Sarokeys BCP vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Xinhai, both of which are linear switches. The Sarokeys BCP is a streamlined version of the iconic Black Cherry Pie switches, known for their bouncy, creamy feel and signature clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai stands out for its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem combination, offering a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While both switches share characteristics such as bounciness and clackiness, they differ in terms of materials used and sound profiles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
37g
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
3.40 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
The Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Xinhai both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, when it comes to their top housing materials, the BCP's nylon top housing differs from the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic properties. In terms of aesthetics, the Xinhai's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
While the bottom housings of both the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Xinhai are made of nylon, providing a consistent typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, the top housings of these switches offer distinct characteristics. The BCP's nylon top housing creates a similar sound profile to its bottom housing, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Xinhai's top housing allows for RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and visual design.
The division of different housing materials between the top and bottom of the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Xinhai impacts the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by each material are evident in the sound and feel of typing on these switches. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, giving users the opportunity to customize their switch based on their preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that the Xinhai is lighter in both categories. The BCP has a medium-light actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Xinhai has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Xinhai will require less force to trigger a keystroke and less force to press all the way down compared to the BCP. If you prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Xinhai may be the better option. However, if you prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the BCP may be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Xinhai has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the BCP. The 0.2 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can affect the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the BCP with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Xinhai. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels more comfortable to the user.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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, both the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Xinhai switches are described as having a clacky sound profile. This means that they both produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. However, it is important to note that the actual sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Sarokeys BCP and the HMX Xinhai switches are known for their bouncy and creamy sensations. Bouncy switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback, giving a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Creamy switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a silky sensation that allows fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. This means that users can expect a tactile and responsive typing experience with both switches.
In conclusion, both the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer users a pleasant typing experience with their clacky sound profiles and bouncy, creamy feel. Whether you choose the BCP for its iconic reputation or the Xinhai for its unique materials, you can be assured that you will get similar results in terms of sound and feel. Consider your personal preferences and typing style to determine which switch would best suit your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy, creamy typing experience with a distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, then the Sarokeys BCP switch would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a combination of softer acoustics with precise performance, embodied in a switch with a PA12 top housing and POM stem, then the HMX Xinhai switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and typing style when deciding between these two switches.
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