Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie both stand out within the linear switch category, albeit with distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Sarokeys BCP, inspired by the beloved Black Cherry Pie originals, offers a unique blend of a creamy feel and an engaging auditory experience, thanks to its poppy and clacky sound profile. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy tactile feedback and a bit of acoustic flair in their typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie focuses on delivering smoothness and affordability, featuring a thocky sound profile that promises a satisfying typing experience without breaking the bank. While the BCP excels in providing an enjoyable sensory experience for those who relish auditory feedback, the Sea Salt Smoothie appeals to budget-minded users seeking quality and smooth performance. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches showcase distinct housing materials that contribute to their unique auditory and tactile experiences. The BCP features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie employs POM (polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housings. POM is recognized for its rigidity and durability, yet it still offers a muted, pleasing sound profile. While both switches aim for a deeper sound, the payoff differs; the nylon material of the BCP leads to a distinct warmth, whereas the POM housing of the Sea Salt Smoothie results in a refined clarity.
When comparing the bottom housings, it's essential to recognize how these materials influence the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the BCP elicits a rich, subdued sound due to its inherent properties, focusing on the bottom-out feel and sound when a key is pressed. Conversely, the POM bottom housing in the Sea Salt Smoothie is equally designed for a muted sound, but due to its firmer nature, the tactile feedback may feel slightly different during the bottoming action. This difference will be noticeable to the user, creating a unique typing experience even though both switches share common goals in sound muting and depth.
Ultimately, while both the BCP and Sea Salt Smoothie cater to users seeking deeper sound profiles, their housing materials contribute to different auditory and tactile nuances. For those who desire a softer, warmer experience, the BCP's nylon construction delivers this, while users interested in a cleaner, slightly punchier feedback may prefer the POM encasement of the Sea Salt Smoothie. Despite their differences, both switches can achieve a similar muted, satisfying typing experience, albeit through different approaches to sound absorption and material density. The choice between them may come down to personal preference regarding the subtleties in sound and feel rather than a stark difference in performance.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The BCP switch features an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie remains unknown, leaving some uncertainty regarding its overall feel during keystrokes. Since the BCP has a definite bottom out force, it provides a more substantial tactile experience when fully pressed down, which may appeal to users who prefer that heavier feel. Ultimately, if you're seeking a lighter switch for more prolonged use, the Sea Salt Smoothie may be the better option, while the BCP switch offers a moderate experience with a clear bottoming out feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, it's evident that the two differ significantly. The BCP switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the Sea Salt Smoothie's 3.7 mm travel distance. As a result, gamers who prioritize quicker response times may prefer the BCP for its more responsive feel, while those who enjoy a deeper pressing experience might gravitate towards the Sea Salt Smoothie for its greater depth. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key travel and tactile feedback: a shorter travel distance can lead to a snappier, more immediate interaction, while a longer travel distance may provide a satisfying, albeit slightly less rapid, experience.
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 Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switch, the BCP stands out with its distinctively clacky auditory signature. Characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, it produces a crisp, bright, and percussive tone that resonates well, especially in communal environments or for those who appreciate pronounced auditory feedback from their switches. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie is noted for a thocky sound profile. This implication suggests a deeper, satisfying sound that is often favored for its rich and fuller tone. Ultimately, while the BCP offers a more excitable clack, the Sea Salt Smoothie likely provides a more understated yet resonant thock.
In terms of tactile feel, the BCP provides a unique typing experience that is defined by its creamy, bouncy character. Users can expect a viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation with each keystroke, giving a lively response often characterized as spring-like and delightful. The combination of a creamy typing feel—with its smooth, buttery sensation—ensures an effortless typing experience that many enthusiasts crave. In contrast, the subjective qualities of the Sea Salt Smoothie are unknown in this area, leaving potential users curious about its feedback and overall tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch presents an engaging auditory and tactile experience, making it suitable for fans of pronounced feedback who enjoy both a lively sound and a smooth typing action. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, with its thocky sound profile, promises a different yet potentially satisfying auditory experience, although its tactile characteristics remain a mystery for now. Both switches cater to distinct preferences, and prospective users can expect quality in sound and feel, with the BCP particularly standing out in both categories.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch should primarily depend on your specific typing preferences and desired auditory experience. If you enjoy a medium-light actuation force with a bounce and a clacky sound profile, the BCP is an excellent choice. It's well-suited for typing sessions where you appreciate tactile feedback and an engaging auditory response, making it ideal for casual typing and gaming alike. On the other hand, if you favor a switch that offers a more muted, thocky sound with an emphasis on smoothness, the Sea Salt Smoothie might be more your style. This switch is perfect for users who prioritize a soft touch and a whisper-quiet typing experience, making it suitable for professional environments or late-night typing sessions where noise might be a concern. Ultimately, it all comes down to whether you're after that lively, clacky feedback of the BCP or the smooth, pleasurable experience of the Sea Salt Smoothie, both of which cater well to different styles of use.
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