Sarokeys BCP vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Phoenix offer distinct experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The BCP, a linear switch, provides a creamy and bouncy typing feel with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Phoenix, a clicky switch, stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound. While the BCP is known for its bouncy and creamy typing experience, the Phoenix excels in providing a unique crunchy and polished feel. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Phoenix, one of the most notable differences lies in the material used for their top housings. The BCP utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile thanks to polycarbonate's stiffer plastic composition. While the BCP offers a duller and rounder sound, the Phoenix delivers a more clear and resonant sound, especially beneficial for users planning to incorporate RGB lighting due to the translucency of polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, we see a similar pattern emerge. The BCP's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, mirroring the characteristics of its polycarbonate top housing. Both bottom housings impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, with nylon offering a duller sound and polycarbonate providing a more resonant experience.
Overall, the choice of housing material between nylon and polycarbonate significantly influences the sound profile and feel of these switches, whether it's the BCP or the Phoenix. While the BCP with its nylon housing offers a softer and deeper sound, the Phoenix with its polycarbonate housing results in a sharper and crisper sound. Whether it is typing or releasing a key, the differences in material between the top and bottom housings play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of these switches. Similar results can be achieved based on whether the housing material is nylon or polycarbonate, impacting the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that the BCP is the lighter option with an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it medium-light. On the other hand, the Phoenix is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 62 grams, although the actuation force is not specified. In terms of weight, the BCP would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, such as in a work setting or during long gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Phoenix may be the better choice. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, but if the actuation force were the same in both switches, users would likely achieve similar results in terms of typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to individual preference for typing force and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for fast response times. The slight difference between the two distances may not have a significant impact on performance, as both are shorter compared to traditional switch travel distances. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of key feel 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 Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 clacky auditory experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a crunchy sound profile reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the BCP being more percussive and the Phoenix offering a more natural and textured sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as polished, offering a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While both switches offer a distinct tactile sensation, the BCP leans towards a more lively and rebounding feel, while the Phoenix provides a smoother and more refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The BCP excels in providing a clacky sound profile with a bouncy and creamy feel, catering to those who prefer a sharp and elastic feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Phoenix stands out with its crunchy sound profile and polished feel, appealing to users who enjoy a textured and refined typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct characteristics that will enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a bouncy and creamy feel with a clacky sound profile, the BCP would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a polished feel with a crunchy sound profile, the Phoenix switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of both feel and sound. Experimenting with different switches can help you find the perfect match for your typing style and preferences.
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