Sarokeys BCP vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Perky stand out among linear options for their unique characteristics. The Sarokeys BCP, or Black Cherry Pie, boasts a creamy typing experience combined with a distinctively clacky sound that makes each keystroke enjoyable and melifluous. Crafted with custom molds, these switches provide a bouncy, elastic feel that many find satisfying for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches offer a more neutral and polished experience with their shorter travel distance, which results in a condensed, silky typing sensation. These switches come with softer nylon housings, emphasizing comfort and a seamless glide—ideal for those who prefer a quieter and more refined keystroke. Both options appeal to different preferences and typing styles; the BCP is perfect for those who revel in auditory feedback, while the Perky excels in providing a muted but satisfying experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
51g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Perky keyboards share a notable similarity in their use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon, as a classic switch housing material, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. Both the BCP and Perky utilize nylon's unique acoustic properties, which help absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a typing experience that is characterized by a softer and more muted auditory response, creating a pleasant and satisfying feel when typing. The shared material choice between these two keyboards suggests that users can expect similar auditory and tactile performance, regardless of the switch brand.
However, while the top and bottom housings of both the BCP and Perky are made from nylon, the overall feel and sound can still vary slightly depending on other design factors. The top housing primarily influences sound during a key release, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Thus, even with identical materials, the user experience can differ based on the specific design of each keyboard, including switch throw lengths and actuation points. If both keyboards utilize the same switch type, users will find that the characteristics tied to the nylon material come into play consistently across the two models.
In conclusion, while the Sarokeys BCP and HMX Perky both leverage nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, offering a similarly engineered sound profile and tactile experience, variations in design details can lead to different tactile sensations when typing. For users seeking a more nuanced auditory and tactile experience, the emphasis on how each housing type interacts during key presses and releases will play a crucial role. Thus, despite the similarities in housing materials, the overall experience may differ, enticing keyboard enthusiasts to explore both options for their distinct attributes and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their distinct characteristics. The BCP switch features an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light option that provides a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Perky switch is lighter, requiring only 43 grams for actuation and 50 grams to bottom out. This lower force means that the Perky may be better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions with reduced finger fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the BCP switch may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feel during typing, offering greater feedback. Thus, if you prefer a lighter switch for comfort and endurance, the HMX Perky would be the better choice, while the Sarokeys BCP caters to users who enjoy a firmer keystroke experience.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the HMX Perky linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the BCP the shorter option between the two, providing a more responsive experience suitable for gamers who value quick key presses. In contrast, the Perky, with its greater travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel under their fingers, providing a deeper satisfaction when typing or gaming. Those opting for the BCP can expect a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those choosing the Perky will enjoy a fuller keypress experience. Thus, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference regarding key depth and responsiveness.
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 HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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, both the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Perky switches share a clacky auditory profile that enhances the typing experience. This clackiness is characterized by a sharp, snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive, making both switches ideal for those who appreciate an audible feedback while they type. However, it's important to note that the overall sound experience can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard frame and choice of keycaps, so users may find slight variations in acoustics even between these two similar switches.
In terms of feel, the BCP switches provide a unique experience with their combination of bouncy and creamy sensations. The bounciness offers a lively, spring-like feedback, enhancing the overall typing dynamics, while the creamy quality contributes to a smooth and buttery experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Perky switches are polished and silky, delivering a smooth and refined touch that minimizes friction and resistance. While both switches lean towards a smooth typing experience, the BCP’s bouncy character allows for a more dynamic feel, compared to the streamlined and silky nature of the Perky.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP and HMX Perky linear switches each have their own distinguishing characteristics, particularly in feel and sound. Both switches produce an appealing clacky sound profile, but their tactile experiences diverge, with the BCP excelling in bounciness and creaminess, while the Perky shines in polished and silky smoothness. For newcomers, these distinctions highlight the diverse options available in mechanical keyboard switches, suggesting that personal preference will ultimately guide the choice between these two popular options.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a medium-light typing experience with a bit of bounce, clack, and a creamy feel, the BCP is a fantastic choice. Its 57-gram actuation force provides enough resistance for those who like a more tactile response while still being relatively easy to press, making it ideal for both typing and gaming. Moreover, the poppy sound profile adds an exciting auditory element, perfect for those who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a travel distance that's shorter and a more polished smoothness, the HMX Perky switch would likely be your go-to. Its 50-gram actuation force allows for effortless keystrokes, making it suitable for long typing sessions or rapid gaming without fatigue. The overall silky feel contributes to a uniform typing experience, appealing to users who value efficiency and comfort over distinct tactile feedback. Ultimately, listen to your typing instincts and consider the scenarios in which you’ll use them to select the switch that resonates best with your style.
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