Sarokeys BCP vs. Bsun Bumblebee Linear
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves navigating the diverse landscape of options available to them. Among the standout choices are the Sarokeys BCP and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear, both of which fall under the linear switch category yet offer unique characteristics that set them apart. The BCP, or Black Cherry Pies, brings a delightful creamy feel coupled with a distinctive poppy and clacky auditory experience, making it an excellent choice for those who relish tactile feedback and sound while typing. On the other hand, the Bumblebee Linear is designed for those who prioritize a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, providing a bright, uncomplicated auditory profile. While both switches invite different preferences—one offering an engaging auditory spectacle and the other ensuring an effortlessly fluid typing experience—each caters to specific user needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
51g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear exhibit distinct characteristics that influence the overall sound profile and typing experience. The BCP's top housing is made of nylon, a classic material known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer composition. This property allows the nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller yet rounder acoustic experience while typing. In contrast, the Bumblebee Linear features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side but remains more muted. Therefore, while both switches aim for a rich sound profile, the materials utilized create different acoustic experiences, with the BCP offering a warmer tone compared to the more controlled sound produced by the Bumblebee Linear.
When examining the bottom housings, both the BCP and Bumblebee Linear use nylon, connecting them in terms of acoustic qualities. As mentioned, nylon's softer characteristics contribute significantly to the overall sound experience, especially with the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the switch. Because both switches feature nylon in the bottom housing, similar outcomes in sound absorption and dampening can be expected here. This shared material allows both switches to exhibit a fuller, rounder tone upon bottoming out, enhancing the tactile experience while typing. Consequently, regardless of the difference in the top housing materials, the nylon bottom housings tie the two models together, providing a consistent feel during key presses.
In summary, the main contrast between the two switches lies in their top housing materials—nylon versus POM—leading to different sound profiles, while they align on the bottom housing with nylon. This combination ensures that while the BCP may deliver a warmer acoustic quality influenced by its nylon top housing, the Bumblebee Linear offers a nuanced and restrained sound due to its POM top. However, the shared nylon characteristic in the bottom housing ensures a unified feel responsible for depth in sound during bottoming out. Ultimately, despite the inherent differences, each switch has the potential to deliver a satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences in acoustics and feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch, we see distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, while the Bumblebee Linear switch offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Bumblebee is easier to press, which can lead to less fatigue during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the BCP's slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Thus, the BCP is on the heavier side, while the Bumblebee is the lighter option, making it more suited for extended use without strain. Overall, both switches provide unique experiences based on user preference regarding typing feel and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch, a clear distinction emerges: the BCP has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Bumblebee Linear extends to 3.6 mm. This means that the BCP offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Bumblebee Linear, making it a more responsive option for those who favor quick key presses, particularly gamers looking for faster reaction times. On the other hand, the Bumblebee Linear, with its longer travel distance, can provide a more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer the tactile feedback of deeper key presses. Thus, choosing between these two switches largely depends on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus a more traditional typing 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 Bsun Bumblebee Linear comes in at $2.99 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
The sound profile of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is characterized by a distinct clacky quality, which lends a crisp and bright auditory experience with each keystroke. This sharp, percussive sound adds a layer of satisfaction when typing, making it an engaging choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch offers a bright sound profile as well, although the specifics regarding its acoustic characteristics remain less detailed. While both switches may share a bright quality, the BCP's unique clacky sound sets it apart, creating a more pronounced auditory presence.
When it comes to feel, the BCP linear switch impresses with a combination of bouncy and creamy sensations. The bouncy feedback gives a lively spring-like response that enhances the typing experience, allowing for enjoyable rebounds with each keypress. Additionally, the creamy feel contributes a silky smoothness that makes each keystroke effortless, resulting in a buttery typing experience. Conversely, the specifications for the Bumblebee Linear's feel have not been disclosed, so a direct comparison cannot be made. Nevertheless, if the Bumblebee switch is designed to prioritize smoothness, users can expect an appealing tactile experience, though potentially lacking the unique combination found in the BCP.
In summary, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch stands out with its unique clacky sound and delightful bouncy and creamy feel, making it a captivating choice for those who enjoy an engaging typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear, while also featuring a bright sound, lacks detailed information on its feel, leaving some aspects of its performance unknown. While both switches may offer satisfying experiences, the characteristics of the BCP provide a more defined auditory and tactile interaction, appealing to enthusiasts who cherish nuance in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a more tactile experience with a bit of auditory feedback, the BCP's 57-gram bottom-out force, along with its unique combination of a bouncy, creamy feel and a clacky sound profile, might be the perfect fit for you. These aspects create an engaging typing experience, particularly for those who enjoy the audible and tactile elements of pressing keys. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch that emphasizes a smooth, seamless keystroke with minimal resistance, the Bumblebee Linear's 50-gram bottom-out force could be more to your liking. This switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience without the clack, making it ideal for quiet environments or for users who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. Ultimately, both switches cater to distinct preferences—choose the BCP for an engaging and auditory experience, or opt for the Bumblebee Linear for a light and smooth touch.
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