Sarokeys BCP vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it's essential to consider the distinct characteristics of each. The BCP is renowned for its creamy and bouncy feel, offering a satisfying typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a light to medium amount of tactility, resulting in a thocky bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. While the BCP delivers a more pronounced auditory experience, the Red Panda offers a unique mix of tactile feedback and sound profile. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Red Panda differ in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom components. The BCP utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Red Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials bring their own unique sound characteristics to the switches, the BCP's nylon housing lends itself to a duller and rounder sound compared to the Red Panda's polycarbonate housing, which produces a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing material also plays a significant role. The Red Panda's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. This allows for a visually striking effect when paired with lighting, enhancing the overall appearance of the switch. On the other hand, the BCP's nylon housing may not offer the same level of visual appeal when it comes to lighting effects. However, both housing materials serve their purpose of providing a sturdy and functional component for the switches.
Ultimately, the difference in housing materials between the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Red Panda results in distinct sound profiles for each switch. While the BCP's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, the Red Panda's polycarbonate housing produces a crisper and sharper sound. Despite these differences, the choice of housing material for a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Whether nylon or polycarbonate, both materials contribute to the overall performance and functionality of the switches in their own unique ways.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, the BCP is lighter than the Red Panda in terms of actuation force, with 51 grams compared to 50 grams, respectively. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the BCP is also lighter with 57 grams compared to the Red Panda's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category, with the BCP being medium-light and the Red Panda being medium in terms of force. The BCP provides a slightly lighter touch for those who prefer a softer typing experience, while the Red Panda offers a slightly heavier feel, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. Choosing between the two depends on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for faster typing or gaming, the BCP switch might be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more depth and feedback when pressing down on a key, the Red Panda switch with its slightly longer travel distance could be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, so you can expect comparable results regardless of which one you choose.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch is renowned for its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound, providing a unique thocky experience. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the BCP emphasizing a crisp and bright sound, while the Red Panda delivers a deep and satisfying thud.
In terms of feel, the BCP is characterized by its bouncy and creamy typing experience, offering a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery feel. On the contrary, the Red Panda provides a mild typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to a broader range of users. While the BCP excels in providing a lively and elastic feel, the Red Panda offers a gentler typing experience that prioritizes approachability and versatility.
Overall, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch both excel in different aspects of sound and feel, catering to varied preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Whether you prefer the sharp and clacky sound of the BCP or the deep and thocky sound of the Red Panda, you can expect high-quality performance from both switches. Additionally, the bouncy and creamy feel of the BCP contrasts with the mild and approachable feel of the Red Panda, providing users with a diverse range of options to suit their individual typing preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches can offer a comprehensive understanding of their unique qualities and how they can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a bouncy and clacky sensation with a medium-light bottom out force, opt for the BCP. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a mild tactility and a medium bottom out force, the Red Panda would be the better choice. Remember that the BCP offers a creamy feel and a clacky sound profile, while the Red Panda provides a thocky bottom-out sound and a light-medium level of tactility. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities to enhance your typing experience, so choose based on what suits your preferences best.
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