Sarokeys BCP vs. HC Studio Crabapple
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the HC Studio Crabapple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Sarokeys BCP and the HC Studio Crabapple mechanical keyboard switches, both linear options offer unique characteristics for typing enthusiasts to consider. The BCP, known for its creamy and bouncy feel, provides a distinctive clacky sound profile that is sure to appeal to those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Crabapple switch, crafted entirely from POM, offers a frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture with each keystroke. While the BCP is categorized as 'bouncy,' 'creamy,' and 'clacky,' the Crabapple is categorized as 'frictionless,' 'mild,' 'subdued,' and 'textured.' Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the HC Studio Crabapple switches vary in terms of the top and bottom housings. The BCP uses nylon for both the top and bottom housings, whereas the Crabapple utilizes POM for both components. The nylon top housing of the BCP creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Crabapple produces a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the BCP and the Crabapple switches feature nylon for the BCP and POM for the Crabapple. The nylon bottom housing of the BCP contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its top housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Crabapple also creates a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted compared to the top housing. Despite the difference in materials, both switches maintain a consistent sound profile due to the synergy between the top and bottom housings.
Overall, the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the HC Studio Crabapple switches play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While the BCP features nylon for both top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and fuller sound, the Crabapple utilizes POM for a unique and pleasing sound that is more muted and on the deeper side. Despite these differences, both switches offer a consistent sound profile due to the qualities of their respective housing materials. Whether using nylon or POM, typists can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a higher actuation force of 51 grams compared to the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the BCP requires more force to trigger a keystroke. The bottom out force of the BCP is also higher at 57 grams, while the Crabapple has a bottom out force of 45 grams. The BCP is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Crabapple for a smoother typing experience, while others may appreciate the heavier forces of the BCP for a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking a more responsive typing or gaming experience. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the BCP for faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Crabapple for a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a distinctive clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, reminiscent of the iconic Black Cherry Pies it is derived from. On the other hand, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch provides a more subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature that is mild and understated. Depending on personal preference, the BCP switch may be preferred for those who enjoy a more percussive and vibrant auditory experience, while the Crabapple switch may appeal to individuals who prefer a quieter and more understated typing sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Sarokeys BCP switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation combined with a smooth and buttery typing experience. This offers users a lively and rebounding feel with each keystroke, making typing a delightfully tactile experience. In contrast, the HC Studio Crabapple switch offers a frictionless and mild typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the subtle texture felt with each downstroke on the Crabapple switch adds a unique tactile element to the typing journey.
Overall, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the BCP excels in providing a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy sound profile, the Crabapple stands out for its smooth and frictionless feel with a subdued sound signature. Depending on personal preference, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more vibrant and tactile experience with the BCP or a smoother and gentler typing journey with the Crabapple.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Sarokeys BCP linear switch or the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy, creamy typing experience with a signature clacky sound, then the BCP may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a frictionless, mild typing sensation with a subtle, textured feel, along with a subdued sound profile, then the Crabapple may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider your own preferences and needs when making a decision.
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