Sarokeys BCP vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both offer unique characteristics worth exploring. The Sarokeys BCP, a linear switch, provides a bouncy and creamy typing experience with a signature clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, also a linear switch, boasts a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, along with a silky typing feel and enhanced RGB illumination. While both switches have their own appeal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and usage needs. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Sarokeys BCP and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, we see a clear distinction in their housing materials. The BCP features a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder overall sound. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 boasts a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more precise typing experience.
Despite their differences, both the BCP and the Lightning Silver V3 offer distinct advantages based on their housing materials. The nylon housing of the BCP creates a more subdued sound profile that may be preferred by those looking for a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Lightning Silver V3 is better suited for users who enjoy a more precise and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual flair to the overall typing experience that the BCP may not offer.
Ultimately, the choice between the Sarokeys BCP and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 comes down to personal preference. While the BCP offers a softer and fuller sound profile with its nylon housing, the Lightning Silver V3 provides a sharper and crisper sound thanks to its polycarbonate construction. Whether you prioritize sound quality, aesthetics, or typing feel, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help you make an informed decision on which switch best suits your typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is evident that the BCP has a slightly higher actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Lightning Silver V3's 48 grams. However, the bottom out force is higher for the Lightning Silver V3 at 60 grams, while the BCP has a bottom out force of 57 grams. This makes the BCP switch slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Lightning Silver V3 is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force. Both switches fall into the medium range of force, providing a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the BCP. For those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the BCP may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper key press with more travel, the Lightning Silver V3 could be more suitable. Both switches offer a different feel due to their slight difference in travel distance, so it's important to consider your preference when choosing between the two. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more substantial key press.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
The Sarokeys BCP switch is known for its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience when typing. It offers a creamy and bouncy feel, giving users a viscous and elastic sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switch also boasts a clacky sound profile but with a high-pitched element, adding a sharp and crisp tone to the typing experience. In terms of feel, the Lightning Silver V3 switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance. While the BCP and Lightning Silver V3 switches share the clacky sound quality, the BCP provides a bouncier and creamier feel compared to the silky feel of the Lightning Silver V3. Both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance the typing experience, but users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile as they both deliver a sharp and clacky tone.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound, the BCP may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth typing experience with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the Lightning Silver V3 might be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to determine what type of typing experience you value most before making your decision.
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