Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron North Pole V2 both offer unique experience for typing enthusiasts. The Sarokeys BCP is a linear switch that stands out for its creamy and bouncy typing feel, accompanied by a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 is also a linear switch but is best known for its gummy and subdued sound profile, providing a satisfying and polished typing experience. While the BCP is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Creamy', and 'Clacky', the North Pole V2 is characterized by 'Gummy', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference, so 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
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron North Pole V2, it is clear that they each offer unique qualities based on their construction. The BCP's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic material. While the BCP's nylon bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing also contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile, aligning with its top housing properties.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the BCP and the North Pole V2 ultimately affect the overall sound and feel of the switches in a similar manner. Both nylon and polycarbonate materials play a significant role in creating the unique sound profiles desired by keyboard enthusiasts. Whether it's the deeper and fuller sound of the BCP's nylon housing or the sharper and crisper sound of the North Pole V2's polycarbonate housing, the overall typing experience is enhanced by the distinct qualities of each material. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate for RGB lighting purposes, making them visually appealing options for keyboard customization.
In conclusion, the choice between the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron North Pole V2 ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While the BCP's nylon housing offers a softer and fuller sound, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Both switches excel in their respective sound profiles, with the housing materials playing a crucial role in delivering the desired typing experience. Whether it's the impact on bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing or the sound upon key release from the top housing, each switch offers a unique combination of qualities that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, the BCP has a slightly lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the North Pole V2's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the BCP requires 57 grams, while the North Pole V2 is heavier at 65 grams. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to the variance in weight. The BCP offers a medium-light feel, which is ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the North Pole V2 provides a medium-heavy push, giving a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. 4.0mm is considered a more traditional travel distance, while 3.0 is seen as more shallow. Gamers tend to lean towards switches with shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the BCP a good choice for them. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the North Pole V2 with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and response time.
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 North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 switch offers a clacky profile, known for its sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch provides a subdued sound, offering a dampened tone that is more subtle compared to most switches. Both switches give unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the BCP being more lively and poppy, while the North Pole V2 provides a deeper and more muted sound.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys BCP switch is characterized as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that is smooth and buttery. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with a rebounding feel when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy and creamy typing experience, with a unique sensation that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Both switches offer a smooth and pleasant typing experience, each with its own distinct feel that caters to different preferences.
Overall, both the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have their own strengths and qualities that make them stand out. While the BCP switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, the North Pole V2 switch offers a more subdued sound and a gummy, creamy typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. If you enjoy a lively and poppy sound with a bouncy and buttery feel, the Sarokeys BCP switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more muted sound with a unique gummy typing sensation, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can deliver a satisfying typing experience based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the factors that best suit your preferences. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy, creamy typing experience with a signature clacky sound profile, then the BCP may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gummy, creamy typing feel with a deep, muted sound profile, then the North Pole V2 could be the switch that resonates with you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific tactile and auditory sensations that you find most satisfying in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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