Sarokeys BCP vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The BCP switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a clacky auditory allure, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a medium-high level of tactility with deep thocks and sharp accents, suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke 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
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, we see a stark contrast between nylon and polycarbonate. The BCP's nylon top and bottom housing offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder tone. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate top and bottom housing provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic makeup, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound quality and feel during typing.
While the BCP's nylon housing offers a consistent sound profile throughout the switch, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housing presents a split in qualities between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during key presses, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities allows for a more dynamic typing experience, with different aspects of sound and feel affected by each type of material. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper tone, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing can significantly impact your typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing also plays a role. The BCP's nylon housing is more traditional in appearance, with a solid, opaque finish, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housing offers a clear, translucent look. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a more vibrant and visually appealing keyboard setup. Ultimately, the decision between nylon and polycarbonate housing for switches like the BCP and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring comes down to personal preferences in sound quality, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the BCP requires 57 grams while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring needs 63 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the BCP may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a slightly heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend 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 shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The BCP's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Shadow's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences among users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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, both the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This means that you can expect a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience from both switches. However, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch also offers a high-pitched sound profile, adding an extra layer of sound differentiation. Ultimately, if you enjoy the clacky sound profile, you can achieve similar results with both switches.
Moving on to feel, the Sarokeys BCP switch is characterized by a bouncy and creamy typing experience. The keys provide a spring-like, elastic feedback sensation combined with a smooth and buttery feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp and snappy tactile bump, making each keypress distinct and accentuated. The switch is described as accented, snappy, and bouncy, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. If you prefer a bouncy and creamy feel, the BCP switch would be the ideal choice, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch caters to those seeking a sharp and accentuated tactile feedback.
Taking all available information into consideration, both the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the BCP switch delivers a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a signature clacky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a sharp and tactile feedback with deep thocks. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel. Whether you prefer the bouncy and creamy feel of the BCP switch or the sharp and accentuated tactility of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, both options offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when selecting between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a signature clacky sound profile, the BCP may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and crisp tactile bump with deep resonating thocks, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch could better suit your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize feel or sound in your mechanical keyboard switch selection process. Whatever your choice may be, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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