Sarokeys BCP vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular linear options that stand out are the Sarokeys BCP and the TTC Yunhai. The Sarokeys BCP, an updated version of the beloved Black Cherry Pies, is celebrated for its creamy typing feel, characterized by a viscous and bouncy tactile sensation, coupled with a distinctive clacky auditory experience. This makes it an ideal choice for users who relish a playful and lively sound while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switches are designed for those who prefer a more subtle touch, offering a gentle, almost effortless actuation force that results in a deep, rounded sound profile. This lighter feel is perfect for typists seeking a smooth and quiet experience without sacrificing performance. Both switches offer unique advantages, catering to different preferences whether it's for a dynamic typing experience or a more serene one; 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
42g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the TTC Yunhai, it becomes clear that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality is significant as nylon is a widely recognized material in switch construction due to its unique acoustic properties. Both switches benefit from the deeper, fuller sound profile that nylon elicits during typing, a result of its relatively softer nature. This inherent softness allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, which contributes to a rounder and less harsh auditory experience. As a result, users of either switch can expect a similar auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Furthermore, the consistency in housing materials between the Sarokeys BCP and the TTC Yunhai extends to the tactile feel of each switch. Since both use nylon for their top and bottom housings, the tactile feedback when bottoming out and releasing a key will feel comparable. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound upon key release. Since both switches share the same material, the characteristics of the nylon will affect both the depth of the bottom-out sound and the pleasantness of the sound upon release, which is crucial for those who prioritize acoustic feedback in their typing experience.
In summary, the choice of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in the Sarokeys BCP and the TTC Yunhai leads to similar results in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. Users will enjoy a consistently duller and rounder sound, making for a satisfying typing experience. Even when upping the stakes with different switch designs or configurations, the use of nylon ensures that the fundamental acoustic and tactile characteristics remain aligned. This makes both switches an excellent choice for typists looking for a harmonious blend of sound and feel, regardless of the specific model they choose.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, notable differences arise. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light option that provides a slightly firmer typing experience. In contrast, the Yunhai switch is lighter, with an actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lower force makes the Yunhai ideal for users seeking a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while the BCP may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel. Overall, the differences in force suggest that the BCP will require more effort to actuate and bottom out than the Yunhai, making the latter a better choice for those who favor lighter switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, notable differences emerge. The BCP switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Yunhai switch features a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the BCP switch the shorter option, which may appeal to users seeking quicker response times, particularly favored by gamers. In contrast, the longer travel distance of the Yunhai switch might be preferable for those who enjoy a more tactile and pronounced feel with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding key responsiveness and depth.
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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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, the Sarokeys BCP switch stands out with its pronounced clacky auditory profile, characterized by sharp, crisp, and percussive sounds that make each keystroke very noticeable. This unique sound contributes to a lively typing experience, as the clackiness adds an energetic ambiance to your workflow. On the other hand, while the specific sound attributes of the TTC Yunhai switches were not detailed, it can be anticipated that their soft typing characteristics might yield a sound profile that is more muted—favoring a deeper, rounded tone that translates well into quieter environments. The overall sound experience, however, is heavily influenced by the keyboard and keycap choices, which means both switches' acoustic results can vary substantially based on user configuration.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys BCP switches provide a delightful typing experience through their bouncy and creamy qualities. The bouncy nature of these switches ensures a lively and spring-like feedback, allowing for an exhilarating typing rhythm, while the creamy texture offers a smooth glide across the keys, making keystrokes feel almost effortless. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai’s specifics regarding feel remain unspecified, but given their description as having an incredibly light actuation force, one can infer that they might provide a gentle, potentially softer typing sensation that caters to users who enjoy a low-effort keystroke.
In conclusion, while the Sarokeys BCP linear switch captures attention with its distinct clacky sound and lively, creamy feel, the TTC Yunhai switch seems geared towards those seeking a quieter and lighter typing experience, even though specific details on its sound and tactile characteristics are not provided. If you value a dynamic auditory feedback and a more pronounced tactile response, the BCP may be your ideal choice. Conversely, if you prefer a subtler and lighter feel, the Yunhai will likely meet your preferences, despite uncertainties about its concrete attributes. Each switch brings unique qualities to the table, catering to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound. If you enjoy a medium-light force with a lively, bouncy feel and a distinctly clacky auditory profile, the BCP is the way to go. It's especially suited for users who appreciate a tactile feedback with every keystroke, making it a wonderful option for gaming and typing bursts where responsiveness matters. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with an effortless actuating force and a deeper, more rounded sound that doesn't disrupt the flow of your work, the Yunhai is an excellent choice. Its gentle feel minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions, making it ideal for those who prioritize comfort over the auditory experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect how you want your keyboard to sound and feel as you type, catering it to your specific typing style and sound preference.
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