Sarokeys BCP vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Darling stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The Sarokeys BCP, a rendition of the iconic Black Cherry Pies, offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Darling provides a chewy and substantial sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched, resonant sound. While both switches offer bouncy and clacky characteristics, the Darling includes high-pitched and resonant qualities not found in the BCP. 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
53g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Darling lies in the top housing. The BCP utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. In contrast, the Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile because of its stiffer properties. The choice between these two materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound, while polycarbonate delivers a clear and resonant sound.
On the other hand, both the BCP and the Darling share the same nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deep and full sound profile when typing on the switches. This similarity in bottom housing material results in a consistent typing experience between the two keyboards, with a focus on creating a sound that is rich and satisfying. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that users can enjoy a consistent tactile feel and sound output across both keyboards, regardless of the differences in their top housings.
In terms of overall typing experience, the choice between the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Darling will depend on individual preferences for sound profile. While both keyboards offer a deep and full sound due to the shared nylon bottom housing, the BCP delivers a duller and rounder sound with its nylon top housing, while the Darling provides a crisper and sharper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Whether one prefers a softer, more muted typing experience or a clearer, more resonant sound, the housing materials of these keyboards play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing feel and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall under the category of medium-light in terms of force. The BCP has a slightly higher actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Darling's 45 grams, but both require a similar bottom out force of 57 grams and 53 grams, respectively. This means that while the BCP may feel slightly heavier to initially actuate, the overall typing experience in terms of force required to press the key all the way down is very similar between the two switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Darling may be the preferred choice, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the BCP. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience without being too heavy or too light in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the KTT Darling linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press with a bit more depth, the Darling switch might be more appealing due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance is preferred for a satisfactory 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 KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, both are described as having a clacky sound profile. This means that they both produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, giving users that satisfying auditory feedback. However, the Darling switch offers an additional high-pitched and resonant sound that adds to the overall typing experience, providing a more immersive auditory experience compared to the BCP switch.
In terms of feel, both switches are described as bouncy, providing users with a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation when typing. The BCP switch also offers a creamy typing experience, characterized by a smooth and buttery feel that adds to the overall typing comfort. On the other hand, the Darling switch focuses more on the substantial and chewy feel, evoking a sense of satisfaction with each keystroke.
Overall, both the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the BCP switch excels in providing a creamy feel and clacky sound profile, the Darling switch stands out with its substantial feel and resonant sound. Depending on whether you prefer a smoother typing experience or a more substantial feel, either switch would provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that will please mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking different tactile and auditory sensations.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Sarokeys BCP linear switch or the KTT Darling linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a switch with a creamy and bouncy feel, along with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, then the Sarokeys BCP switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a chewy and substantial typing sensation, combined with a pronounced bounciness and a resonant, high-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Darling switch may be more suited to your liking. Both switches have a medium-light bottom out force, so you can expect a similar level of actuation force from either option. Ultimately, the decision between the BCP and Darling switches boils down to your individual preferences for feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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