Jerrzi Orange vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the unique offerings of different brands, and two notable contenders are the Jerrzi Orange and the Kailh BCP. The Jerrzi Orange switches are recognized for their clacky and lively character, providing a lightweight feel that delivers crisp and audible feedback with every keystroke. This makes them a fantastic choice for those who crave a responsive typing experience that feels engaging and fun. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switches offer a reimagined take on the classic Black Cherry Pie, boasting a creamy, viscous, and bouncy feel that adds a touch of luxury to the typing experience. Their signature poppy sound further enhances the tactile sensation, appealing to users seeking a smooth yet pronounced feedback. While both switches share the linear characteristic, catering to users who prefer uninterrupted key presses, their distinct auditory and tactile qualities set them apart. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
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
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Orange and Kailh BCP switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence sound profiles and aesthetics. The Jerrzi Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, noted for its stiffness, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic makes polycarbonate a favorable choice for users who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback while typing, especially when RGB lighting is involved, as the translucency of the material enhances visual effects. In contrast, the Kailh BCP utilizes a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its softer texture that leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The absorbing nature of nylon contributes to a more muted and round sound, catering to users who prefer a less aggressive auditory experience while typing.
Both switches share the same nylon bottom housing component, which delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's inherent qualities. This commonality means that while the sound profile differs when engaging with the top housings, the bottom housing of both switches will produce a significantly more rounded sound when the key bottoms out. Therefore, despite their contrasting top housings, users can expect a similar typing feel and auditory resonance during the bottoming out because nylon effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a softer sound impact in both cases.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Jerrzi Orange and Kailh BCP switches showcase how they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Orange's polycarbonate top lends itself to a crisp, clear auditory experience, ideal for those who prefer assertive feedback, while the BCP's nylon top creates a soothing, fuller sound suited for comfortable typing sessions. However, since both switches share identical nylon bottoms, they maintain a cohesive feel during use, emphasizing that the unique qualities of each switch's top housing will shape the overall sound experience without compromising the foundational comfort provided by nylon in the bottom.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Orange linear switch to the Kailh BCP linear switch, a clear distinction arises in their actuation forces. The Jerrzi Orange requires a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch that allows for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Kailh BCP demands a heavier actuation force of 52 grams, which caters to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Jerrzi Orange remains unknown, while the Kailh BCP's bottom out force is set at 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. Without the bottom out force for the Orange, it's difficult to compare how they behave under full key press conditions. Overall, the Jerrzi Orange is the lighter switch, while the Kailh BCP is the heavier option, appealing to different preferences based on user comfort and typing style.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Kailh BCP linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Jerrzi Orange the longer option, providing a bit more depth in key presses, which some users may find appealing for a more tactile and deliberate typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh BCP's shorter travel distance might cater to gamers or users who prioritize quick response times and rapid key actuation. While both switches fall within a range that is more modern than traditional, with the standard travel distance being around 4.0 mm, the Jerrzi Orange could be perceived as offering a more balanced feel, whereas the Kailh BCP's 3.5 mm travel distance may feel more abrupt to those who are not accustomed to shorter switches. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preference for either a more pronounced keystroke or a swift, responsive experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 Jerrzi Orange linear switches are notably known for their clacky character, producing a sharp and snappy acoustic profile that can be described as bright and percussive. This lively sound is sure to keep enthusiasts engaged with each keystroke, creating a responsive auditory experience that stands out in a crowded market. In contrast, the sound profile of the Kailh BCP switches remains unspecified; however, it's important to note that sound characteristics can also vary based on keycap and board choices, meaning users might find unique acoustics even among similar switches.
In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Orange switches deliver a notably lightweight and feathery typing experience. With a gentle actuation force, they require minimal effort, reducing finger fatigue and making them ideal for extended typing sessions, whether for gaming or work. These switches offer streamlined responsiveness that enhances comfort and efficiency. The feeling of the Kailh BCP switches, however, is not defined in the provided information, leaving a gap in comparison regarding their tactile response and comfort level.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Orange linear switches present a vibrant auditory and tactile experience characterized by their clackiness and lightweight feel, making them an appealing choice for users seeking lively feedback with minimal exertion. The Kailh BCP switches, while lacking specific details, may offer their own unique performance qualities, yet the unknowns in sound and feel make direct comparisons difficult. Ultimately, each switch offers distinct advantages, and the choice will depend on personal preference and intended use.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you favor a lightweight, lively typing experience with a pronounced and clacky sound, the Jerrzi Orange switches are an excellent choice, especially if you're looking for something that minimizes finger fatigue during long sessions. Their feathery feel and easy-to-press action make them ideal for both gaming and extensive typing tasks where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Kailh BCP switches could be the way to go. Their creamy, elastic feel provides a satisfying bounce, perfect for those who enjoy a firmer response with each keystroke. The signature poppy sound profile also adds to the experience, making it fitting for users who appreciate auditory feedback from their typing. Ultimately, the right choice depends on whether you lean towards a lightweight, easily activated switch or one that offers more resistance and a distinct tactile feel.