Sarokeys BCP vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, switches play a pivotal role in shaping the typing experience, and two noteworthy options are the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Hibiscus, both of which are linear switches. The Sarokeys BCP, inspired by the legendary Black Cherry Pies, stands out for its creamy feel and bouncy response, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a tactile yet smooth typing experience. These switches deliver a distinctive clacky auditory signature that adds an engaging element to each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus focuses on providing an ultra-smooth experience, boasting an incredibly light actuation force, making it ideal for rapid typing and gaming scenarios. Although both switches offer a satisfying clacky sound profile, the Hibiscus leans towards a more refined quietness compared to the BCP's poppy resonance. Each switch caters to different preferences, whether you lean towards a more tactile bounce or an ultra-smooth actuation. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Hibiscus feature nylon for both their top and bottom housings, which positions them similarly in the realm of mechanical switches. Nylon is known for its softer composition, allowing it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, switches made with nylon produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing to an auditory experience that many typists find satisfying. In the case of both the BCP and Hibiscus, the shared material characteristics of nylon ensure that users will enjoy a comparable typing sound that is rounder and less sharp compared to switches made from harder plastics.
While both switches utilize nylon for their housings, the tactile experience and sound signature could potentially be influenced by other factors like the switch design or internal mechanisms. The interaction between the top and bottom housings plays a critical role in the overall performance of a mechanical switch. For instance, both housings' contributions combine to yield a consistent sound and feel: the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed, while the top housing affects the release sound when the key resets. Thus, even though they are made from the same material, the perception of sound and tactile feedback can still differ slightly based on any design nuances unique to the BCP or the Hibiscus.
In conclusion, despite the identical choice of housing materials in nylon for both the Sarokeys BCP and HMX Hibiscus, the experience can be shaped by additional design elements that may vary between the two switches. If both switches have similar internal mechanics, the user can expect to achieve comparable auditory results when typing. This commonality in housing material not only offers an assurance of minimized sound sharpness but also highlights how different designs can utilize the same foundational materials to provide unique tactile feedback, catering to diverse typing preferences among users.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The BCP features a heavier actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Hibiscus boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, placing it firmly in the light category. This means that those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Hibiscus more comfortable, while users seeking a more substantial typing experience might opt for the BCP. Ultimately, the BCP is the heavier switch, while the Hibiscus is the lighter option, leading to different user preferences based on the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch measures 3.2 mm, while the HMX Hibiscus linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the BCP the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quick response times due to its more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Hibiscus, with its 3.5 mm distance, offers a more substantial depth that some users may find preferable for a softer landing when pressing keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding travel distances; those who favor speed might gravitate towards the BCP, while those who appreciate a more pronounced key feel might opt for the Hibiscus.
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 Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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, both the Sarokeys BCP and HMX Hibiscus switches deliver a delightful auditory experience. The BCP is known for its clacky, poppy sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality when pressed. This auditory allure not only enhances typing satisfaction but also adds an engaging layer to the overall user experience. While the Hibiscus switches are also said to produce a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound, specific descriptors of their sound profile were not provided. Nevertheless, both switches suggest a bright and engaging acoustic character, making them a treat for those who enjoy auditory feedback in their typing.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys BCP switches shine with their distinctive qualities. They offer a creamy typing sensation characterized by an elastic, bouncy feedback that makes each keystroke feel lively and responsive—a combination that creates an enjoyable, almost playful typing experience. The creamy aspect contributes to a buttery glide across the keys, allowing for effortless typing. The HMX Hibiscus, on the other hand, is said to provide an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, although further details regarding their specific feel were not presented. This suggests that while the BCP offers a unique bouncy and creamy sensation, the Hibiscus focuses on a smoother typing experience. Users who prefer a more traditional linear feel may gravitate toward the Hibiscus, while those seeking a lively and tactile bounce may opt for the BCP.
In conclusion, both the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Hibiscus switches offer excellent auditory and tactile experiences, each catering to slightly different preferences. The BCP is celebrated for its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel, making it ideal for users who appreciate a lively and engaging typing experience. Meanwhile, the Hibiscus promises a smoother and more refined feel, though more specifics about its tactile qualities remain unknown. Together, these switches represent two fantastic options for those venturing into the world of mechanical keyboards, allowing newcomers to find the switch that best matches their writing and gaming styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you find joy in a tactile, bouncy experience with a distinctive clacky sound, the BCP switches will likely resonate with you. Their medium-light bottom-out force of 57 grams provides a balanced resistance that can enhance your typing rhythm, making them suitable for both gaming and productivity tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a feather-light touch with an ultra-smooth, almost effortless keystroke, the HMX Hibiscus might be the better option. With a bottom-out force of just 48 grams, these switches deliver a buttery typing experience, perfect for those who prioritize speed and precision over tactile feedback. In summary, consider the BCP for a more dynamic auditory and tactile experience, while the Hibiscus is ideal when you desire serene smoothness and reduced effort in each keystroke.
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