Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, a distinction can be made based on their individual characteristics. The BCP switch from Sarokeys offers a unique creamy and bouncy typing experience with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch is celebrated for its smoothness, thick resistance, and low, "thocky" sound. While the BCP switch is known for its bouncy and clacky feel, the Milky Yellow Pro switch stands out for its buttery smoothness and versatility in both gaming and typing scenarios. Both switches have their merits and cater to different preferences, making it important to delve deeper to determine which switch aligns best with your specific 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
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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 Sarokeys BCP and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on both switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality when using either switch.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing materials, there may be differences in the overall feel and sound signature due to variations in design and construction. The qualities of the top and bottom housings are split between the two switches, with the bottom housing playing a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distribution of qualities may result in subtle differences in typing experience between the Sarokeys BCP and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), despite both switches sharing the same housing material.
In conclusion, while the nylon top and bottom housings of the Sarokeys BCP and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may offer similar sound profiles and typing experiences, it is important to consider other factors such as switch design and construction. These factors can influence the overall feel and sound signature of each switch, potentially leading to differences in typing experience despite the shared housing material. As such, users looking to choose between these switches may want to consider their preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing performance before making a decision.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have some key differences. The BCP has a slightly lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams, making it a bit easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the BCP has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, giving it a more substantial typing experience. In terms of weight, the BCP can be considered lighter overall, making it ideal for users who prefer typing for longer periods without fatigue. Conversely, the Milky Yellow Pro provides a stronger push feel, perfect for users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can see that the BCP has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The BCP's 3.2 mm travel distance makes it ideal for those looking for a quick and responsive typing experience, especially appealing to gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper keystroke feel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial press when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and 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 Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 the realm of sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a distinct clacky profile with sharp, crisp, and percussive tones. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a bassy and thocky sound, characterized by a deeper and richer tone akin to bass frequencies. Depending on personal preference, individuals may favor the lively and poppy nature of the BCP or the smooth and satisfying thockiness of the Milky Yellow Pro. It's important to note that the actual sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycap setup chosen by the user.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys BCP switch delivers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, thanks to its spring-like feedback and smooth, buttery sensation. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a buttery and uniform keystroke experience, with a seamless and effortless feel that some users may find preferable. While some users may appreciate the bouncy and elastic feedback of the BCP, others may lean towards the buttery and textured feel of the Milky Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
In conclusion, both the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The BCP excels in providing a clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy feel, while the Milky Yellow Pro stands out for its bassy and thocky sound with a buttery and textured feel. Depending on whether you prefer a more springy and poppy typing experience or a smooth and uniform keystroke, you can achieve similar typing results with either switch, tailored to your individual preferences and needs. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will vary based on the user's desired sound and feel for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Sarokeys BCP linear switch versus the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking. If you are drawn to a creamy, bouncy feel with a poppy and clacky sound profile, the BCP may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery, smooth typing experience with a low-pitched, thocky sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) could be more suited to your preferences. Both switches have their unique characteristics and strengths, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will depend on your individual typing style and sound preference.
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