Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Ink Red mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Sarokeys BCP, a linear switch, offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red, also a linear switch, is known for its smoothness and lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. While the BCP provides a bouncy and clacky feel, the Ink Red offers a silky and polished 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
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Ink Red both use different materials for their top and bottom housing. The BCP utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, creating a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the BCP's nylon housing provides a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and thinner sound of the Ink Red's INK blend housing.
In terms of the impact on typing experience, the housing materials of the BCP and the Ink Red play a significant role. The nylon bottom housing of the BCP contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a smoother and softer typing experience. In contrast, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red adds to the satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile, giving the switch a distinctive clacky feel. When comparing the top housings, the BCP's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound when the key is released, while the Ink Red's INK blend top housing produces a relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp.
While the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Ink Red differ in terms of their sound profiles and typing experience, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The BCP's nylon housing offers a softer and deeper sound profile, creating a duller and rounder typing experience, while the Ink Red's INK blend housing delivers a sharper and thinner sound that is often described as clacky. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, one can see that the BCP has a slightly heavier actuation force at 51 grams compared to the Ink Red's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the BCP at 57 grams is lighter than the Ink Red's 60 grams. The BCP provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Ink Red offers a medium feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Ink Red for longer typing periods, while those who prefer a more substantial push may opt for the BCP. Both switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom-out forces, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it is clear that the BCP has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Ink Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The BCP's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Ink Red's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preferences, with the BCP catering to those seeking a quicker typing experience and the Ink Red catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
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 Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a crispy and clacky sound profile, with a slight chirpy element that sets it apart. Both switches deliver a satisfying sound experience, but the BCP may appeal more to those who enjoy a sharper and more percussive sound, while the Ink Red offers a smoother yet still distinctive auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is characterized by its viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation, providing a lively and rebounding feedback when typing. Additionally, users can expect a creamy type feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience akin to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a silky typing experience with minimal resistance, as well as a mild and polished feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the BCP focusing on a more energetic and bouncy feel, while the Ink Red emphasizes a smooth and refined touch.
Overall, while the Sarokeys BCP and Gateron Ink Red linear switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches provide quality performance in their respective categories. If you are looking for a switch with a sharp and clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, the BCP may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a crispy and slightly chirpy sound profile and a silky, polished feel, the Ink Red could be a more suitable option. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, so you can expect similar levels of satisfaction regardless of which one you choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy, creamy typing experience with a signature clacky sound profile, the Sarokeys BCP switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a smooth, silky typing experience with a neutral sound profile, along with a touch of chirpiness, then the Gateron Ink Red switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your desired typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
