Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Type L both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Sarokeys BCP is renowned for its bouncy and creamy feel, with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" stands out for its lightweight design, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the BCP provides a more tactile and auditory experience, the Type L offers a smoother and easier-to-press feel. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
51g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Type L, both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This means that typing on switches that use either of these materials will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing materials ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the BCP or Type L switches.
However, despite both switches featuring nylon housing materials for the top and bottom, there may be slight variations in sound and feel depending on how the housings are designed. For the BCP, the qualities of the material may be more pronounced in the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing of the BCP switch may have a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. In contrast, the Type L may distribute the characteristics of nylon more evenly between the top and bottom housings, resulting in a slightly different typing experience compared to the BCP.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron Type L may result in a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in both switches ensures that users can expect a deep and full sound profile with a dull and rounder sound. While there may be slight differences in how the housing materials affect the overall typing experience, the fundamental qualities of nylon as a switch housing material remain consistent across both the BCP and Type L switches.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The BCP has a medium-light actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Type L is lighter with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. For those who prefer lighter switches that allow for longer periods of typing or gaming, the Type L would be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the BCP. Both switches provide different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of users who value either lighter or heavier key presses.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the BCP switch may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Type L switch may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience. Both options offer different advantages, so it is important to consider what feels most comfortable and efficient for your typing needs.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 offers a distinctive and loud clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L delivers a more subdued and neutral sound, leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the BCP excels in producing a signature clacky noise, the Type L offers a quieter and more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys BCP is known for its bouncy and creamy sensation, offering a lively and elastic feedback while typing. The keys are described as smooth and buttery, providing a silky sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. In comparison, the Gateron Type L is characterized by its feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal exertion and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Type L's light actuation force offers a comfortable and low-impact typing feel, catering to those who prefer a lighter touch while typing.
Overall, while the Sarokeys BCP and Gateron Type L linear switches offer different sound and feel experiences, both switches excel in their own unique ways. The BCP stands out for its clacky and bouncy feel, providing a sharp and lively typing experience, while the Type L offers a more subdued sound and a feathery, easy-to-press feel. Depending on whether you prefer a louder, more tactile typing experience or a quieter, lighter touch, you can achieve similar results in terms of typing satisfaction with either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the Sarokeys BCP and Gateron Type L linear switches will come down to personal preference for sound and feel dynamics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the BCP if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams, enjoy a bouncy and creamy typing feel, and appreciate a signature clacky sound profile. On the other hand, opt for the Type L if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, desire a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience, and enjoy a more neutral and subdued sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and actuation force.
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