Sarokeys BCP vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Tom offer two distinct options. The 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 Tom, a tactile switch, offers a different typing experience, although there is limited information available about its specific characteristics. If you're looking for a switch that provides a bouncy and clacky feel, the BCP may be the way to go. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Tom switches both utilize nylon as the material for their bottom housings, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller tone. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches allows for the absorption of more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch. However, the differentiation in the top housing material between the two switches may lead to variations in the overall sound profile and typing feel.
In contrast, the Sarokeys BCP features a nylon top housing, while the Outemu Tom utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing. The use of nylon in the BCP's top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Tom offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate as a material contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. This distinction in top housing materials between the two switches suggests that users may experience differences in sound and typing feedback based on the switch they choose.
Overall, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom of a switch plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing on the switch. While the Sarokeys BCP and Outemu Tom switches share a common material in their bottom housings with nylon, their divergence in top housing materials - nylon for the BCP and polycarbonate for the Tom - results in contrasting sound profiles. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users looking for specific sound characteristics or typing experiences may prefer one switch over the other based on the housing materials used.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch which has an actuation force of 55 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the BCP requires 57 grams to fully press the key, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the BCP switch provides a medium-light typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Tom switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel. Both switches provide different options for users based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces, allowing for a customized typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Outemu Tom tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to all users, but for those who prefer a more noticeable depth when typing or gaming, the Outemu Tom switch with the longer travel distance may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance and keypress feel each individual user prefers.
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 Tom 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 offers a unique typing experience characterized by a bouncy and creamy feel, accompanied by a signature clacky sound profile. This combination of attributes gives users a tactile and audibly satisfying feedback during use. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch lacks specific descriptions for both sound and feel, but based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Tom may not offer the same level of tactile and audible feedback as the BCP. If you are looking for a switch with a lively feel, smooth typing experience, and distinctive sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch would be a great option to consider. Ultimately, selecting the right switch depends on personal preference and typing style, so it's recommended to try out different switches before committing to one.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between Sarokeys BCP linear switches and Outemu Tom tactile switches, consider the following factors. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force and prefer a bouncy and creamy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, then the BCP linear switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a unique feel and sound experience, the Outemu Tom switches may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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