny appearance over time.
3. Keycap Profile:
   • Keycap profiles refer to the shape and height of the keycaps. Common profiles include Cherry, OEM, DSA, SA, and more.
     • Cherry Profile: A common choice with a lower profile and slight curvature.
     • OEM Profile: A rounded and taller profile.
     • DSA Profile: Uniform flat keycaps that can be easily rearranged.
4. Design:
   • Minimalist keycaps often come in clean, simple designs, but there can still be variations:
     • Blank Keycaps: Completely devoid of legends (letters or symbols) for a clean, all-white or all-black look.
     • Simple Legends: Keycaps may have minimalistic letters or symbols in a clean font.
     • Color Scheme: Consider whether you prefer classic black and white or other minimalist color combinations.
5. Quality and Brand:
   • Consider the reputation and quality of the brand when choosing keycaps. While there are budget options available, investing in higher-quality keycaps can lead to better durability and a more satisfying typing experience.
6. Customization:
   • If you have specific preferences for your keyboard’s look, consider if the keycap set allows for customization. Some sets include additional keycaps for unique layouts or accents to match your setup.
7. Extras:
   • Some keycap sets include extras such as novelty keys or alternative keycap sizes. These can add a unique touch to your keyboard.
8. Price:
   • Keep your budget in mind. Prices for keycap sets can vary widely, so determine what you’re willing to spend and look for options within your price range.
9. Reviews and Recommendations:
   • Check reviews and ask for recommendations from the mechanical keyboard community or friends who are enthusiasts. They can provide insights into the quality and feel of specific keycap sets.
10. Personal Preference:
    • Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences and aesthetic taste. Choose keycaps that resonate with your style and enhance your typing experience.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select the right minimalist keycap set that not only complements your mechanical keyboard but also ensures a satisfying and visually appealing typing experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice of minimalist keycaps for your mechanical keyboard is a decision that should align with your individual preferences and functional requirements. The factors to consider, such as compatibility, material, profile, design, and quality, play a crucial role in determining the right keycap set for your needs.

Minimalist keycaps, with their clean and understated aesthetics, are a popular choice for those who value a distraction-free and elegant keyboard setup. Whether you prioritize durability, texture, affordability, or specific design elements, there are keycaps available to match your criteria.

Additionally, personalizing your keyboard with the right keycap set not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to a more comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, and by taking these considerations into account, you can confidently select the perfect minimalist keycaps that reflect your style and elevate your mechanical keyboard to a new level of functionality and aesthetics.