Sarokeys BCP vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Duck, a tactile switch, offer unique experiences for typing enthusiasts. The BCP from Sarokeys provides a creamy and bouncy sensation with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile and auditory typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, ideal for those seeking a gentle tactility while typing. Each switch has its own set of qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and the SP-Star Duck both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The BCP uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer and sound-absorbing properties. In contrast, the Duck utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and more resonant sound profile as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic. While both switches provide unique sound profiles, the BCP's nylon housing offers a duller and rounder sound compared to the Duck's crisper and clearer sound from its polycarbonate housing.
Despite the differences in housing materials for the top and bottom housings of the Sarokeys BCP and the SP-Star Duck, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience. The BCP's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on a key, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Duck creates a sharper and clearer sound when releasing a key. Both switches take advantage of the unique properties of their housing materials to deliver distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether it's the rounder sound of the BCP's nylon housing or the crisper sound of the Duck's polycarbonate housing, each switch offers a different typing experience based on its housing material.
While the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the SP-Star Duck may differ in terms of nylon and polycarbonate, both switches ultimately showcase the importance of housing materials in sound production. The BCP's nylon housing absorbs more sound and produces a duller yet fuller sound profile, while the Duck's polycarbonate housing results in a clearer and sharper sound that resonates well. Despite these differences, both switches highlight how housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound quality of a switch. Whether it's the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound or the top housing on the release sound, the choice of housing material significantly influences the typing experience.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the BCP is slightly heavier at 57 grams, while the Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, but the BCP is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the BCP may be more suitable for longer typing sessions, while the Duck may offer a slightly more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is clear that the BCP has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm compared to the Duck's 4 mm travel distance. The BCP would offer a quicker and more responsive typing experience, which would be preferred by gamers looking for fast response times. On the other hand, the Duck with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deeper keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of desired travel distance.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch is known for its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, giving off a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This auditory allure is complemented by a creamy and bouncy feel, providing a viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation when typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a clean and crispy sound profile with a gentle tactility, providing a more subtle typing experience. The Duck switch is described as mild, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and uniform typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the BCP and Duck switches offer different sound and feel qualities, both choices provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on whether you prefer a more clacky and bouncy feel with the BCP or a gentler and smoother typing experience with the Duck. Regardless of the choice, both switches promise a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a bouncy and clacky typing sensation with a medium-light bottom out force, the BCP switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a mild and buttery tactile feel with a medium bottom out force, the Duck switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force when selecting the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences. Consider these factors carefully to make an informed decision on which switch would enhance your typing experience the most.
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