Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Melodic. The Sarokeys BCP is a linear switch that is best known for its creamy and bouncy feel, offering a unique typing experience with a poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that stands out for its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing users with a buttery and invigorating feel along with a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. While the BCP is ideal for those seeking a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Melodic is perfect for those who prefer a smooth and crunchy typing sensation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Melodic, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. However, despite sharing the same bottom housing material, the BCP and Melodic differ in their top housing materials, with the BCP featuring a nylon top housing and the Melodic utilizing a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, distinct from the deeper sound produced by the BCP's nylon top housing.
While both switches may share similar bottom housing characteristics due to their use of nylon, the distinction in their top housing materials leads to differences in sound profiles. The BCP's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, more resonant sound. Additionally, the aesthetic difference between the two materials is noted, with the Melodic's clear polycarbonate housing lending itself well to RGB lighting effects, while the BCP's opaque nylon housing provides a classic look. These material discrepancies highlight the impact that housing materials can have on the overall performance and appearance of a switch.
The division of the housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of each keystroke. With the BCP and Melodic utilizing different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of nylon and polycarbonate are distributed across the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction emphasizes the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience and highlights how variations in material composition can result in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, which does not specify its actuation force. However, the Melodic has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the BCP has a bottom out force of 57 grams. This means that the Melodic switch may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the BCP switch for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Melodic switch for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, the BCP has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm compared to the Melodic's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the BCP may appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Melodic may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer deeper key presses. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the switch that best suits your typing style.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 best known for its clacky and percussive sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as resonant and crunchy, providing a higher-pitched and immersive sound with a crisp and crunchy texture. Depending on personal preference, the BCP may be more appealing for those seeking a distinct clacky sound, while the Melodic could cater to individuals looking for a more varied and vibrant auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the BCP is characterized by a bouncy and creamy sensation, offering a spring-like elastic feedback with a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the contrary, the Gateron Melodic switch is known for its buttery and invigorating feel, providing a seamless and uniform keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and snappy tactile response. Both switches offer a unique typing sensation, with the BCP focusing on bounciness and creaminess and the Melodic emphasizing smoothness and invigoration.
Overall, while the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer the clacky and bouncy nature of the BCP or the resonant and invigorating feel of the Melodic, both switches are designed to enhance your typing performance and meet your individual preferences. It is important to consider how the sound and feel of each switch align with your typing style and preferences when making a decision between the two.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, you should consider your preference for a bouncy and clacky typing experience with the BCP or a buttery and invigorating typing sensation with the Melodic. If you enjoy a smooth and buttery feel coupled with pronounced feedback, the Melodic may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a bouncy and clacky sound profile along with a spring-like feedback sensation, the BCP could be the better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
Mentioned in this article
