HMX Deep Navy vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Deep Navy and Kailh BCP stand out as notable linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Deep Navy switches are celebrated for their rich, sharp sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to their full nylon construction and Ly stem design. This makes them an excellent choice for users seeking a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with a distinctive acoustic feedback. In contrast, Kailh’s BCP switches bring a creative twist to the classic Black Cherry Pies, featuring a creamy, elastic feel that results in a bouncy, tactile experience. The BCPs are particularly appealing for those who appreciate a poppy and clacky sound profile, elevating the auditory experience with each press. While both switches are linear and designed for a smooth keystroke, their differing acoustic qualities and tactile sensations make each one appealing in distinct ways. 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
40g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Deep Navy and Kailh BCP switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which leads to a striking similarity in the characteristics of their sound profiles and feel. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic compared to harder materials, allowing it to absorb sound effectively. This results in a deeper, fuller sound that many users find desirable when typing. Whether using the HMX Deep Navy or the Kailh BCP, enthusiasts can expect a duller and rounder auditory experience, enhancing the overall typing satisfaction. The shared choice of nylon undoubtedly influences the tactile sensations users will feel when typing, as the properties of this material resonate through both switches.
While both switches feature nylon housing, the tactile experience can be nuanced by the interplay of the top and bottom housings. The Deep Navy's design, with its nylon components, will generate a consistent sound and feel, where the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound, while the top housing enhances the sound upon release of a key. The same goes for the Kailh BCP, where the nylon materials similarly divide the contributions to the switch's overall acoustic profile. Although both switches use identical housing materials, slight differences in design or how these materials are shaped could yield variations in the typing experience, focusing on specific aspects of impact and release.
In essence, while both the HMX Deep Navy and Kailh BCP utilize nylon for their housing, the resultant sound and typing experience might differ when considering design minutiae. However, users can achieve similar auditory results due to the inherent properties of nylon leading to a consistent sound character across both switch types. This understanding allows users to appreciate both switches for their craftsmanship while acknowledging that the qualities imparted by the nylon material remain a common thread between them. Whether a typist leans towards the Deep Navy or the BCP, the expectation of a warm and resonant sound profile remains constant, illustrating how effectively similar materials can forge a comparable experience.
Weight
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch present distinct actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different user preferences. The Deep Navy has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those looking for a comfortable typing experience during extended use, such as in a work environment or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Kailh BCP features a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile feedback while typing. Therefore, while the Deep Navy offers a lighter touch for ease of use, the BCP provides a firmer feel for those who appreciate a stronger push resistance. As a result, if you're deciding between the two, the Deep Navy will feel lighter and more forgiving, while the BCP will deliver a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch exhibit slightly different travel distances, with the Deep Navy measuring 3.6 mm and the BCP at 3.5 mm. This small discrepancy indicates that the Deep Navy offers a marginally longer travel distance compared to the BCP, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keypress experience. In contrast, gamers often favor shorter travel distances for their quicker response times, making the BCP a compelling choice for those seeking faster actuation. While both switches are designed to enhance typing or gaming experiences, the Deep Navy's longer travel distance may provide a more pronounced tactile feel, whereas the BCP's shorter travel distance could feel more immediate and responsive. Thus, the choice between these two switches largely depends on personal preference for key travel depth and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
The Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy switch is characterized by a rich and sharp tone, which adds a unique auditory dimension to the typing experience. Users can expect an engaging acoustic feedback with every keystroke, likely due to its robust full nylon construction. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP switch offers a more poppy and clacky sound profile, reminiscent of the iconic Black Cherry Pies but with a modern twist that eliminates messy disassembly issues. Both switches showcase distinct sound qualities that can be further influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but the Deep Navy leans towards a deeper resonance while the BCP has a more pronounced pop.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Deep Navy excels in delivering a silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its Ly stem design that enhances the consistency and fluidity of keystrokes. In contrast, the Kailh BCP provides an entirely different tactile sensation, embracing a creamy and elastic feedback that some users may find reminiscent of softer, more bouncy switches. This bounciness adds a playful element to the typing experience that is distinct from the smoothness of the Deep Navy. Thus, while both switches cater to enthusiasts of linear options, they evoke differing sensations that contribute to their appeal.
In conclusion, the HMX Deep Navy and Kailh BCP linear switches present two varied yet fascinating options for keyboard enthusiasts. The Deep Navy captures attention with its rich sound and silky smooth keystrokes, while the BCP entices with its bouncy feel and poppy music. When choosing between the two, the decision may ultimately come down to personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback, as both switches offer a high-quality linear typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, it’s crucial to align your preferences with the distinct characteristics of each. If you favor a lighter actuation force and a smooth, immersive typing experience combined with a rich sound profile, the HMX Deep Navy would be a fantastic choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force is ideal for those who prefer an effortless keystroke, making it great for extended typing sessions or gaming, where speed and fluency matter. On the other hand, opting for the Kailh BCP is the way to go if you appreciate a slightly heavier tactile feedback with a unique, bouncy sensation. The 63.5-gram bottom-out force provides a more deliberate feel, which some typists find satisfying, especially when they enjoy the signature poppy and clacky sounds associated with these switches. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a lightweight, smooth experience or a more tactile, robust feel that offers versatility across different types of usage.
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