Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Quinn offer distinct experiences for users. The Sarokeys BCP is a linear switch known for its creamy and bouncy feel, with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn is a tactile switch that provides a crisp, light switch-like tactility, coupled with a deep, resonant sound thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. While the BCP offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, the Quinn provides a polished and snappy tactile bump. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Quinn are both made of nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, as the nylon material used in their housing allows for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
However, while the housing material of both switches is the same, the way in which the top and bottom housings interact with the keystrokes may differ. The BCP's top housing may have a slightly different impact on the sound when a key is released compared to the Quinn's top housing. Likewise, the bottom housing of each switch may influence the bottom-out sound and feel differently. Despite these potential differences, the overall typing experience on both switches is likely to be quite comparable due to the shared nylon housing material.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Quinn, both made of nylon, offer a similar typing experience with deeper and fuller sound profiles. While there may be slight variations in the impact of the top and bottom housings on the sound and feel of keystrokes, overall, the use of nylon in their construction creates a consistent and satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Whether choosing the BCP or the Quinn, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with a unique sound and feel characteristic of nylon housing materials.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch with 59 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the BCP still maintains a lighter touch at 57 grams, while the Quinn requires a heavier force of 67 grams. This means that the BCP switch provides a smoother typing experience with less resistance, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a more tactile and pronounced typing feedback, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing feel. Both switches have their own strengths based on the actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quick response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Quinn switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or a more substantial key press.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 provides a signature poppy and clacky sound profile that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile with a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones, as well as a clean and sharp resonant sound. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the BCP offering a more pronounced clackiness and the Quinn delivering a richer bass-like tone.
In terms of feel, the BCP switch is characterized by a creamy and bouncy sensation, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a lively and elastic feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn switch offers a snappy and polished feel, with super responsive keys that have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the BCP switch focuses on a more cushioned and bouncy typing feel, the Quinn switch emphasizes responsiveness and refinement in key feedback.
Overall, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch each offer distinct qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The BCP switch excels in providing a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy sound, while the Quinn switch delivers a bassy and polished tactile feel with a crisp and clean resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback and cushioned typing feel or a refined tactile response and smooth key travel. Both switches offer quality and enjoyable typing experiences, ensuring that regardless of which one you choose, you will achieve satisfying results.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you value a smooth, bouncy typing experience with a signature clacky sound profile, the BCP may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp, tactile bump with a deep and resonant sound, the Quinn switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall keyboarding experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and needs.