Sarokeys BCP vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX EMO, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Sarokeys BCP is a linear switch known for its creamy and bouncy feel, offering a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX EMO is also a linear switch but is characterized by its lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. While the BCP provides a more viscous typing experience, the EMO offers a smoother and effortless feel, thanks to its factory-lubed design. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX EMO, we can see that there are distinct differences in the top housing materials. The BCP utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the EMO features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic makeup. The choice of material in the top housing significantly affects the sound produced by the switches, with nylon offering a duller sound compared to the clearer, resonant sound of polycarbonate.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials of the BCP and EMO switches, we find that both switches use nylon. This means that despite any differences in the sound profile produced by the top housing materials, the bottom housings of both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorbent nature of nylon. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches allows for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound, creating a more uniform feel across both switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX EMO plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the switches. While the nylon top housing of the BCP provides a deeper sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing of the EMO offers a sharper and crisper sound. However, since both switches use nylon in the bottom housing, they share a commonality in producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Understanding how these housing materials affect the typing experience can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the HMX EMO linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The BCP has a slightly higher actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it medium-light in terms of resistance. On the other hand, the HMX EMO boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. This difference results in the EMO feeling lighter and easier to type on compared to the BCP. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the HMX EMO would be the ideal choice. However, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the BCP despite its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and desired force level.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the EMO linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the BCP switch. The 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in the feel and response of the key press. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the BCP switch with the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the EMO switch with the longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different typing experience, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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 EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 it comes to sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is known for its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a lively and clacky sound with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. Both switches aim to deliver a crisp and bright sound that adds to the overall typing experience, but the specific characteristics of each switch may appeal to different preferences.
Moving on to feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is described as bouncy and creamy, offering a viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation when typing. The keys provide a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience that is satisfying and smooth. Meanwhile, the HMX EMO linear switch provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is also satisfying and smooth, albeit with a different feel. Both switches prioritize a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, but the specific tactile feedback and key response may vary between the two.
In conclusion, both the Sarokeys BCP and HMX EMO linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the BCP excels in delivering a poppy and clacky sound profile with a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, the EMO focuses on providing a lively and clacky sound with a feather-light bottom-out force and a smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with distinct characteristics that cater to different needs. Ultimately, exploring both options and experimenting with different switches can help in finding the perfect match for a newcomer in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between Sarokeys BCP linear switches and HMX EMO linear switches, consider the following guidelines: opt for the BCP if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force of 57 grams, enjoy a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, select the EMO if you prefer a lighter 46-gram bottom-out force, appreciate a lively and clacky feel, and prefer an exceptionally factory-lubed, smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for bottom-out force, typing feel, and sound profile.
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