Sarokeys BCP vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offer unique experiences for users. The Sarokeys BCP is a linear switch that brings a modern twist to the iconic Black Cherry Pies, known for their clacky auditory allure. With custom molds that eliminate the need for switch disassembly and reassembly, the BCP offers a creamy and bouncy type feel, along with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative semi-silent design. While maintaining a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, it delivers a clacky bottom-out sound. The switch offers a silky smooth type feel that is not over-polished. Each switch has its own strengths - the BCP being bouncy and creamy, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is more subdued and offers a buttery 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a clear distinction can be seen in their top housing composition. The BCP boasts a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic which absorbs more sound. On the contrary, the Semi-Silent Linear features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to nylon. While both materials have their unique qualities, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound preference.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the BCP and Semi-Silent Linear utilize nylon for this component. The nylon bottom housing on these switches contributes to a deep and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound due to its softer plastic composition. This similarity in bottom housing materials suggests that users can expect a consistent sound profile when typing on these switches, with both offering a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing further emphasizes the importance of material choice in enhancing the overall typing experience.
It is worth noting that the combination of different top and bottom housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing. While the bottom housing plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing has a more noticeable impact on the sound when releasing a key. This highlights the importance of considering the qualities of both top and bottom housing materials in switch design, as it can enhance the overall typing experience by providing a balanced sound profile. Despite the differences in top housing materials between the Sarokeys BCP and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, the shared use of nylon in their bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch. The BCP has an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, although its actuation force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the BCP switch may be the preferred choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel and don't mind a slightly heavier key press, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on typing or gaming experience. The BCP with its shorter travel distance may provide a quicker response time, which is favored by gamers, while the Semi-Silent Linear with the longer travel distance may offer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Both switches, however, will provide similar results in terms of functionality and performance.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 best known for its signature clacky sound profile. This produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, offering a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is characterized by a subdued sound, creating a whisper-quiet topping-out noise while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. This provides a more dampened and subtle sound profile compared to most switches, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is praised for its bouncy and creamy type feel. The keys offer a spring-like, elastic feedback sensation that is both viscous and bouncy, providing a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, the smooth and buttery typing experience of the BCP switch gives a silky sensation, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild and snappy typing experience, providing a gentle yet responsive feel that is approachable to most users. The buttery and polished characteristics of the switch contribute to a seamless, effortless, and fluid keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile with a bouncy and creamy type feel, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued sound with a mild and snappy typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches cater to different needs and preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a sharp, clacky sound profile with an elastic and bouncy feel, or a quieter, smoother sound with a more subdued and gentle typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch that offers a bouncy and clacky typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, then the Sarokeys BCP linear switch might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a semi-silent switch with a silky smooth feel and a medium bottom out force, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing force. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so choosing between the two would depend on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Happy typing!
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