Sarokeys BCP vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Piano are both notable linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Sarokeys BCP stands out for its creamy and bouncy typing experience, accompanied by a poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Piano is praised for its smooth and silky typing feel, along with a deep and bassy sound signature. While the BCP provides a bouncy and creamy tactile sensation, the Piano offers a frictionless and gliding push feel. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Piano both use different materials for their top and bottom housing components. The BCP utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Piano incorporates a proprietary POM blend top housing that offers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While both materials aim to create a similar sound experience, the specifics of the POM blend remain a mystery, leaving room for potential differences in sound quality.
In terms of the bottom housing, the BCP also features a nylon material that contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of the switch. Similarly, the Durock Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend for its bottom housing, mirroring the characteristics of the top housing material to maintain consistency in sound quality across the switch. Both switches aim to deliver a rounded and dull sound experience, with the housing materials playing a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Piano focus on creating a deep and satisfying sound profile for users. While the BCP relies on nylon for both its top and bottom housings, the Piano incorporates a proprietary POM blend for added uniqueness. Whether it's the softer nature of nylon or the mysterious POM blend, both switches prioritize sound quality by leveraging the qualities of their respective housing materials to deliver a rich and engaging typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is evident that the BCP is the lighter option with an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, both falling in the medium-light range. On the other hand, the Piano switch has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the actuation force is unknown. The difference in weight between the two switches offers a choice for users based on their preference for typing experience. Some may enjoy the lighter feel of the BCP for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier push of the Piano for a more substantial typing feedback. Both switches can provide similar results depending on whether a lighter or heavier actuation force is desired by the user.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2mm, while the Durock Piano linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the BCP has a shorter travel distance compared to the Piano switch. Typically, a 4.0mm travel distance is considered traditional, while 3.0mm is shallower. Gamers tend to prefer switches with shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the BCP a popular choice in that regard. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Piano switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keyboard 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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 is known for its signature clacky noise that is sharp, snappy, and percussive. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a deep, rich, and bassy sound profile during key presses. Depending on your preference for sound, you can choose between the clacky and poppy noise of the BCP or the deep and creamy sound of the Piano.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch provides a bouncy and creamy typing experience, characterized by a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery feel when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a frictionless and silky typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing an extremely smooth and effortless keystroke. Depending on your preference for feel, you can opt for the lively and elastic feedback of the BCP or the smooth and fluid travel of the Piano.
Overall, both the Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Piano linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a more clacky and bouncy typing experience, the BCP may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a deep and creamy sound profile with a frictionless and silky typing feel, the Piano might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as other factors like your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, the BCP with 57 grams might be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Piano with 63.5 grams would be a better choice. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky sound profile and bouncy feel, the BCP would be perfect for you. Alternatively, if you prefer a bassy sound and a more frictionless, silky typing experience, the Piano switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel, sound, and force required for typing.
Mentioned in this article
