Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The BCP from Sarokeys provides a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a distinctive clacky sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a creamy and responsive feel while typing. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown from Gateron offers a more traditional tactile feedback with a medium-heavy weight keystroke. These switches are known for their polished and stepped design, providing a reliable performance with a touch of elegance. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Jupiter Brown, we can see that the BCP features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Jupiter Brown has a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom housing. Both switches have nylon in their bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. However, the BCP's top housing being nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. This contrast between the top housing materials defines the overall sound experience of each switch.
It is interesting to note that the BCP and the Jupiter Brown both incorporate nylon in their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. However, the difference in their top housing materials significantly affects the sound output of each switch. The BCP's nylon top housing adds to a duller sound quality, while the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. This demonstrates how the choice of housing material, especially in the top housing, can greatly impact the overall sound characteristics of a switch.
In terms of functionality and feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when pressing a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing the key. The split between different housing materials in the BCP and the Jupiter Brown allows for a varied typing experience, with the bottom housing providing a deeper impact on the switch's sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing of a switch can drastically alter the overall typing experience, offering users different sound profiles to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the BCP is the lighter option while the Jupiter Brown is the heavier option. The BCP has an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, resulting in a medium-heavy typing experience. This means that the BCP would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged use, such as in an office setting or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown would be better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the BCP switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Jupiter Brown switch may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing which one would better suit your typing or gaming needs.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it's worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard, keycaps, and overall setup.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a unique combination of bouncy and creamy sensations, providing a lively and elastic feedback when typing. The keys feel viscous and bouncy, with a creamy smoothness that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is described as mild, polished, and stepped. These switches offer a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The stepped characteristic provides a more subtle tactile feedback compared to more pronounced switches.
Overall, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer distinct experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the BCP excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, the Jupiter Brown switches focus on a more traditional and polished tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. However, based on the available information, it can be concluded that both switches are crafted with high-precision molds and offer enhanced performance, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider the weight of the switch that feels most comfortable to you during typing. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy, creamy typing experience with a signature clacky sound, then the BCP may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more polished, mild feel with a stepped tactile feedback, along with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, then the Jupiter Brown may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
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