Sarokeys BCP vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the Gazzew U4Tx offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Sarokeys BCP is renowned for its creamy and bouncy feel, along with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx combines the best of both worlds with a refined sound profile that features a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. It also provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump for a luxurious 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gazzew U4Tx both offer a deep and full sound profile due to their softness. The BCP utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich sound profile with its softness. While both materials provide a similar sound experience, their unique blends may offer subtle differences in acoustics when typing.
In terms of construction, the BCP and U4Tx differ in their top and bottom housing materials. The BCP uses nylon for both components, ensuring consistency in sound production throughout the switch. Conversely, the U4Tx employs its proprietary Gazzew blend for the top and bottom housings, potentially offering a varied sound experience depending on which part of the switch is engaged. This difference in housing materials may result in a more nuanced typing experience for users who prefer a particular sound profile.
Despite the variations in housing materials between the Sarokeys BCP and the Gazzew U4Tx, both switches aim to deliver a deep and rich sound profile through the softness of their materials. The BCP's use of nylon throughout its housing provides a consistent typing experience, while the U4Tx's blend of plastics may offer a more dynamic sound output depending on which housing is engaged. Ultimately, users of these switches can expect similar results in terms of sound quality, with the choice between the two likely coming down to personal preference for specific sound characteristics.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the BCP is also lighter at 57 grams, while the U4Tx has a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the BCP switch is lighter overall in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the U4Tx has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the BCP. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for quicker response times. The BCP's 3.2 mm travel distance offers a slightly snappier feel, while the U4Tx's 3.6 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth for those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the tactile feedback desired.
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 Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a clacky and sharp auditory experience, characterized by a crisp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a bassy and muted sound profile, with a deeper and richer tone that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, users can choose between the lively clack of the BCP or the quieter thock of the U4Tx.
Moving on to feel, the Sarokeys BCP switch is known for its bouncy and creamy typing experience. The keys provide a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation, coupled with a smooth and buttery feel that allows for effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity, ensuring a distinct and satisfying keypress with each press. Whether you prefer a bouncy and creamy feel or a sharp and intense tactile feedback, both switches provide unique sensations for typing enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer contrasting but equally appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the BCP delivers a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a sharp and percussive sound, the U4Tx provides a bassy and muted sound profile along with a sharp and intense tactile bump. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between Sarokeys BCP linear switches and Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a bouncy and creamy typing experience with a signature clacky sound profile, the BCP switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump with a bassy and muted sound profile that offers a refined typing experience, the U4Tx switches would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound characteristics to ensure an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.