Sarokeys BCP vs. Everglide Crystal Violet
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch stand out for their unique features. The BCP switch from Sarokeys offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, characterized by a signature clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet switch by Everglide provides a gentle and comfortable tactile feel with a mellow and low-pitched sound profile. While the BCP switch is known for its viscous and elastic sensation, the Crystal Violet switch boasts a light operating force of 45g for a relaxed typing experience. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Everglide Crystal Violet, it is clear that they both prioritize sound profile in their design. The BCP utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet incorporates ABS for both top and bottom housing, resulting in a lower-pitched sound profile. While both materials aim to enhance typing experience through sound, the difference in pitch between nylon and ABS provides a unique auditory experience for users of each switch.
In terms of housing material rarity, the BCP stands out with its use of nylon for both top and bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. This makes the BCP a unique option for enthusiasts who appreciate a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet's use of ABS for both top and bottom housing is relatively rare in the world of switch housings. This rarity adds a level of novelty to the Crystal Violet switch, appealing to users looking for a distinct sound profile in their typing experience.
Interestingly, the impact of the housing material on the overall typing experience differs between the top and bottom housing of a switch. The qualities of the material in the bottom housing are more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, whereas the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. This means that the combination of nylon and ABS in the BCP and Crystal Violet respectively creates a balanced typing experience in terms of sound profile, with each housing material contributing to a different aspect of the typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique and personalized typing experience for users based on their preference for sound and feel.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP has an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Crystal Violet, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, but the BCP requires slightly more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Crystal Violet. This difference may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Crystal Violet and a slightly heavier typing experience with the BCP. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The BCP offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet provides a more substantial depth with its longer travel distance, giving a more satisfying feel when typing. In this case, the BCP is the shorter option, while the Crystal Violet is the longer option for those who prefer a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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 poppy and clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch provides a pleasantly mellow and low-pitched sound, creating a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. While the BCP leans towards a more crisp and bright sound, the Crystal Violet switch offers a more relaxed and bass-heavy tone, perfect for those seeking a gentle typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is best known for its bouncy and creamy feel, characterized by a spring-like elastic feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Similarly, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch also offers a creamy feel, providing a silky sensation as you glide your fingers across the keys with ease. Additionally, the Crystal Violet switch is described as mild and stepped, offering a more gentle typing experience with two stages of tactile feedback.
Overall, if you prefer a more clacky and bouncy typing experience with a sharp sound profile, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you favor a more relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a mellow and low-pitched sound, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch would be the ideal choice. Both switches provide a creamy feel, but the BCP offers a more elastic and lively sensation compared to the gentle and approachable feel of the Crystal Violet. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, then the Sarokeys BCP linear switch would be a great choice for you. The signature poppy sound profile and elastic feedback make it a joyful switch to type on. However, if you prefer a more relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a lower-pitched sound profile, then the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch might be the better option for you. The gentle and comfortable feel, combined with the mellow sound profile, offers a pleasant typing experience that is suitable for a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel when choosing between these two excellent keyboard switches.
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