Sarokeys BCP vs. HMX Cloud - 50g
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Cloud - 50g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Cloud - 50g, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Sarokeys BCP, inspired by the legendary Black Cherry Pies, stands out with its creamy and bouncy typing experience, coupled with a distinctive clacky sound profile that elevates auditory feedback while typing. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate both a tactile sensation and an engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 50g appeals to users seeking a lighter switch with a lively clacky sound, offering a silky-smooth feel that enhances typing comfort for extended use. While both switches cater to enthusiasts who enjoy linear preferences, the choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize the satisfying auditory feedback of the BCP or the effortless keystroke of the Cloud - 50g. 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
42g
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
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Cloud - 50g share an identical housing material composition, utilizing nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This common choice reflects a longstanding preference within the keyboard community for nylon's unique acoustic properties. Typing on either switch will produce a signature deeper and fuller sound profile, characteristic of nylon's softer texture which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, users can expect a similar auditory experience, with the potential for a duller and rounder sound that enhances overall typing satisfaction. This similarity underscores nylon's established reputation as a reliable material for keyboard switches.
While both the BCP and the Cloud - 50g feature the same nylon construction, the way this material influences the typing experience may differ slightly depending on the switch design. The bottom housing tends to dominate the bottom-out sound and tactile feel during key presses, while the top housing impacts the sound on key release. Therefore, even though the materials are the same, variations in switch design could yield subtle differences in how the keyboards feel and sound during use. Users may find that their personal comfort and performance preferences guide them in favor of one switch over the other, despite the shared material.
Ultimately, the integration of nylon in both housing configurations suggests that, regardless of the specific model, users will achieve comparable results in terms of acoustic performance and typing experience. This consistency in material choice not only enhances the sound dynamics but also fosters a familiarity for users transitioning between the two switches. With both the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Cloud - 50g designed to elicit a balanced and enriched sound profile, keyboard enthusiasts will likely appreciate the overall tactile feedback and auditory experience offered by either model.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch present a clear contrast in both actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different user preferences. 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 Cloud switch is lighter with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users favoring a lighter touch and ease of typing for extended periods may find the HMX Cloud switch more comfortable, as it allows for less effort in each keystroke. Conversely, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel, the Sarokeys BCP switch, with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, would be a better fit. Overall, the BCP is the heavier option, while the Cloud - 50g is lighter, allowing users to choose based on their typing and gaming preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch, the BCP has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Cloud - 50g features a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This difference may influence a user's typing experience significantly. For those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, the BCP’s shorter travel distance could provide quicker actuation, catering to gamers who benefit from faster response times. Conversely, the HMX Cloud - 50g, with its more substantial travel distance, may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback for users who prefer a deeper, more pronounced keypress, which can also contribute to improved accuracy in typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences, with the BCP being better suited for those seeking swift keystrokes, while the Cloud - 50g may appeal to users desiring a more robust feel.
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 HMX Cloud - 50g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 50g for $2.99.
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 poppy and clacky auditory allure, which is crisp, bright, and percussive. This engaging sound can enhance the typing experience, providing an enjoyable feedback loop that many enthusiasts seek. Conversely, the HMX Cloud - 50g also boasts a clacky sound profile, albeit with a lighter touch that makes for a bright and lively typing experience. While both switches deliver a clacky sound, the nuances in their auditory feedback may cater to different preferences, with the BCP’s sound being deeper and more resonant versus the Cloud - 50g’s brighter timbre.
In terms of feel, the BCP switch excels in offering a creamy texture paired with a bouncy experience, allowing for a spring-like feedback that makes each keystroke feel lively and responsive. The creamy aspect suggests a buttery smoothness to the keystrokes, which can enhance typing comfort and fluidity. On the other hand, while specific descriptors of the feel for the HMX Cloud - 50g were not provided, it is known for its silky smoothness, which suggests a seamless and effortless typing experience, potentially aligning with the smoother feel found in the BCP but without the additional bounciness. This might result in a more straightforward tactile response compared to the BCP’s lively rebound.
In conclusion, while both the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch provide unique auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to slightly different preferences. The BCP offers a rich and engaging clacky sound along with a creamy, bouncy feel, while the Cloud - 50g provides a lighter, brighter audio feedback paired with smoothness. Choosing between the two may depend on whether one values the rich pop of the BCP or the straightforward silkiness of the Cloud - 50g, but either option promises an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the overall experience you desire. If you enjoy a more tactile and bouncy feel while also appreciating a distinct clacky auditory experience, the BCP switch is the ideal choice for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 57 grams strikes a nice balance between responsiveness and control, and its creamy typing sensation along with the signature poppy sound can enhance your typing joy, especially if you often find yourself typing for extended periods. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams that promotes a quicker actuation, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is likely a better fit. With a bright and smooth feel, this switch caters to those who prioritize a lightweight, responsive typing experience and a clacky sound profile without as much resistance. In essence, your choice should reflect whether you favor a more dynamic and lively typing feel or a faster, effortless keystroke.
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