Sarokeys BCP vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Pine. The Sarokeys BCP is a linear switch best known for its creamy type feel and signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is also a linear switch, but it is characterized by its medium-heavy typing feel, buttery smooth key travel, and low-pitched sound profile. While the BCP offers a bouncy and clacky experience, the Pine provides a more bassy and creamy feel. Both switches have their unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Pine, it is evident that they differ significantly in terms of the materials used. The BCP features a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the plastic, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Pine utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound quality. While both materials have their distinct attributes, the BCP and Pine offer contrasting sound experiences to users.
However, despite their differences in sound profiles, both the BCP and Pine housing materials share similarities in their construction. Both materials are commonly used in switch housings, with nylon being regarded as a classic choice and polycarbonate known for its clarity and translucency. The use of nylon in the BCP and polycarbonate in the Pine showcases the versatility of these materials in providing unique sound experiences for mechanical keyboard users. While the BCP offers a deeper and fuller sound, the Pine delivers a sharper and crisper sound, catering to varying preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the choice between the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Pine housing materials comes down to personal preference and sound preferences. The softer nylon housing of the BCP may appeal to those who enjoy a more muted and round sound profile, while the stiffer polycarbonate housing of the Pine may be favored by users seeking a clearer and sharper sound experience. Both options offer distinct sound characteristics, showcasing the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience. Whether one prefers the deeper sound of nylon or the crisper sound of polycarbonate, both the BCP and Pine provide unique and satisfying typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that they both have similar actuation forces, with the BCP having 51 grams and the Pine having 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the BCP is slightly lighter at 57 grams compared to the Pine's 58 grams. This means that the BCP switch provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall. The Pine switch, on the other hand, offers a slightly heavier bottom out force for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Both switches fall into the category of medium actuation forces, but the BCP is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Pine. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the travel distance of the KTT Pine linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The BCP switch provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Pine switch offers a more substantial key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those looking for a more tactile feel. Both switches offer different options for users based on their preferences for travel distance, with the BCP being the shorter option and the Pine being the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for travel distance.
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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 signature clacky and poppy sound profile that is crisp, bright, and percussive, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch produces a deeper, richer sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a more subdued and smooth auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a lively and clacky typing sound with the BCP or a more bassy and low-pitched sound with the Pine.
Moving on to feel, the Sarokeys BCP switch delivers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, characterized by a spring-like, elastic feedback that bounces back with each keystroke. This switch offers a smooth and buttery sensation, allowing for effortless and silky keystrokes. Similarly, the KTT Pine switch also provides a buttery and creamy typing experience, ensuring a seamless, uniform, and fluid key press sensation. With both switches delivering a creamy feel, users can expect a smooth and enjoyable typing experience that glides effortlessly across the keys.
Overall, both the Sarokeys BCP and KTT Pine linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel but share similarities in providing a smooth, buttery typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing sensations, users can enjoy a clacky and bouncy feel with the BCP or a bassy and buttery experience with the Pine. Ultimately, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, making them excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking high-quality linear switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy, creamy feel with a clacky sound profile, then the Sarokeys BCP switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, buttery feel with a bassy, low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Pine switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal typing preferences and which qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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