Sarokeys BCP vs. Kailh Box Navy
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh Box Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh Box Navy. The Sarokeys BCP is a linear switch best known for its creamy and bouncy feel, coupled with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy is a clicky switch that offers a sharp, resonant, and invigorating typing experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. If you prefer a softer and more tactile typing experience, the BCP may be the way to go. However, if you enjoy a heavier and clickier feel while typing, the Box Navy switches might be the perfect fit for you. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
90g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh Box Navy, we see a clear distinction in the material used for the top housing. While the BCP utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, the Box Navy opts for polycarbonate, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The choice of material in the top housing significantly influences the overall sound experience of the switch, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound, while polycarbonate delivers a more clear and resonant profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to its functionality.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh Box Navy use nylon, presenting a similar sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material, each switch's overall sound profile will still be impacted by the combination of the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released.
In conclusion, while both the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh Box Navy share similarities in using nylon for the bottom housing, their top housing materials set them apart. The BCP's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature, while the Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound. Understanding the impact of each housing material on the overall sound experience is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel. Whether opting for a softer, more absorbing nylon or a stiffer, more resonant polycarbonate, the choice of housing material can make a significant difference in how a switch sounds and feels during use.
Weight
Comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, the actuation force and bottom out force differ significantly. The BCP has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Box Navy's heavier actuation force of 60 grams. The bottom out force also varies, with the BCP requiring 57 grams to bottom out, while the Box Navy needs a substantial 90 grams to reach the bottom. This means that the BCP switch offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for those looking for a smoother typing feel. In contrast, the Box Navy switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, making it suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the desired typing experience and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Box Navy has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the BCP. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing or gaming experience.
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 Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 offers a distinctive clacky sound profile, reminiscent of the iconic Black Cherry Pie switches, with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound, evoking the nostalgia of vintage buckling spring keyboards. Both switches offer unique sound experiences, with the BCP emphasizing on a poppy and clacky profile, while the Box Navy focuses on a clean and sharp resonance.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys BCP switch boasts a bouncy and creamy typing experience, characterized by a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth buttery feel. On the contrary, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and creating a pronounced and reactive typing sensation. While the BCP provides a lively and elastic feel, the Box Navy offers a more intense and firm actuation experience.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The BCP switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy typing experience, while the Box Navy switch delivers a resonant sound and a sharp, invigorating tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches guarantee a fulfilling and satisfying typing experience, with the BCP focusing on a more classic sound and feel, while the Box Navy offers a more modern and intense tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Sarokeys BCP linear switch or the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a creamy feel and a clacky sound profile, the BCP may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a sharp tactile bump and a crunchy, resonant sound, then the Box Navy switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your individual preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force. Choose wisely to elevate your typing experience to the next level.
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