Sarokeys BCP vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often weigh the unique characteristics of each option to find the perfect fit for their typing style and preferences. The Sarokeys BCP switches, a modern take on the classic Black Cherry Pies, are celebrated for their bouncy and creamy feel coupled with a distinctive clacky sound profile, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy a tactile auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switches offer a lush, thocky sound from the moment you plug them in, enhanced by a factory-applied lubricant that ensures a smooth performance. Both switches are linear in nature, but the Sarokeys BCP focuses on a lively and energetic tactile sensation, while the Rosewood exudes a deeper, satisfying acoustics. Ultimately, the switch you choose will depend on your personal preferences for sound and 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
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and the Akko Rosewood switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which brings a classic sound profile characteristic to both models. This shared housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller acoustic experience when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic compared to harder alternatives. This quality allows both switches to absorb more sound and produce a duller, rounder tone. Whether using the BCP or Rosewood, users can expect a consistent auditory experience while typing, emphasizing a warm, low-frequency sound that enhances the overall typing experience.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Sarokeys BCP and Akko Rosewood switches remain identical as they both incorporate nylon. This uniformity in material means both switches will exhibit similar characteristics when considering the bottom-out sound and feel during operation. As such, the nylon bottom housing significantly influences the typing experience, providing a satisfying tactile response and reducing the clacking sound that can often accompany harder plastic switches. Consequently, users of either the BCP or Rosewood will find a comparable sensation under their fingers, making transitions between the two feel natural and seamless.
While the construction of the BCP and Rosewood switches is indeed very similar due to their identical housing materials, the design configurations and potential minor variations in housing shape could still influence the overall user experience. If the top and bottom housings were to differ in shape or design (hypothetically speaking, despite both being nylon), the characteristics brought forth from each housing might manifest differently during typing, particularly in terms of sound upon releasing a key. However, given that both models share nylon for both housings, users can confidently anticipate similar auditory and tactile feedback from both the Sarokeys BCP and Akko Rosewood, ultimately delivering a satisfying, consistent typing experience.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light option. In contrast, the Rosewood switch is lighter, with an actuation force of only 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This distinction means that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions will find the Akko Rosewood more appealing, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel during key presses may favor the Sarokeys BCP despite its heavier resistance. Overall, the BCP switch requires more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Rosewood, providing different tactile feedback based on user preference.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Akko Rosewood linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the BCP switch offers a slightly shorter actuation distance, appealing to gamers or users who favor quick and responsive key presses. In contrast, the longer 4 mm travel of the Rosewood switch provides a more substantial feel, which might be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, while both switches serve their purpose well, the BCP is designed for faster response times, making it the shorter option, whereas the Rosewood, with its greater travel distance, caters to a preference for a fuller keystroke feel.
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 Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 switches stand out with their clacky auditory profile, delivering a sharp and snappy sound that many enthusiasts relish. This crisp and bright noise is evocative of classic mechanical switches and provides a lively auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. Conversely, the Akko Rosewood linear switches produce a deep, thocky sound, which offers a satisfying resonance upon each keystroke. The thocky sound profile is often appreciated for its rich, full-bodied quality that feels more substantial compared to the BCP's percussive clacks. Ultimately, both switches present distinct auditory experiences that can cater to different preferences, but sound perception may vary depending on the choice of keyboard and keycap configuration.
When examining the feel of these switches, the BCPs are characterized by their bouncy and creamy sensations. The bounciness provides a spring-like feedback, enhancing the tactile experience with a lively response that feels engaging with each keystroke. This is complemented by their creamy texture, characterized by a smooth and buttery typing sensation, making it easy for fingers to glide seamlessly across the keys. Unfortunately, the feel of the Rosewood switches is unknown, leaving a gap in direct comparison. However, if the Rosewood switches also emphasize smoothness and a luxurious typing experience, users can expect to enjoy a similarly satisfying tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switches and Akko Rosewood switches each offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that can appeal to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The BCP’s clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel create a lively typing environment, while the Rosewood's thocky sound counters with a rich resonance that adds depth. Each switch carries its unique characteristics, but if tactile smoothness is also a goal for the Rosewood, it may deliver a comparable satisfactory typing experience. Without explicit details on the Rosewood's feel, the BCP's attributes shine through clearly, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy both auditory and tactile excitement.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and needs. If you favor a medium-light actuation force combined with a lively, bouncy feel and enjoy an engaging auditory experience when typing, the Sarokeys BCP would be an excellent fit for you. Its clacky sound profile and creamy, elastic touch can make typing feel more dynamic and enjoyable, particularly if you appreciate feedback in your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation with a focus on deep, satisfying thocky sounds, the Akko Rosewood is your go-to option. Its factory-applied lubrication gives it a smooth typing experience right out of the box, and the lower actuation force may make it more suitable for long typing sessions or for those who prefer a softer touch. Ultimately, consider both your tactile and auditory preferences when making your selection, as both switches provide distinct typing experiences tailored to different styles.
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