Sarokeys BCP vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to contemplate are the Sarokeys BCP, a linear switch, and the Dareu Holly, a tactile switch. The Sarokeys BCP is known for its creamy and bouncy feel, offering a unique typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly stands out with its medium 50g actuation force and a sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, catering to those seeking a balanced and distinctive typing sensation. Each switch has its own set of characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
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 housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and Dareu Holly switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The BCP utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This creates a duller and rounder sound that can be appealing to some users. On the other hand, the Holly features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a brighter typing experience.
Despite their differences, both the BCP and Holly switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing material. This means that users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile when typing on either switch, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound. However, the contrast lies in the top housing material, with the BCP using nylon and the Holly using polycarbonate. The translucency of polycarbonate in the Holly switch's top housing allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal that may be preferred by those who enjoy customizing their setups.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note that each material brings unique qualities to the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction is important for users who prioritize a specific sound profile or typing sensation, as the choice between nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing can significantly alter the overall typing experience of the Sarokeys BCP and Dareu Holly switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it is evident that the BCP is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force at 51 grams compared to the Holly's 50 grams. However, the BCP requires a slightly higher bottom out force of 57 grams, while the bottom out force of the Holly is unknown. This indicates that the BCP may provide a slightly more tactile typing experience due to the higher bottom out force required. In terms of weight, the BCP is slightly heavier overall compared to the Holly. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Holly, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may prefer the BCP. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force, but the key difference lies in the bottom out force requirement.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it a shorter travel distance compared to the Dareu Holly tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The BCP's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Holly's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference 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 Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly 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 offers a clacky auditory experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, providing a crisp and percussive typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch presents a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a distinctive sound profile that caters to users seeking a balanced and engaging typing sensation. While both switches offer different sound qualities, they each bring their own flair to enhance the user's overall typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch provides a bouncy and creamy typing sensation. The keys offer a viscous, elastic, and bouncy feedback, giving a lively feel with a smooth and buttery touch. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the Dareu Holly tactile switch is not available. Nevertheless, users can expect a unique tactile feedback from the Holly switch based on its description, which could potentially offer a contrasting feel compared to the BCP linear switch.
Overall, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch offer users distinct qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel, providing a variety of options to cater to different preferences. While the BCP switch delivers a clacky sound profile with a bouncy and creamy feel, the Holly switch presents a blend of chirpy and clacky sounds, with a tactile feedback that may vary from the BCP switch. Ultimately, users can expect an enhanced typing experience with either switch, tailored to their specific needs and preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the Sarokeys BCP linear switch or the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force and prefer a creamy, bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, then the BCP may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium 50g actuation force and are looking for a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Holly tactile switch could be more suited to your taste. Take into account the characteristics of each switch and determine which factors align best with your typing needs and preferences to make an informed decision.
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