Sarokeys BCP vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and Akko Penguin are two popular options to explore. The Sarokeys BCP offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience with a unique clacky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a tactile and audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is known for its silent tactile switches, making it a great choice for office environments where noise reduction is essential. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguin switches provide a satisfying feedback without causing fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and Akko Penguin both utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This choice of material allows both switches to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. The similarity in housing materials between the two switches indicates that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
One key difference between the Sarokeys BCP and Akko Penguin is that the BCP features a split design for its top and bottom housings, while the Penguin uses nylon for both top and bottom housings. This split design in the BCP means that the qualities of the housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. As a result, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, whereas the top housing affects the sound when letting go of a key. In contrast, the Penguin's consistent use of nylon throughout its housing provides a more uniform typing experience.
Overall, both the Sarokeys BCP and Akko Penguin make use of nylon housing materials to deliver a typing experience characterized by a deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for a quieter and more muted sound compared to switches made with harder plastics. While the BCP's split design may offer a more nuanced typing experience, the Penguin's uniform use of nylon ensures a consistent sound and feel across the board. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for typing sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the BCP has a slightly heavier actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Penguin's lighter 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the BCP requires 57 grams while the Penguin needs 60 grams. This makes the Penguin slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Penguin due to its lower actuation force, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes may opt for the BCP. Both switches provide a medium level of force overall, offering a balance between effortless typing and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the BCP being slightly shorter than the Penguin. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the BCP, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keypress may lean towards the Penguin. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance feels comfortable and responsive.
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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a distinctively clacky profile, with a sharp and snappy auditory response that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch provides a muted and neutral sound profile, minimizing noise for quiet environments while still offering a satisfactory typing experience without being overwhelming. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on your preference for a louder, more pronounced sound versus a quieter, more subtle sound during typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is known for its bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback with a buttery smooth typing experience that glides effortlessly. Alternatively, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a polished and mild feel, providing a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Penguin switch also boasts a feathery and subtle typing feel, making it comfortable for extended use without causing finger fatigue. The decision between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a bouncy, creamy typing experience or a polished, mild feel with reduced friction.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer contrasting sound and feel profiles, catering to different preferences and environments. If you enjoy a louder, more clacky sound with a bouncy, creamy feel, the BCP switch would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, more muted sound with a polished, mild feel, the Penguin switch would be the ideal option. Both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, ensuring that you get a satisfying and comfortable feel with each keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your typing environment and personal preferences. If you prioritize a clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel, the BCP may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a muted sound and a polished, mild feel, the Penguin may be more suitable, especially if noise reduction and smooth key travel are important to you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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