Sarokeys BCP vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Sarokeys BCP and the Dareu Snow. The Sarokeys BCP is a linear switch that offers a creamy type feel with a viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation, along with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Dareu Snow is another linear switch but stands out for its innovative use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, providing a deeper sound signature when typing. While the BCP is known for its bouncy, creamy, and clacky characteristics, the Snow switch is recognized for being thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on the specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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
The Sarokeys BCP and Dareu Snow switches both use nylon for their top housing material. This commonality means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. However, while the BCP uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, the Snow utilizes POK material for its top housing. This results in the Snow switches being smoother, clackier, and more durable compared to the BCP switches, thanks to the POK material's higher coefficient of friction, exceptional strength, wear resistance, and shock resistance.
The difference in bottom housing material between the Sarokeys BCP and Dareu Snow switches lies in the fact that the BCP uses nylon for both top and bottom housing, whereas the Snow utilizes nylon only for the bottom housing. This means that when typing on the BCP switches, the qualities of the nylon material will be felt both when pressing down on a key and when letting go. In contrast, the Snow switches will have a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel due to the nylon bottom housing. However, the impact on sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the POK top housing, resulting in a smoother and more clacky sound experience.
Overall, while both the Sarokeys BCP and Dareu Snow switches provide a deep and full sound profile due to their nylon top housing, the Snow switches offer additional benefits with their POK top housing material. The POK material contributes to a smoother, clackier, and more durable typing experience compared to the BCP switches. The use of different materials for the top and bottom housing in the Snow switches also means that the typing experience is enhanced in terms of the sound on both the press and release of a key.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the BCP requires 57 grams, while the Snow needs 60 grams, making the Snow slightly heavier in that aspect. Both switches fall into the medium-light to medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the BCP, while users who enjoy a bit more resistance might opt for the Snow. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for faster response times. However, the Snow switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more tactile and deeper keystroke feel compared to the BCP switch. 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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 clacky auditory allure, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This signature poppy and clacky sound profile is sure to please those who enjoy a crisp, bright, and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a deeper sound signature, described as thocky, giving a rich and satisfying sound when typing. While the BCP excels in producing a clacky sound, the Snow switch focuses more on a deep and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal sound preference and typing environment.
When it comes to feel, both the Sarokeys BCP and Dareu Snow switches are characterized by a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback when typing. The BCP switch offers a creamy type feel, giving a smooth and buttery typing experience, akin to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys with a silky sensation. Similarly, the Snow switch also provides a bouncy feel, ensuring keys have a lively response and rebound when pressed. With both switches offering a bouncy feedback, users can expect a tactile and responsive typing experience that may vary slightly in terms of smoothness and flexibility. Ultimately, the decision between these switches may come down to personal preference for a smoother or more tactile typing experience.
Overall, both the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and Dareu Snow linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the BCP excels in delivering a clacky sound and creamy feel, the Snow switch distinguishes itself with a deeper thocky sound and bouncy feel. Choosing between these switches will largely depend on individual preferences for sound profile, tactile feedback, and typing experience. With both switches offering distinct qualities, users can expect a satisfying typing experience regardless of their final choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Sarokeys BCP linear switch or the Dareu Snow linear switch, you should take into account your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a keyboard switch with a clacky sound profile and a creamy, bouncy feel, then the BCP may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a deep thocky sound and a bouncy feel, the Snow switch might be the more suitable choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to what type of typing experience you value most.
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