Sarokeys BCP vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Sarokeys BCP and the Dareu Firefly. The Sarokeys BCP is a linear switch known for its creamy type feel and signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that offers a very light actuation with just a hint of clickiness, making it easy to press and chirpy. While the BCP provides a bouncy and creamy typing experience, the Firefly offers a quiet and light touch without the classic clicky 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
N/A
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
Partial box
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 Sarokeys BCP and the Dareu Firefly both use nylon in their bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the BCP features a nylon top housing, while the Firefly incorporates a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Firefly creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the BCP's nylon top housing, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffer nature that leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile.
Despite both switches having nylon bottom housings, the differences lie in their respective top housings. The BCP's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound, while the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound with more clarity and resonance. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Firefly is beneficial for switches featuring RGB lighting due to its translucency, offering a visually appealing option. Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate top housings will impact the sound profile and typing experience of the switch, catering to different preferences and needs of users.
When the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, the qualities of each housing material will play a role in different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a more significant impact when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall sound profile. Understanding the characteristics of each housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their desired sound and feel preferences for a customized typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it is evident that the BCP switch is heavier in terms of actuation force at 51 grams compared to the Firefly's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the BCP at 57 grams is also heavier than the Firefly's unknown bottom out force. The BCP provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Firefly's force information is unavailable for comparison. Considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Firefly for longer typing periods or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier BCP for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, we can see that the BCP has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Firefly has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The BCP's shorter travel distance might be preferred by gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Firefly's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer more depth when pressing a key. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so it's important to consider your personal preferences and needs when choosing between the two.
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 Dareu Firefly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Firefly for $3.76.
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 is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offers a chirpy sound with a hint of clickiness, providing a unique acoustic signature. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the BCP offering a louder and more pronounced click compared to the quieter and more subtle sound of the Firefly.
Moving on to feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. While the BCP switch provides a more tactile and responsive typing feel with a lively rebound, the Firefly switch focuses on effortless and comfortable typing, reducing finger fatigue during extended use.
Considering all the available information, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and Dareu Firefly tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The BCP excels in providing a clacky and bouncy typing experience, while the Firefly opts for a quieter and smoother typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. It's important to consider factors such as typing speed, typing environment, and keycap preferences to determine which switch would best suit your needs. Additionally, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience but cater to different preferences, so selecting the right switch for you is crucial in maximizing your comfort and productivity while typing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a bouncy and clacky feel with a medium-light bottom out force, then the BCP switch would be a great choice for you. The BCP offers a creamy typing sensation and a signature poppy sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer an easy-to-press switch with a light actuation force and a quiet typing experience, then the Firefly switch might be more suitable for you. The Firefly offers a light actuation with just a hint of clickiness and a chirpy sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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