Sarokeys BCP vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Sarokeys BCP, a linear switch, is renowned for its streamlined rendition of the iconic Black Cherry Pies, offering a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch lacks specific notoriety but provides a different typing sensation. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches feature a nylon top housing that provides a deep and full sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The top housing of both switches contributes significantly to the overall typing experience, enhancing the tactile feedback and sound produced while typing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the BCP and Maple Leaf switches utilize nylon as well. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. By using nylon as the material for the bottom housing, both switches offer a consistent typing experience that enhances the overall sound profile and tactile feedback. This ensures a comfortable typing experience for users who prefer switches with a softer bottom-out feel.
Overall, the nylon top and bottom housings of both the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches provide a similar typing experience characterized by a deep and full sound profile. The use of nylon as the housing material contributes to a more tactile typing experience with enhanced sound quality. While there may be subtle differences in the design and construction of the switches, the choice of nylon for both the top and bottom housings ensures a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound and feel.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Maple Leaf's 55 grams. Similarly, the BCP has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams in contrast to the Maple Leaf's heavier 65 grams. The BCP offers a more medium-light typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Maple Leaf provides a medium-heavy typing experience, suited for individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. When comparing the two, the BCP is the lighter option, whereas the Maple Leaf is the heavier choice. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. The BCP has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Maple Leaf, but the difference is minimal. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch with a slightly deeper feel, you may lean towards the Outemu Maple Leaf with its 3.3 mm travel distance. However, if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for faster response times, the 3.2 mm travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP may be more suitable for you. In general, both switches offer similar results due to their close travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference between a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
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 Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10 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
Overall, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch stands out for its distinctive clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel. The switch offers a unique typing experience with a satisfying poppy sound and a spring-like sensation when pressed. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is currently unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the provided descriptions, it can be inferred that the BCP linear switch offers a more tactile and audible typing experience compared to the Maple Leaf switch. Ultimately, when choosing between the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches, it is important to consider your personal preferences for sound and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between Sarokeys BCP linear switches and Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switches, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy, creamy feel with a signature clacky sound, then the BCP switches may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force without a specific sound preference, the Maple Leaf switches could be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the tactile feedback and auditory experience you seek in a mechanical keyboard switch. Happy typing!
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