Sarokeys BCP vs. Durock Black Lotus
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Black Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Black Lotus both offer unique experiences for users. The BCP from Sarokeys provides a bouncy and creamy typing feel with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, thanks to custom molds that eliminate the need for switch disassembly. On the other hand, the Durock Black Lotus offers a silky smooth feel with reduced housing and stem wobble for precision typing, along with a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between substantial and manageable. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
51g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Black Lotus switches both feature nylon as their top and bottom housing materials. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on either switch. While both switches use nylon for their housing material, the BCP's nylon top housing is matched with a nylon bottom housing, while the Black Lotus features a modified PC & UPE blend for its top housing material.
In terms of the key feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press. With both the BCP and the Black Lotus featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the deep and full sound profile created by this material. However, the top housing material, which differs between the two switches, may contribute to a unique key feel and sound when releasing a key. The modified PC & UPE blend top housing of the Black Lotus provides a premium feel that may offer a different typing experience compared to the BCP's nylon top housing.
In conclusion, while both the Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Black Lotus switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, the different top housing materials they feature can result in varied typing experiences. The BCP's nylon top and bottom housings create a consistent deep and full sound profile, while the Black Lotus's modified PC & UPE blend top housing may offer a more premium feel and potentially a different sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of the typing experience and sound profile desired.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Durock Black Lotus linear switch, it is clear that the BCP is lighter in terms of actuation force at 51 grams compared to the Black Lotus at 55 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the BCP is also lighter at 57 grams compared to the Black Lotus at 63.5 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, with the BCP leaning towards the medium-light side and the Black Lotus towards the medium-heavy side. The difference in weight between the two switches may appeal to different preferences; the BCP may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter actuation and bottom out force, while the Black Lotus may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a balanced mix of actuation and bottom out forces, providing options for users with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Durock Black Lotus linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The BCP switch is better suited for individuals who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers who need fast reflexes. On the other hand, the Black Lotus switch provides a deeper press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different travel distances to cater to different preferences, with the BCP being the shorter option and the Black Lotus being the longer option for a more extended key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys BCP has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.85.
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is known for its signature clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch does not have a specific description provided, so it is unclear how it sounds. However, sound is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
Moving on to feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience. The keys have a lively and elastic feedback sensation, combined with a smooth and buttery feel that makes typing effortless and enjoyable. In contrast, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. These qualities imply an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced resistance, a gentle feel, and a refined finish for a sleek typing sensation. Both switches excel in providing a premium tactile experience, but the individual nuances in feel may cater to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, while both the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Durock Black Lotus linear switch offer exceptional qualities in terms of sound and feel, they each bring their unique characteristics to the table. If you enjoy a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy typing experience, the BCP may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky, buttery, mild, and polished feel with reduced housing and stem wobble, the Black Lotus could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience that is sure to satisfy mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between Sarokeys BCP linear switches and Durock Black Lotus linear switches, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a bouncy and creamy feel with a clacky sound profile, the BCP switches may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky and buttery feel with a mild and polished sound, the Black Lotus switches might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing experience and the specific characteristics that appeal to you the most.
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