Sarokeys BCP vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the SP-Star Yanyu offer unique experiences for typists. The Sarokeys BCP, a linear switch, is praised for its creamy and bouncy typing feel, along with a satisfying poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu, also a linear switch, is known for its delicate typing experience and crisp sound profile. While the BCP provides a bouncy and creamy sensation, the Yanyu offers a more neutral and polished feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and the SP-Star Yanyu both utilize nylon in their top housing, creating a deep and full sound profile when typing. However, the Yanyu's blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE adds a unique brightness to the sound, setting it apart from the BCP's more rounded tone. This difference in sound profile could appeal to users looking for a switch with a slightly sharper sound. In terms of feel, both switches will offer a similar typing experience due to the softness of nylon and its ability to absorb sound effectively.
In terms of bottom housing, both the BCP and the Yanyu use nylon, providing a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. The Yanyu's blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the bottom housing creates a pleasant, slightly brighter sound compared to the BCP's more rounded tone. This difference in sound may be more noticeable during bottom-out key presses, with the Yanyu offering a slightly crisper feel. Overall, users looking for a switch with a more distinct bottom-out sound may prefer the Yanyu over the BCP.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the SP-Star Yanyu, it's clear that both switches prioritize sound quality and typing experience. While the BCP offers a more rounded sound profile with its nylon housing, the Yanyu's unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE adds a brightness that sets it apart. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the crisper bottom-out sound of the Yanyu or the fuller sound of the BCP. Ultimately, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience thanks to the use of nylon in their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that the BCP switch has a slightly higher actuation force at 51 grams compared to the Yanyu's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Yanyu switch requires less force at 43 grams compared to the BCP's 57 grams. This makes the Yanyu switch lighter in terms of bottom out force. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Yanyu for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the stronger bottom out force of the BCP for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, users looking for a lighter switch may prefer the Yanyu, while those desiring a heavier switch may opt for the BCP.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The BCP's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Yanyu's longer travel distance might be preferred by those looking for a more substantial key press experience. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different user preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience 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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 distinctive clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This adds a satisfying auditory element to the typing experience, making each keystroke feel impactful and deliberate. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The Yanyu's thocky characteristics provide a deep, rich sound that can contribute to a serene typing atmosphere. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences and situations, so choosing between the two would depend on personal sound preferences and the surrounding environment.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is known for its bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a lively yet smooth typing experience. The elastic feedback from the bouncy feature and the buttery feel from the creamy aspect make typing on these switches a pleasurable and comfortable experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a mild and feathery feel, with light actuation force and gentle resistance. This provides a comfortable typing experience that is approachable to most users, reducing finger fatigue and allowing for extended typing sessions. Whether you prefer a lively and smooth feel or a gentle and light touch, both switches offer unique tactile experiences that can enhance your overall typing comfort and efficiency.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Sarokeys BCP and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches, it is clear that they cater to different preferences and priorities in terms of sound and feel. The BCP excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile and impactful typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, feathery feel, appealing to users looking for a more gentle and comfortable typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the Sarokeys BCP linear switch or the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force with a creamy and bouncy feel accompanied by a signature clacky sound profile, the BCP may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a crisp sound profile and a more delicate typing experience, the Yanyu could be the ideal option. Consider your typing style, desired sound, and overall feel when making your decision between these two linear switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs.
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