Sarokeys BCP vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and Cherry MX Brown stand out as popular choices with their unique characteristics. The Sarokeys BCP, a linear switch, offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown, a tactile switch, provides a subtle typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. Depending on your preference, you may opt for the BCP for its bouncy and creamy feel, or the MX Brown for its textured and low-pitched feedback. 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
55g
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
No
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
The housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and Cherry MX Brown switches are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. With both switches utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While both the BCP and MX Brown switches share the same nylon housing materials, they may differ in terms of design and construction. The placement of the nylon top and bottom housing within each switch can impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing of a switch can influence the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing may affect the sound when a key is released. These differences in housing design can result in slight variations in typing feedback and sound profile between the Sarokeys BCP and Cherry MX Brown switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and Cherry MX Brown switches play a significant role in shaping the typing experience for users. Both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, allowing for a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. While there may be differences in housing design between the two switches, the overall impact on typing feedback and sound is likely to be comparable due to the shared use of nylon as the housing material. Ultimately, choosing between the BCP and MX Brown switches may come down to personal preference in terms of design and any subtle differences in typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the BCP requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 51 grams compared to the MX Brown's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the BCP also has a heavier requirement of 57 grams compared to the MX Brown's 55 grams. Both switches fall under the category of medium-light in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The weight of a switch is essential for different preferences; lighter switches are favored for extended typing or gaming sessions, while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces may differ slightly between the two switches, they both offer a similar medium-light typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, we find that the BCP has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm compared to the MX Brown's 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can significantly impact the typing experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the BCP with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more solid and deliberate key press may opt for the MX Brown with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a different feel and response, but by selecting the one with the preferred travel distance, users can maximize their typing comfort and efficiency.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 offers a distinctive clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp and percussive. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the bright and clacky sound of the BCP, while others may enjoy the mellow and bass-heavy audio feedback of the MX Brown.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is characterized by a bouncy and creamy typing experience. The keys have a spring-like elasticity, offering a lively sensation with a smooth and buttery feel. On the contrary, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is known for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may appreciate the silky sensation and rebound of the BCP, while others may prefer the subtle texture of the MX Brown for a more tactile typing experience.
Overall, both the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience, users may gravitate towards the clacky and bouncy nature of the BCP or the bassy and textured feel of the MX Brown. Whichever switch is chosen, both options provide quality performance and satisfying input feedback for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between Sarokeys BCP linear switches and Cherry MX Brown tactile switches, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a creamy, bouncy feel with a signature clacky sound profile, the BCP switches may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtler tactile feedback with a gentle typing experience and a bassy, low-pitched sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will come down to personal typing style and desired sound and feel characteristics. So, make sure to test out both options to see which one aligns best with your typing preferences.
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