Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Sarokeys BCP is renowned for its bouncy and creamy type feel, providing a unique tactile experience with a poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow offers a smoother and more polished typing experience with a shorter travel distance, ideal for those looking for a balance between laptop and standard mechanical keyboard typing. While the BCP is characterized by its signature bounciness and clackiness, the Ink Yellow is known for its smoothness and mild clackiness. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 Yellow both have unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The BCP utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gateron Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile. The BCP's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, whereas the INK blend bottom housing of the Gateron Ink Yellow is characterized by a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound described as clacky.
Although both switches have different top and bottom housing materials, they both bring distinct qualities to the overall sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. The softer nylon material of the BCP absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the INK blend material of the Gateron Ink Yellow produces a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky.
In conclusion, the choice between the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Ink Yellow will depend on the sound profile and feel that the user prefers. The BCP's nylon housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gateron Ink Yellow's INK blend material produces a higher-pitched and clacky sound. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making it important for users to consider their desired typing experience before making a decision.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The BCP switch has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a medium-light typing feel. In contrast, the Ink Yellow switch requires a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, resulting in a medium-heavy typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the BCP switch more suitable for longer typing sessions, while individuals looking for a more solid push feel may prefer the Ink Yellow switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The BCP switch may provide a slightly quicker and more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, while the Ink Yellow switch offers a bit more depth to the key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for the specific feel and feedback desired. Both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so it may be best to try both to see which one suits your typing or gaming style better.
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 Yellow 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 Yellow 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
When comparing the sound of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, one can expect a significant difference in auditory experience. The BCP switch is known for its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. In contrast, the Ink Yellow switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. However, both switches share a clacky sound descriptor, which means that users can expect a similar level of sharpness and snappiness when typing on either switch, although the specific nuances may vary depending on other factors such as keyboard and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys BCP switch is characterized by a bouncy and creamy typing experience. The bouncy sensation offers a spring-like feedback that is elastic and lively, while the creamy feel provides a smooth and buttery sensation akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a milder typing experience with a polished finish, providing a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the specific qualities differ between the two switches, both offer an approachable typing experience that falls within the middle-ground zone of comfort and usability.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offer unique and distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the BCP switch excels in providing a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy sound profile, the Ink Yellow switch offers a more neutral and polished feel with a milder sound profile. Users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, with the choice ultimately depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between Sarokeys BCP linear switches and Gateron Ink Yellow linear switches, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a bouncy and clacky typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, then the BCP switches may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more polished typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Gateron Ink Yellow switches might be more up your alley. Ultimately, whether you prioritize sound or feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. So, consider what matters most to you in a switch and choose accordingly.
Mentioned in this article
