Sarokeys BCP vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sarokeys BCP and the TTC Iron are both linear mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The BCP, derived from the iconic Black Cherry Pies, offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a signature clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Iron is known for its pronounced clacky sound signature, light actuation, and buttery smooth travel. While the BCP provides a unique tactile feel, the Iron promises swift and fatigue-free typing sessions. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but deciding between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the TTC Iron, it is clear that both switches prioritize creating a deeper and fuller sound profile for users. The BCP utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. On the other hand, the Iron features a POM top and bottom housing, which also aims to generate a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper and more muted side. Despite their differences in material, both switches ultimately deliver a similar result in terms of sound profile, with a focus on creating a deeper and fuller typing experience for users.
However, where the BCP and TTC Iron differ is in the specific qualities that each housing material brings to the overall sound profile of the switch. The nylon top housing of the BCP emphasizes a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Iron creates a more muted sound that still maintains depth and uniqueness. Similarly, the bottom housings of the BCP and Iron also play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the impact of bottom-out sounds and keystrokes.
While the BCP and TTC Iron both strive to enhance the typing experience with their housing materials, the choice between nylon and POM ultimately comes down to personal preference. Those who prefer a softer, rounder sound may lean towards the BCP with its nylon housing, while individuals seeking a more unique and muted sound profile may find the Iron with its POM housing more appealing. Regardless of the specific housing material used, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with a focus on creating a deeper and fuller sound that is sure to satisfy keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch and TTC Iron linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The BCP has a higher actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Iron's 41 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the BCP requires 57 grams while the Iron only needs 50 grams. The BCP switch can be considered medium-light in terms of force, while the Iron switch is on the lighter side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the TTC Iron switch would be the ideal choice, as it requires less force both for actuation and bottom out. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Sarokeys BCP switch with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and the overall typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the BCP has a shorter travel distance compared to the Iron switch. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for some users. Both options fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular today. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press 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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 TTC Iron switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This gives a satisfying auditory feedback to the typist, creating an immersive typing experience. While individual preferences may vary based on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches offer a similar sound profile that is crisp, bright, and percussive.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys BCP switch is noted for its bouncy and creamy typing experience. The keys provide a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation, coupled with a smooth and buttery feel that enhances the overall typing comfort. On the other hand, the TTC Iron switch offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, with gentle resistance during key presses and minimal force required for activation. These switches aim to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions while providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Sarokeys BCP and TTC Iron switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the BCP provides a bouncy and creamy typing experience with a signature clacky sound profile, the Iron focuses on easy-to-press and mild characteristics with its pronounced clacky sound. Depending on personal preferences for typing feel and sound, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts and daily users alike. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether the typist prefers a more elastic and buttery feel or a lighter, easy-to-press option in their mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and seek a creamy, bouncy feel with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, the Sarokeys BCP switch would be an ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and value a pronounced clacky sound signature with swift, fatigue-free typing sessions and buttery smooth travel, the TTC Iron linear switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the switch that aligns best with your desired typing feel and sound profile.
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