Sarokeys BCP vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, some key differences can help guide your decision. The Sarokeys BCP offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey provides a quiet and highly tactile typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. While the BCP is more geared towards those who enjoy a bouncy and clacky feel, the Silent Grey is perfect for those seeking a satisfying and silent typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
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
The Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Silent Grey both use different materials for their top and bottom housing components. The BCP features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Grey utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While the BCP's nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile, the Silent Grey also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of the bottom housing in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Silent Grey allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a visually appealing choice for users looking to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Sarokeys BCP may not offer the same level of visibility for RGB lighting due to its opaque nature. However, both housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, with the BCP's nylon top housing creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper and more resonant sound produced by the Silent Grey's polycarbonate top housing.
While the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Silent Grey differ in their choice of housing materials, both switches benefit from the unique properties of nylon. The BCP's nylon top and bottom housing create a consistent deep and full sound profile, while the Silent Grey's use of nylon for the bottom housing emphasizes the importance of this component in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. Additionally, the Silent Grey's polycarbonate top housing offers the added advantage of enhanced visibility for RGB lighting, providing users with a customizable visual element to complement the switch's sound profile. Ultimately, whether using nylon or polycarbonate, both switches offer a unique acoustic experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, the key difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP has a slightly lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Silent Grey's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the BCP requires 57 grams while the Silent Grey jumps to 65 grams, making the latter a heavier option. This means that the BCP provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Silent Grey offers a medium-heavy feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the BCP may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Silent Grey. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the weight variation caters to different preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the BCP switch will offer a quicker response time compared to the Silent Grey switch. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the BCP switch for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster reactions during gameplay. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may prefer the Silent Grey switch with its longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for response time and keypress depth.
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 Silent Grey 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, when comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, they offer distinct characteristics in both sound and feel. The BCP provides a clacky sound profile, known for its sharp and snappy noise when pressed, while the Silent Grey offers a quiet typing experience without a specific sound description provided. In terms of feel, the BCP delivers a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, characterized by a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery experience. On the other hand, the Silent Grey's feel is not specified, so it may not have the same bouncy and creamy qualities. Ultimately, if sound and feel are crucial factors in your decision-making process, the BCP may be the preferred choice for those seeking a unique and tactile typing experience, while the Silent Grey may cater more towards individuals looking for a quiet and tactile switch option.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider your preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a clacky, bouncy typing experience with a poppy sound profile, the BCP linear switch might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a highly tactile, silent typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, then the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you find most enjoyable and comfortable.
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