Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Kailh BCP offer distinct yet appealing experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Glory Yellow, a linear switch that is heavier in its lineup, is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and satisfying travel distance, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more resistance during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP reimagines the beloved Black Cherry Pie switch, delivering a unique combination of creamy, viscous, and bouncy characteristics with an unmistakable poppy and clacky sound profile that can add a playful aspect to typing. While the Glory Yellow focuses on a refined and steady typing feel, the BCP shifts the emphasis to sensory feedback and auditory pleasure. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When considering the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Kailh BCP switches, it is important to note that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice brings about a number of acoustic benefits. Nylon, being a softer plastic compared to alternatives like polycarbonate or ABS, significantly affects the sound profile of the switches. Users can expect a deeper and fuller auditory experience from both switches, characterized by a duller and rounder sound when typing. This similarity in materials contributes to a comparable tactile and auditory feedback that enthusiasts look for in mechanical keyboards.
While the top and bottom housings of both the Glory Yellow and BCP switches are made of nylon, the overall experience may still differ based on other aspects of their design, such as stem type or spring tension. The functionality of the switches is impacted by how each component interacts with one another. Though both switches will deliver a muted sound profile due to the nylon material, nuances in feel or audible feedback in specific scenarios could arise from design choices beyond just the housing material. Thus, while the nylon housings support a unified goal of rich sound absorption, slight variations in performance could still be perceived by the user.
In essence, the commonality in housing materials lays a foundation for similar results regarding sound and feel between the Gateron Glory Yellow and Kailh BCP switches. This shared characteristic ties into the broader experience of mechanical switch users, who often prioritize sound dampening and tactile satisfaction. However, the final experience will be shaped by the interplay of various switch components. It's clear to see that, while the nylon housings pave the way for a solid auditory experience, complete satisfaction with either switch will arise from the unique attributes offered by their complete designs.
Weight
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch exhibit notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force, impacting user experience significantly. The Glory Yellow features an actuation force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option of the two, which could be beneficial for users seeking a more effortless typing experience over extended periods. In contrast, the Kailh BCP requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Glory Yellow's bottom out force is unknown, while the BCP has a measurable bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This substantial bottom out force in the BCP may appeal to those who favor a more tactile and pronounced keystroke that provides a sense of heft. Thus, while the Glory Yellow is lighter in actuation, the Kailh BCP offers a significantly heavier bottom out experience, catering to different preferences in typing and gaming.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Glory Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the BCP has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Glory Yellow offers a more substantial depth during key presses, potentially appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced feel and feedback from their switches. On the other hand, the BCP, with its shorter travel distance, may be more suitable for gamers or those who favor quicker response times in their typing or gaming experiences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on personal preferences regarding depth and responsiveness, given that the Glory Yellow provides a longer travel distance than the BCP.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch remains somewhat undefined, presenting an opportunity for experimentation based on the keyboard setup and keycap choice. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch is characterized by its clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy auditory feedback when pressed. This crisp, bright, and percussive sound contributes to an engaging typing experience, adding a layer of auditory dynamism that many users find satisfying.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch offers a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, designed to enhance the overall typing experience. Meanwhile, the Kailh BCP switch introduces a distinctly different sensation, marked by its bouncy feedback that provides a lively and spring-like return with each keystroke. The BCP's creamy texture further enhances this experience, offering a buttery smoothness that allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys, allowing for a compelling combination of elastic rebound and silky ease.
In summary, the Gateron Glory Yellow and Kailh BCP switches cater to different user preferences and tactile demands. While the Glory Yellow emphasizes a smooth, refined travel with an unclear sound profile, the BCP delivers an exciting clack with a unique interplay of bounce and creaminess in its feel. These distinctions provide users with effective choices depending on their desired typing experience; however, sound may vary based on external factors like board and keycaps, and the feel of the switches showcases both smoother and livelier characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Glory Yellow linear switches and Kailh BCP linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for tactile feedback and typing sound. If you are seeking a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with a modest travel distance, the Gateron Glory Yellow is an excellent option. Its design promises delightful keystrokes, making it suitable for both gaming and extended typing sessions without overwhelming resistance or sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a more engaging typing experience marked by a distinctive clacky sound and a springy, bouncy feel, the Kailh BCP switches would be the better choice. The BCP’s creaminess and elasticity provide a lively typing sensation that can enhance your interaction with the keyboard, especially if you enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Thus, consider your priorities: go for the Gateron Glory Yellow for a quieter and smoother ride, or choose the Kailh BCP for a more dynamic and expressive typing atmosphere.
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