Sarokeys BCP vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP, a linear switch, to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), a tactile switch, there are distinct differences in their characteristics and functionalities. The BCP from Sarokeys provides a bouncy, creamy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile response and audible feedback. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a tactile bump and a quieter typing experience, perfect for noise-sensitive environments. While the BCP focuses on providing a unique typing sensation with its custom molds, the Silent T1 emphasizes a more subdued and polished 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
67g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), we can see that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that when typing on both switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the nylon material. The absorption of sound by nylon also results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users will experience a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing materials. The BCP features a nylon top housing, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the BCP will provide a softer and more absorbing sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 will offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material in the Silent T1's top housing makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects, which can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Sarokeys BCP and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches offer a deep and full sound profile with their nylon bottom housing, the BCP provides a softer and more absorbing sound with its nylon top housing, while the Silent T1 delivers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Whether users prioritize sound quality or visual appeal with RGB lighting effects, both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the BCP has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Silent T1's unknown actuation force. Furthermore, the bottom out force of the BCP at 57 grams is also lighter than the Silent T1's bottom out force of 67 grams. The BCP provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Silent T1 offers a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the BCP, while those who desire a stronger push for a more robust typing experience may opt for the Silent T1. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can see that the BCP has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the BCP is the shorter option while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the longer one. The BCP's 3.2 mm travel distance may appeal to those seeking a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) with its 4 mm travel distance may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a deeper and more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches 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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch provides a clacky and percussive sound profile, giving a sharp and snappy auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a muted sound, producing softer and quieter keystrokes ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While the BCP is known for its signature clacky sound, the Silent T1 provides a subdued audio feedback that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience. The keys have a spring-like elastic feedback that is bouncy, along with a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a stepped and accented tactile feel, offering a mild yet prominent amount of tactility with a polished finish for smooth key travel. The Sarokeys BCP linear switch excels in providing a lively and creamy typing experience, while the Silent T1 offers a more subtle and refined tactile feedback.
Considering the sound and feel qualities of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that they offer distinct subjective experiences to users. While the BCP excels in providing a clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel, the Silent T1 prioritizes a muted sound and stepped, accented tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the sharp and lively experience of the BCP or the subdued and refined feedback of the Silent T1. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your preferences for key feel and sound. If you enjoy a bouncy and creamy typing experience with a poppy and clacky sound profile, the BCP may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bump with a padded bottom-out feel and muted sound, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) may be more suitable, especially if you are in a noise-sensitive environment. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a specific key feel or sound profile in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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