Sarokeys BCP vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing and gaming experience, with each offering unique traits suited to different preferences. The Sarokeys BCP, a modern interpretation of the popular Black Cherry Pie switch, provides users with a delightful blend of bouncy elasticity and creamy typing sensations. Known for its clacky auditory allure, the BCP delivers a satisfying tactile feedback that many typists enjoy. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is engineered specifically for gamers, featuring an ultra-low actuation force of just 1mm, which enables lightning-fast key presses perfect for rapid-fire gaming scenarios. While both switches fall under the linear category, catering to those who prefer smooth keystrokes without tactile bumps, the BCP leans towards a more textured auditory experience, whereas the Vintage Citrus prioritizes speed and efficiency. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
51g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.00 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-staged spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Vintage Citrus both utilize nylon for their switch housings, which establishes a foundational similarity between the two. Notably, their top and bottom housings are made of the same material, resulting in consistent sound production and feel across both models. The characteristic of nylon, being a softer plastic, allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs sound rather than reflecting it, producing a more muted auditory experience. Thus, for users seeking a rich typing experience, both models employ this common material to achieve similar acoustic results, ensuring that both switches will exhibit a comparable sound signature when typing.
Diving into specific sound profiles, both the BCP and Vintage Citrus detail how their nylon components contribute an absorbing quality to the overall sound. The bottom housing's influence is particularly vital when bottoming out, as it directly impacts the tactile feedback a typist experiences. Meanwhile, the top housing accentuates the sound produced during the release of a keypress. Since both the BCP and Vintage Citrus share nylon for both top and bottom housings, users can expect a uniformly dampened sound experience where the characteristics of nylon come into play at all stages of key engagement, leading to a cohesive tactile and auditory experience.
Despite sharing the same material, nuances in design elements and engineering might slightly differentiate the experiences between the two models. If the configurations or internal workings vary, even slight variations could modify the tactile feedback or sound profile when typing. Nevertheless, since the foundational materials are consistent—nylon throughout—typists can confidently anticipate a sound and feel that emphasizes richness and depth. Therefore, while there may be design differences as well as potential for variances in user experience, the inherent properties of nylon ensure that both the Sarokeys BCP and HMX Vintage Citrus will deliver notably similar and satisfying results in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, both exhibit medium-light characteristics, but they differ in their specific actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP switch requires an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Vintage Citrus has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This makes the Vintage Citrus the lighter option overall, appealing to users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience for extended periods, such as during long work sessions or gaming marathons. Conversely, the BCP switch offers a heavier feel, which may be preferred by those who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the difference in force can influence user preference based on desired typing style.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch differ in their travel distances, offering distinct tactile experiences for users. The BCP features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Vintage Citrus has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This means that the BCP switch allows for a deeper keypress, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus, with its shorter travel distance, may offer quicker response times that cater to gamers seeking rapid actuation. Ultimately, those who favor a responsive touch might find the Vintage Citrus more to their liking, while users desiring a hearty depth in each keystroke could opt for the BCP.
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 HMX Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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 is characterized by its poppy and clacky auditory signature, delivering a sharp, crisp, and percussive feedback that many enthusiasts appreciate. This clackiness is reminiscent of the classic switches from which it derives its inspiration, providing a satisfying sound that enhances the typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, while the HMX Vintage Citrus switch also features a bright, clacky sound profile, detailed comparisons on its specific auditory qualities are unavailable. Regardless, both switches promise a lively auditory experience that can depend on external factors like the keyboard case and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the BCP excels with its distinctive bouncy and creamy typing experience. The bounciness of the BCP provides a spring-like feedback that results in an engaging and lively interaction with each keystroke, while the creamy sensation allows for smooth gliding action that feels effortless. The tactile sensations are further enhanced through thoughtful design, making it a pleasure to type or game on. In contrast, details about the feel of the Vintage Citrus switch remain unknown; however, it is designed for gamers, suggesting that it may prioritize a different kind of responsiveness geared towards quick inputs rather than a plush typing experience.
Overall, while the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus switch each have their unique traits, they share some common ground in sound profile, particularly with a notable clackiness that can enhance gaming and typing. The BCP stands out with its carefully crafted feel thanks to its bouncy and creamy characteristics, while the specifics of the Vintage Citrus in this aspect remain a mystery. Ultimately, if you appreciate a lively auditory experience coupled with a smooth tactile feel, the BCP is a fantastic choice that delivers on those fronts, whereas the Vintage Citrus may cater well to those focused on swift keystrokes in gaming scenarios.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing and gaming preferences. If you lean towards a tactile experience with a unique auditory signature, the BCP is an excellent option. Its 57-gram bottom-out force, combined with its bouncy and creamy feel, offers a lively typing experience that many find satisfying, especially in casual use or when tackling longer typing tasks. Moreover, the clacky sound profile adds a delightful charm, making it a great choice for those who enjoy the auditory feedback of their keystrokes.
Conversely, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, particularly for gaming, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch would be more suitable for you. With its lower actuation force of just 53 grams and a quick 1mm actuation distance, it allows for rapid-fire inputs, ensuring you can keep pace in fast-paced gaming situations. Although the description doesn't delve deeply into its tactile feedback, the emphasis on a smooth pressing experience suggests it might feel consistent and fatigue-free during long sessions. So, choose the BCP for a blend of tactile enjoyment and sound, while the Vintage Citrus will serve you better for those high-speed gaming moments. Your keyboard experience will ultimately reflect your individual priorities, enhancing your overall enjoyment.
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