Sarokeys BCP vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The BCP offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro provides a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback, with a low-pitched and polished sound profile that is perfect for those who prefer a more understated and distraction-free typing experience. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and TTC Gold Brown Pro both use nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the BCP's top housing is made of nylon, while the Gold Brown Pro's top housing is made of polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. The use of clear polycarbonate in the Gold Brown Pro is also beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The BCP's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings affects the overall typing experience with each switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the choice of housing materials for the Sarokeys BCP and TTC Gold Brown Pro greatly impacts the sound profiles and overall typing experience. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in top housing materials - nylon for the BCP and polycarbonate for the Gold Brown Pro - results in distinct sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound from the BCP with its nylon top housing or a sharper and crisper sound from the Gold Brown Pro with its polycarbonate top housing, the housing materials play a significant role in the overall feel and sound of these switches.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 51 grams compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the BCP is 57 grams, while it is unavailable for the Gold Brown Pro. This means that the BCP requires a bit more force to fully press down the key compared to the Gold Brown Pro. If weight is a factor for you, the BCP may be a better option for those who prefer a medium-light actuation force, while the Gold Brown Pro may be more suitable for those looking for a slightly lighter typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the BCP has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gold Brown Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The BCP's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer slightly different experiences due to their travel distances, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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
In terms of sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is known for its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, which is sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offers a more subdued and subtle sound profile, characterized by a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound that is deep, rich, satisfying, and mellow. The Gold Brown Pro's sound is more understated and gentle, allowing for a quieter typing experience that is less distracting. Factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps will also influence the overall sound produced by these switches.
Regarding feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch provides a creamy and bouncy typing experience, characterized by a smooth, buttery sensation with elastic feedback that gives a lively and spring-like feel to the keys. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offers a polished and silky typing experience, with a refined and smooth finish that reduces friction and enhances key travel. The Gold Brown Pro switch is mild, subtle, and stepped, providing a gentle resistance and a more approachable typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. Both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, but the BCP leans towards a livelier and bouncier feel, while the Gold Brown Pro focuses on a smoother and more refined typing experience.
Overall, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The BCP is characterized by its clacky sound and bouncy feel, providing a more energetic typing experience, while the Gold Brown Pro excels in its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, coupled with a polished and silky feel that emphasizes smoothness and refinement. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing experience, both switches cater to different needs and preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a bouncy and clacky typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the BCP may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle and polished typing feel with a gentle tactile bump and a low-pitched, thocky sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a lively and clacky typing sensation or a refined and understated tactile experience. Choose wisely to enhance your typing efficiency and enjoyment.
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