Sarokeys BCP vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it's evident that both options offer unique features that appeal to different preferences. The Sarokeys BCP provides a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile and audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch offers a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a smoother and more subdued 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
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The BCP utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom, while the Cream uses POM for both. The difference in materials results in different sound profiles, with the BCP offering a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Cream provides a unique and pleasing sound with a deeper profile that is relatively more muted.
One key difference between the BCP and the Cream lies in the specific qualities of their housing materials. The BCP's nylon housing creates a softer and more absorbent sound profile, resulting in a dulled and rounded sound when typing. In contrast, the Cream's POM housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique and pleasing typing experience. While both switches aim to enhance the sound and feel of typing, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in shaping the overall user experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, both switches ultimately aim to provide an enhanced typing experience through their unique sound profiles. The BCP's combination of nylon top and bottom housings results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Cream's POM housings create a more pleasing and muted sound profile. Whether choosing the BCP or the Cream, users can expect a distinct typing experience based on the specific qualities of each housing material. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch both offer smooth keystrokes, but there are some key differences between the two in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The BCP has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Cream's 55 grams, making it more conducive for longer typing sessions due to its lighter touch. Additionally, the BCP has a lower bottom out force of 57 grams compared to the Cream's 70 grams, resulting in a softer landing when fully pressed. On the other hand, the Cream switch provides a heavier actuation force and bottom out force, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing strength and pressure sensitivity. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force depending on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the BCP has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cream switch. The shorter travel distance of the BCP may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Cream switch may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 poppy sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a deeper and more bass-heavy tone compared to other switches. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the BCP offering a more vibrant and lively sound while the Cream switch provides a more mellow and immersive auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is best described as bouncy and creamy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the contrary, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is characterized as buttery, textured, and invigorating, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation with noticeable friction when pressed. While both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, the BCP excels in providing a bouncy and elastic feel, whereas the Cream switch offers a firm and invigorating typing experience.
Overall, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch each bring their unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The BCP excels in offering a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a creamy feel, while the Cream switch provides a low-pitched and buttery typing sensation with a textured and invigorating feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference regarding sound profile, feedback sensation, and typing experience. Whether you opt for the BCP or the Cream switch, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy and creamy typing experience with a signature clacky sound, the Sarokeys BCP may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deeper sound profile with a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
