Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two notable candidates are the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Magnetic Jade. The BCP, known for its creamy feel and bouncy action, brings a playful and tactile typing experience that is characterized by its signature poppy and clacky sound profile. This linear switch stands out for its streamlined design, eliminating the tedious process of disassembly and reassembly typically associated with Frankenswitches, making it an attractive option for users who appreciate ease of use without sacrificing auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches leverage Hall Effect technology to deliver a bright and clacky sound, enhancing the overall acoustics of your typing experience. Ideal for those looking to upgrade their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard, these switches promise durability and consistent performance. While both switches cater to enthusiasts with differing preferences, it's essential to weigh their distinct characteristics to find your ideal fit. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Magnetic Jade, a distinct contrast arises between their top housings. The BCP features a nylon top housing, celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic allows the housing to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for yielding a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer structure. The differences in material not only affect the acoustic properties but also have implications for the overall feel and responsiveness when typing. Thus, while the BCP may provide a warmer sound profile, the Magnetic Jade is likely to deliver a brighter and more defined sound experience.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Magnetic Jade use nylon, which harmonizes their sound profiles in an interesting way. Since nylon is a classic switch housing material, it contributes to a deeper and fuller sound for both switches. This shared material choice means that when typing on either switch, the bottom-out sound and feel will resonate similarly due to the dampening qualities of nylon. Consequently, the nylon bottom housing allows for a consistent user experience in terms of depth and tone, regardless of the differences noted in the top housing materials.
When evaluating the overall performance and sound characteristics of these two switches, the interplay between the top and bottom housings becomes crucial. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, with its polycarbonate top, creates a distinct sound when releasing a key, while the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a comparable depth and fullness upon bottoming out. Therefore, despite the different top materials that create contrasting auditory experiences, the use of nylon in the bottom housing unifies their sound profiles in a complementary manner. This dual material approach illustrates how the overall performance of a switch is not solely dictated by a single housing type but rather by the synergy between different materials used throughout.
Weight
Comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch reveals notable differences in their actuation forces while highlighting a similarity in their bottom out forces. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 51 grams, making it feel somewhat heavier than the Gateron Magnetic Jade, which has a notably lighter actuation force of just 30 grams. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions might gravitate more towards the Magnetic Jade switch, as it requires less effort to register a keystroke. However, both switches share a bottom out force of 55 grams, which means they provide a similar level of resistance when pressed fully down. For those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, the BCP with its heavier actuation force may be more appealing, while those seeking a lighter touch will find the Gateron Magnetic Jade more suited to their needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, the BCP features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Magnetic Jade has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the BCP switch provides a shorter distance, making it ideal for those who prefer a more responsive feel, particularly beneficial for gamers looking for faster response times. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade's longer travel distance could be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial and hearty depth in their key presses, as the additional 0.3 mm may create a less abrupt experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for responsiveness versus depth in key travel.
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 Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is characterized by its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, producing a crisp, vibrant auditory experience with every keystroke. This clackiness offers a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that many typists cherish. On the other hand, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches also embrace a clacky sound, specifically designed for enhancing the acoustic experience of any keyboard, detailed descriptions of their sound profile are limited. However, the emphasis on a bright and clacky sound suggests a potentially similar auditory presence that could align closely with that of the BCP switches, calibrated for a lively typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys BCP switches stand out with their unique combination of bounciness and creaminess. The bouncy aspect provides a spring-like, elastic feedback that makes each keystroke feel lively, while the creamy sensation evokes a smooth and buttery typing experience, reminiscent of gliding fingers over the keys effortlessly. The flexibility of these tactile characteristics can be particularly satisfying for users who prefer a responsive and pleasant typing environment. Details surrounding the feel of the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches remain unspecified, leaving room for curiosity. Without specific descriptors, one can only speculate on their touch characteristics, but given their reputation in the community, they are likely to offer a high-quality, engaging typing experience as well.
In conclusion, both the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches share a common ground in their clacky sound profiles, appealing to those who enjoy an energetic auditory feedback while typing. The BCP switches, however, further distinguish themselves with their bouncy and creamy tactile sensations, ensuring a distinctive typing experience. While the specifics regarding the feel of the Magnetic Jade switches are absent, their acoustic brightness suggests they could provide a similarly engaging experience, making either option a worthwhile consideration depending on your preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. If you appreciate a lively and engaging tactile feedback combined with a distinct auditory signature, the BCP might be the better fit for you. Its creamy feel and bouncy response provide an enjoyable typing experience, complemented by its signature clacky sound that’s sure to satisfy those who cherish auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you are seeking a unique switch reliability and enhanced acoustics for a more stable typing experience, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is an excellent choice. Its lower actuation force offers a light touch while still delivering a bright, clacky sound that can elevate your typing game. In summary, if you want a fun, lively switch with personality, go for the BCPs. However, if you prioritize stability and superior acoustics, the Magnetic Jade is the way to go. Consider your typing habits and preferences as you make your choice, and you’ll surely enhance your mechanical keyboard experience!
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