Sarokeys BCP vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Sarokeys BCP and the Huano Sakura present two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear feel, each with its own unique characteristics. The Sarokeys BCP, or Black Cherry Pie, reinterprets the classic Frankenswitch with a specialized design that enhances its creamy typing sensation. Users can expect a delightful bounce and a distinct clacky auditory feedback that adds a playful element to typing, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switch is engineered for those who prioritize a feather-light touch coupled with medium acoustics, making it particularly suitable for long-duration typing sessions where comfort is key. While the BCP shines in providing an engaging sound profile alongside its bouncy feel, the Sakura excels in delivering a smooth experience with less auditory distraction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
51g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Huano Sakura, distinct differences emerge in their choice of top housing materials. The BCP utilizes nylon for its top housing, providing typists with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer structure, which resonates more sound than harder plastics. This characteristic of nylon contributes to a duller, rounder typing sound that many users appreciate for its warm acoustic properties. In contrast, the Sakura's top housing is made from POK (polyketone), a material that boasts both smoothness indicative of a low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability. While the Sakura's typing experience is characterized by a clackier sound due to the nature of POK, this contrast emphasizes the differing acoustic experiences these two switches offer despite both aiming for high-performance typing.
Turning to the bottom housings, both the BCP and the Sakura utilize the same material—nylon—providing consistency in how they respond at the bottom-out phase of key presses. As mentioned, nylon's dampening properties create resonance absorption, resulting in a deeper sound profile that enhances the overall acoustic experience when a key is fully pressed. The consistent use of nylon in both switches for the bottom housing means that users will find similar qualities in the typing feel and sound when they bottom out, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials. Thus, while the top housings produce distinct sound signatures, the shared nylon material in the bottom housing ties the user experience together.
In summary, the combination of materials in the Sarokeys BCP and the Huano Sakura creates unique profiles for each switch. The BCP, with its nylon top housing, offers a softer, warmer sound, while the Sakura's POK top introduces a slicker and more precise typing experience. However, the nylon bottom housing creates a common sonic foundation for both switches, ensuring that the bottom-out experience shares similar warmth and depth. Ultimately, users can expect an engaging typing experience with both options, but the differences in top housing materials will cater to varying preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Sarokeys BCP has an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light in terms of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Huano Sakura features a significantly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless keystroke. The difference in actuation force confirms that the BCP is the heavier option, while the Sakura is the lighter choice, facilitating a less strenuous typing experience. Both switches differ in overall force requirements, making the Sakura more suitable for prolonged usage in work or gaming environments where minimal fatigue is desired, while the BCP may appeal to those who favor a more substantial feel and feedback with each keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, we find that the BCP has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Sakura boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the BCP the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers and users who prioritize responsiveness in their typing experience, allowing for quicker key actuation. On the other hand, the Sakura's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced feel, catering to those who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience when pressing keys. Ultimately, if you seek a switch that offers faster reaction times, the BCP would be the ideal choice, whereas if you value a traditional depth of key travel, the Sakura would be the better fit.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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
In terms of sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is characterized by its clacky auditory profile, producing a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound that makes typing feel lively and engaging. This sound quality is ideal for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing, as the BCPs deliver a signature pop with each keypress. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switch is noted to have a medium acoustic profile, described as having a feather-light touch, which likely results in a quieter sound experience during use. However, detailed descriptions of the Sakura's sound characteristics are not provided, leaving some aspects of its auditory profile open to interpretation.
When it comes to feel, the BCP switches shine with a unique combination of bounciness and creaminess. Users can expect a pleasantly elastic response as they type, mimicking a spring-like sensation that adds an energetic quality to each keystroke. The creamy texture further enhances this experience, offering a silky smoothness that allows fingers to glide seamlessly across the keys. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Huano Sakura switch is not detailed, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons, although the reference to its feather-light touch suggests a notably different typing experience that may favor a lighter or effortless keystroke.
Overall, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a distinctly engaging auditory and tactile experience, making it suitable for users who enjoy a lively and pronounced typing session. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch may cater to those who prefer a quieter, lighter, and potentially less tactile experience, especially during extended typing sessions. While both switches likely deliver enjoyable experiences, the specific qualities of the Sakura would need further exploration to fully understand its appeal, possibly making it a more subdued alternative to the vibrant BCP.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch will largely depend on your specific typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a more tactile and acoustic experience, the BCP is the way to go. With its medium-light 57-gram bottom-out force, it delivers a delightful combination of a bouncy, creamy feel and a signature clacky sound that can enhance both typing and gaming sessions. This switch is well-suited for users who appreciate a lively and engaging auditory feedback when they type. On the other hand, if you need a switch that supports longer typing sessions without causing fatigue, the Huano Sakura, with its lighter 45-gram bottom-out force, provides an excellent option. It offers a smooth experience with medium acoustics, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch and quieter operation. Ultimately, consider the BCP for its character and energetic feedback, while the Sakura would be a fitting choice for a comfortable, prolonged typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
