Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Smoothie are both linear mechanical keyboard switches. The BCP, known for its creamy and bouncy feel, offers a unique typing experience with a poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its buttery smoothness, thocky sound signature, and lightweight touch. While the BCP provides a more tactile and pronounced typing sensation, the Smoothie excels in delivering a quieter and smoother typing experience. 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
40g
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
3.60 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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Smoothie differ in terms of the top and bottom housings used. The BCP utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively. On the other hand, the Smoothie features POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound with deeper tones that are relatively more muted compared to nylon. Although both switches offer a similar experience with their respective housing materials, the BCP's nylon housing may provide a slightly rounder sound profile compared to the more muted tones of the Smoothie's POM housing.
In terms of sound profile and feel, the BCP's nylon housing may offer a slightly different experience compared to the Smoothie's POM housing. The BCP's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile when typing due to its softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties. Conversely, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also adds to the deeper sound profile but with a more muted quality. When it comes to the top housing, both switches have unique characteristics that impact the sound when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. The BCP's nylon top housing creates a fuller sound, while the Smoothie's POM top housing elicits a deeper and more muted sound.
Overall, the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Smoothie play a significant role in defining the sound profile and feel of each switch. While the BCP's nylon housing may offer a slightly rounder and fuller sound profile, the Smoothie's POM housing provides a unique and pleasing sound with deeper tones that are more muted. These differences in housing materials result in distinct typing experiences for users, with the BCP emphasizing a softer and more absorbing quality, while the Smoothie focuses on a deeper and more muted sound profile. Ultimately, both switches offer an exceptional typing experience, showcasing the impact that housing materials can have on the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP has a higher actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams, making the BCP require more force to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the BCP has a bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Smoothie, which has an unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the BCP is considered medium-light, while the Smoothie's weight is unknown. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Smoothie, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the BCP.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the BCP has a shorter travel distance at 3.2 mm compared to the Smoothie's 3.6 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. A shorter travel distance like the BCP can provide a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers looking for a fast-paced experience. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Smoothie may offer a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances and can deliver a comfortable typing experience, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels best for individual users.
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 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 Smoothie for $2.60.
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 it comes to sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, known for its sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky sound signature, characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying tone with a more subdued and low-pitched quality. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the BCP focusing on a crisp and bright clacky sound, while the Smoothie delivers a more mellow and bass-heavy thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is described as offering a bouncy and creamy typing experience. The keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, providing a lively feel with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Similarly, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is said to provide a buttery, creamy, and silky typing sensation, allowing for a seamless and effortless keystroke experience with minimal resistance. Both switches prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience, whether through a bouncy and elastic feel or a buttery and silky touch.
Overall, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of both sound and feel. While the BCP is known for its clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel, the Smoothie stands out for its thocky sound and buttery, silky sensation. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the poppy and clacky sound of the BCP or the deep and mellow tone of the Smoothie. When it comes to feel, the options range from a bouncy and elastic experience with the BCP to a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation with the Smoothie. Ultimately, both switches provide quality options for those seeking a premium mechanical keyboard switch experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Sarokeys BCP linear switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you will want to take into account your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams and enjoy a bouncy and creamy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound, the Sarokeys BCP switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an unknown bottom out force that offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and priorities in terms of feel and sound.
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