Sarokeys BCP vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is important to note their distinctive features. The Sarokeys BCP, a linear switch, is renowned for its creamy and bouncy feel, providing a unique typing experience marked by a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is known for its silent operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a quiet typing experience. While the BCP offers a tactile and satisfying feel, the Silent Yellow excels in noise reduction. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Outemu Silent Yellow both feature nylon material in their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the BCP uses a nylon top housing, producing a similar effect as the bottom housing in terms of sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Outemu Silent Yellow allows for a clear housing that is especially useful for RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. In comparison, the Sarokeys BCP's nylon top housing may not provide the same level of visual interest due to its opaque nature. Additionally, the different materials used in the top housing of these switches also contribute to a contrasting sound profile, with the BCP offering a deeper and fuller sound while the Silent Yellow delivers a sharper and more resonant sound.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact the sound profile and feel when typing. While both the Sarokeys BCP and Outemu Silent Yellow share similarities in their use of nylon in the bottom housing, the difference in their top housing material, nylon for the BCP and polycarbonate for the Silent Yellow, results in distinct sound profiles and aesthetic features. Whether opting for a deeper and fuller sound with the BCP or a sharper and crisper sound with the Silent Yellow, both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The BCP switch has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a medium-light touch. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch requires a higher actuation force of 65 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, resulting in a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the BCP switch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while individuals seeking a more robust keypress may gravitate towards the Silent Yellow switch for a more pronounced push feel. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, with the BCP being lighter and the Silent Yellow being heavier, offering users the opportunity to customize their typing experience accordingly.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. With the BCP having a shorter travel distance, it may appeal more to gamers looking for faster response times due to less distance to travel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Silent Yellow switch may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of 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 Silent Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a unique and iconic clacky experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound profile is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a satisfying auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch's sound qualities are currently unknown. When considering sound, keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch provides a bouncy and creamy typing sensation. The keys feel elastic, spring-like, and bouncy, offering a lively feedback and a rebound effect when pressed. The creamy characteristic gives a smooth and buttery typing experience, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys with each keystroke. In contrast, the specific feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is currently undisclosed. If you're looking for a switch with a bouncy and creamy feel, the Sarokeys BCP may be a great choice for you.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch stands out for its distinctive clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel, offering a unique and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, information about the sound and feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is currently limited. If you're aiming for a similar clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel, opting for the Sarokeys BCP may provide you with a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Remember to consider personal preferences and other factors like keycap choices when selecting the ideal switch for your typing needs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a bouncy and creamy feel, and a clacky sound profile, then the Sarokeys BCP switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and value a silent typing experience over sound, then the Outemu Silent Yellow switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and environment when making your decision to ensure the best mechanical keyboard switch choice for your needs.
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