Sarokeys BCP vs. HMX KD200

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing the unique offerings of various brands. Two notable contenders in the linear switch category are the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX KD200. The BCP, or Black Cherry Pie, stands out with its creamy typing experience that merges elasticity and bounce, delivering a delightful tactile sensation alongside a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing, without sacrificing a smooth linear action. In contrast, the HMX KD200 boasts an extreme emphasis on sound, earning its reputation as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family. Users seeking a more resonant acoustic response may gravitate towards the KD200, which enhances the expressive side of mechanical typing. Both switches cater to different sensory preferences, making them appealing in their own right. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Sarokeys BCP Linear

HMX KD200 Linear

$5.50

$4.85 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX KD200 exhibit a significant similarity, as both models are constructed with nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared choice of material ensures that both keyboards will deliver a comparable typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The properties of nylon, which includes its softer composition and sound-absorbing qualities, play a pivotal role in shaping the acoustic characteristics of the switches. As a result, whether one is typing on the Sarokeys BCP or the HMX KD200, users can expect the same subdued, rounded sound due to the effects of nylon on both the bottoming out and release of the keys.

Moreover, the consistent use of nylon in both models means that any variations in the overall typing experience will depend significantly on the specific design of the switches rather than the material itself. Since the nylon bottom housing contributes more prominently to the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affects the sound upon release, it can be anticipated that both keyboards will provide a similar typographical feedback and acoustics. The effect of nylon in both the top and bottom components leads to a generally harmonious sound profile across both switches, reinforcing the shared characteristics of the keyboards despite potential differences in other design aspects.

In conclusion, the use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX KD200 establishes a baseline for comparison. Not only does this similarity elevate the sound absorption and overall acoustic quality of both switches, but it also means that typing on either keyboard will yield largely analogous results. Since the acoustic and tactile nuances are predominantly influenced by the nylon material, users can confidently choose either model without worrying about significant differences in performance, ensuring a satisfying and melodic typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The BCP switch requires an actuation force of 51 grams and has a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the KD200 is lighter, with an actuation force of just 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users preferring lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming will find the KD200 more appealing. In terms of feel, the BCP's heavier forces provide a more substantial typing experience, which might be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more resistance when typing. Ultimately, while the BCP offers a medium-light experience, the KD200's lighter actuation and bottom out forces may be ideal for users seeking an effortless keypress.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, the BCP switch features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the KD200 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the BCP offers a shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking rapid response times and quicker keystrokes. Conversely, the KD200, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a more deliberate and satisfying keystroke depth. Thus, your choice between the two switches will hinge on your preference for responsiveness versus depth—choosing the BCP for a brisk feel or the KD200 for a more substantial typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, the BCP is celebrated for its distinctively clacky auditory signature. This sound is characterized by a sharp, snappy quality that resonates with a crisp and bright tone, offering a percussive experience that many enthusiasts seek. The KD200, on the other hand, is known as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, which suggests that it also contributes a prominent sound. Although specific descriptors for the KD200 are not provided, the emphasis on its clackiness hints that it could share a similar, perhaps even more intense, auditory appeal compared to the BCP.

In terms of feel, the BCP linear switch stands out with its unique combination of bounciness and creaminess. The bouncy sensation delivers a spring-like feedback, providing a lively rebound as you type, while the creamy aspect contributes to an exceptionally smooth and buttery experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Unfortunately, no specific details regarding the tactile feel of the KD200 are available, leaving a gap in how it may compare. Without more information, a direct comparison on this aspect is not possible.

In conclusion, those choosing between the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX KD200 can expect a distinct auditory experience from both, with the BCP offering a well-defined clacky sound signature and the KD200 promoting itself as the clackiest in its category. The BCP enhances its appeal with a delightful bouncy and creamy typing feel, which may transpose to a different tactile experience for the KD200, though specifics remain unknown. While the sound quality seems to lean towards an engaging experience in both cases, the tactile feedback of the KD200 warrants exploration to fully understand its characteristics. Overall, for enthusiasts seeking similar auditory experiences, either switch should provide satisfaction in their own right, albeit with differing feel qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lively and tactile experience, the BCP switch is ideal for you, delivering a medium-light 57-gram bottom out force combined with a poppy, clacky sound profile that enhances your typing enjoyment. Its bouncy, creamy feel makes it a delight for longer typing sessions, offering a nice balance of responsiveness and satisfying feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a sleek, clackier sound, the HMX KD200 with its 50-gram bottom out force is your go-to choice. It stands out for its crisp auditory response while providing a softer feel with less resistance, making it suitable for rapid typing or gaming where speed is essential. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what you find most enjoyable—be it the robust character of the BCP or the nimble precision of the KD200.

Mentioned in this article

Sarokeys BCP Linear

$5.50

$4.85 per 10

Learn more

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more