Sarokeys BCP vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing their options carefully, particularly when comparing switches like the Sarokeys BCP and the Cherry MX Orange. The BCP, known for its creamy, elastic feel and signature poppy and clacky sound, provides an engaging typing experience that captivates those who appreciate an auditory stimulation alongside tactile feedback. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches offer a more refined touch, having been reissued to satisfy demand with enhancements from their original design. While the BCP may appeal to users who enjoy a bouncier key press and a distinct sound profile, the Cherry MX Orange attracts those seeking reliability and the subtlety of a less pronounced auditory experience. Both switches have their unique merits, and choosing between them ultimately depends on individual 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
55g
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
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
The housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Cherry MX Orange switches share a significant similarity in their construction, as both utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon is well-regarded in mechanical keyboard switches for its ability to provide a deep and fuller sound profile, attributed to its softer plastic nature. This characteristic means that both switches will absorb more sound and deliver a more muted auditory experience compared to those made with harder plastics. Consequently, users can expect a consistent acoustic quality from both switches, ensuring a pleasant typing experience that feels rich and resonant.
Despite the identical use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in the BCP and MX Orange switches, it's important to highlight how the distribution of housing contributions affects overall performance. The bottom housing significantly influences the switch's bottom-out feel and sound when the key is fully pressed. Conversely, the top housing primarily affects the sound upon releasing the key. Therefore, while both switches will produce a similar sound profile due to the nylon material in both of their housings, differences in design ethos or manufacturing processes may still yield distinct tactile responses when typing.
In conclusion, users can anticipate comparable results in sound profile and typing feel from the Sarokeys BCP and Cherry MX Orange due to their shared nylon housing materials. This similarity fosters a cohesive typing experience characterized by deeper acoustics and plush tactile feedback. However, potential differences in other aspects of the switch, such as spring tension or actuation force, could still lead to variations in feel even with matching materials. Ultimately, while the foundation of both switches lies in the same quality material, the periphery of their design must be considered to fully appreciate their performance nuances.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unknown. The BCP switch features an actuation force of 51 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Cherry MX Orange, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. This suggests that the BCP may be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. Meanwhile, the lacking bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange leaves a gap in understanding its key feel when fully pressed, as it may cater to those who desire a more cushioned typing experience. Overall, the BCP, with its low actuation and defined bottom out force of 57 grams, delivers a more consistent feedback mechanism, while the MX Orange, though slightly heavier in terms of actuation pressure, remains elusive in terms of complete key travel insight.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the BCP switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Orange switch. For gamers seeking quicker response times, the BCP's 3.2 mm travel may offer a more responsive experience, whereas those who prefer a deeper, more substantial feel might favor the MX Orange with its longer 4 mm travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feedback and responsiveness.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 delivers an engaging auditory experience characterized by its clacky nature. This sharp, crisp, and bright sound profile offers a percussive element that enhances the tactile experience of typing, making each keystroke feel impactful. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch's sound characteristics have not been defined here, so one cannot directly compare their auditory qualities. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound produced by any switch can be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard casing and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the Sarokeys BCP stands out with its unique combination of a bouncy and creamy sensation. The bouncy feedback provides an elastic response that makes typing feel lively and responsive, while the creamy texture offers a smooth, silky typing experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The Cherry MX Orange switch lacks specific feel descriptors in this context, so a comparison cannot be made. However, if the MX Orange offers a similar sensation, you might achieve a comparable typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Sarokeys BCP linear switch presents defined auditory and tactile qualities with its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch's characteristics remain unspecified. The BCP is tailored for those who appreciate a vivid typing experience, whereas the details about the MX Orange need further exploration to understand its qualities fully. Ultimately, if you are captivated by the BCP's sensory feedback, you might seek similar experiences with the MX Orange or consider factors like keyboard setup and keycap materials to tailor the sound and feel to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you crave a lively and engaging typing experience, marked by a unique clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the BCP linear switch is your best bet. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 57 grams makes it forgiving for long typing sessions, while the creamy texture and poppy auditory feedback add a delightful touch. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined and traditional typing experience, the Cherry MX Orange switch may be appealing to you, especially considering its roots in the original sought-after design. Although specific details on the bottom-out force of the MX Orange aren't available, its reputation and design improvements make it ideal for those who want reliable performance without the distinct sound profile of the BCP. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your desires for sound, feel, and typing feedback—giving you the best possible mechanical keyboard experience.
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