Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The BCP, a linear switch, is well-known for its creamy and bouncy typing experience, accompanied by a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver, also a linear switch, stands out for its lightning-fast responsiveness and budget-friendly price point. While the BCP provides a more tactile and auditory experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers enhanced gaming performance with its shorter travel distance and vibrant RGB lighting. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver in terms of housing materials lies in their top housing. The BCP features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material affects the overall sound quality of the switches, with the BCP offering a more mellow sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's clearer and more resonant sound.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver use nylon material. This consistency in bottom housing material means that both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile, as nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties that create a rounder and duller sound. Therefore, despite the difference in top housing materials, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing of these switches.
Overall, the choice between the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver will largely depend on the preferred sound profile. If a user prefers a softer and more mellow sound, the BCP's nylon top housing would be the better option. On the other hand, if a sharper and crisper sound is preferred, the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing would be more suitable. However, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of bottom housing material, with nylon providing a consistent deep and full sound profile for users who prioritize sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter in both aspects. The BCP has an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it medium-light, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it light. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Silver for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those looking for a bit more resistance may opt for the BCP. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options based on their preference for force in a switch.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The BCP linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch. This means that the Sarokeys BCP linear switch may provide a faster response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize quick reactions. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch provides a bit more depth when pressed, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more tactile feedback when typing. Overall, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, and the choice between them will ultimately depend on personal preference and the specific usage scenario.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 best characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, offering a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, offering a deeper, richer, and more bass-heavy tone during key presses. Both switches provide unique sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience, depending on individual preferences and use cases.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is renowned for its bouncy and creamy typing sensation. The keys provide a spring-like and elastic feedback, giving users a lively feel and bounce when pressed, while also offering a smooth and buttery typing experience reminiscent of gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. Similarly, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing users with a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation that enhances the overall keystroke experience. Both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying feel that can cater to different typing styles and preferences.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch each have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the BCP offers a signature clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver brings a bassy, low-pitched sound and a buttery, creamy typing experience to the table. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to tailor their mechanical keyboard experience to suit their needs. Whether opting for the Sarokeys BCP or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, users can expect a high-quality performance that enhances their typing or gaming sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy and creamy typing experience with a poppy and clacky sound profile, the Sarokeys BCP switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter bottom out force and seek a gaming-oriented switch with a shorter travel distance for faster responsiveness, as well as a bassy and low-pitched sound profile with vibrant RGB lighting, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing or gaming preferences to enhance your overall experience with your mechanical keyboard.