Sarokeys BCP vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sarokeys BCP and Dareu Mahjong are both linear switches that offer unique features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The BCP, known for its creamy and bouncy feel, provides a satisfying typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Mahjong switches stand out with their distinctive green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature. While the BCP is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Creamy', and 'Clacky', the Mahjong is labeled as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POK
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and the Dareu Mahjong both have top housings made of unique materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. The BCP utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Mahjong features a POK top housing, which offers a smooth typing experience with exceptional durability and shock resistance. While both materials have their own advantages, the POK material in the Mahjong outperforms nylon in terms of strength and wear resistance.
In contrast, when it comes to the bottom housings of the BCP and the Mahjong, they both utilize nylon as the housing material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Despite having the same material for the bottom housing, the overall typing experience may still differ slightly between the two keyboards due to the unique design and construction of each switch.
In situations where the top and bottom housings are different for a particular switch, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and the bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This split in housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience with a combination of characteristics from both materials working together to create a distinct typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is evident that the BCP has a higher actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Mahjong's 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the BCP requires 57 grams, while the Mahjong's force is unknown. The BCP can be considered medium-light in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, whereas the Mahjong's force status remains unclear. The weight of a switch is crucial for user preference, as a lighter switch allows for longer typing sessions, ideal for work or gaming, while a heavier switch provides a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a slightly firmer typing feel compared to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch. The BCP switch would provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers for its faster reactions. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying to type on. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are becoming more popular in the market. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either quicker response times or a more substantial key press experience.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 described as having a clacky profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is noted for having a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. This makes it suitable for various environments, depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, both the Sarokeys BCP and Dareu Mahjong switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, the BCP switch is known for its creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when pressing the keys, while the Mahjong switch is described as having a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, while the Sarokeys BCP and Dareu Mahjong linear switches differ slightly in their sound and feel characteristics, they both offer a bouncy sensation when typing. The BCP is known for its clacky sound and creamy feel, while the Mahjong provides a neutral sound and a mild, polished feel. Depending on personal preference and the desired typing experience, both switches can deliver a satisfying performance, with the differences in sound and feel allowing users to tailor their choice based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a bouncy and clacky typing sensation with a creamy feel and poppy sound, the BCP linear switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and polished typing experience with a mild and neutral sound profile, the Mahjong linear switch may be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what feels best for your typing style and sound preference.
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