Sarokeys BCP vs. HMX Twilight

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various options — and two noteworthy contenders in the linear switch category are the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Twilight. The BCP, or Black Cherry Pie, has a reputation for its unique blend of clacky auditory feedback and creamy typing feel. This switch stands out with its bouncy and elastic characteristics, offering a fun and tactile experience without the need for intricate modding. In contrast, the HMX Twilight prioritizes a more subdued auditory profile while maintaining an impressive travel distance of 3.85mm, making it a potentially ideal choice for those who appreciate a quieter typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. Both switches have distinct qualities that cater to different user preferences: the BCP appeals to those who enjoy an engaging sound and feel, while the Twilight targets users seeking a calmer yet satisfying linear 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

Sarokeys BCP Linear

HMX Twilight Linear

$5.50

$4.85 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Twilight employ nylon for their top and bottom housings, which creates an intriguing parallel in their construction and acoustic characteristics. The use of nylon as a housing material serves to enhance the auditory experience, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other, harder plastics. This is largely attributed to nylon's soft nature, which not only absorbs sound effectively but also contributes to a sound profile characterized by a duller and rounder tone. Consequently, users of both switches can expect a consistent auditory experience, with the materials contributing similarly to the sounds produced during both key presses and releases.

While the material composition of the BCP and Twilight is identical, the duality of the switch design means that the acoustic qualities will manifest differently depending on which part of the switch is engaged. Users will feel the impact of the bottom housing more prominently when a key is bottomed out, leading to a unique tactile sensation that reflects the softer nature of nylon. Conversely, when releasing a key, it is the top housing that dominates the sound, emphasizing the more subdued auditory experience resulting from the nylon material. This separation of functional characteristics ensures that even though the housing material is the same, the switches can feel and sound different depending on which aspect is being engaged.

Overall, the utilization of nylon in both the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Twilight offers users a reliable and consistent sound profile. However, the way the material interacts with the mechanics of the switch gives each product its own character. The interplay of the top and bottom housings means that despite their identical material properties, the overall experience is nuanced and multifaceted, providing each switch with distinct sensations during use. Whether one is engaged with the bottom housing or releasing a key, the end result is a harmonious and satisfying typing experience driven by the same underlying material.

Weight

When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the HMX Twilight linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to different user preferences. The BCP switch requires a heavier actuation force of 51 grams and reaches a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light option that offers a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Twilight switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of just 50 grams, positioning it as a lighter choice ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. The differences in these forces suggest that users who enjoy a lighter feel will favor the HMX Twilight for its ease of actuation and softer landing, while those who prefer a firmer response may opt for the Sarokeys BCP for its more deliberate resistance. Ultimately, if users have similar actuation forces, they can expect more comparable typing results, but in this case, the Twilight clearly stands out as the lighter switch.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch has a travel distance of 3.85 mm. Therefore, the BCP switch offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Twilight switch. For gamers or users who prioritize responsiveness, the shorter 3.2 mm travel distance of the BCP may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker key presses and faster response times. Conversely, the longer 3.85 mm travel distance of the Twilight switch may be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial feel with deeper key presses, providing a less abrupt typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends largely on personal preference regarding the balance between speed and tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is celebrated for its poppy and clacky audio profile. This distinctive sound is characterized by a sharp and snappy quality, giving a crisp and percussive auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch tends to offer a slightly quieter experience due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which may soften the clacky signature sound more commonly associated with HMX switches. However, it still retains that classic clacky characteristic, making it ideal for users who enjoy a mild yet enjoyable auditory response while typing. Ultimately, both switches provide a unique soundscape, influenced by factors such as keyboard construction and keycap material.

In terms of feel, the BCP switch stands out with its bouncy and creamy characteristics. The bounciness provides an elastic sensation that gives a lively and responsive feedback when typing, while the creamy texture enhances the overall typing experience, often feeling smooth and buttery. This combination allows for effortless keystrokes, as fingers glide gracefully across the keys. On the other hand, the tactile feel of the HMX Twilight switch is not specified, leaving its characteristics for users to discover upon personal use. Thus, while the BCP offers a definitive tactile experience, the Twilight’s feel remains an unknown variable.

In summary, both the Sarokeys BCP and HMX Twilight linear switches present unique auditory and tactile experiences for typists. The BCP's clacky sound and lively, creamy feel make it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a dynamic typing experience, whereas the Twilight provides a quieter type of clackiness with an undisclosed feel, potentially appealing to users seeking a more subdued auditory experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, these choices can lead to satisfying typing sessions with varying degrees of auditory and tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a more tactile and dynamic feel with a medium-light actuation force, the BCP's combination of a poppy, clacky sound and its bouncy, creamy texture may suit you well, especially if you appreciate auditory feedback and an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with an extended travel distance for quieter operation, the HMX Twilight linear switch, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, is a fitting choice. This switch would appeal to those who seek a smooth typing experience without the pronounced sound profile of the BCP. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, whether you seek lively feedback or a more subdued yet satisfying keystroke.

Mentioned in this article

Sarokeys BCP Linear

$5.50

$4.85 per 10

Learn more

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more