Kailh BCP vs. Gazzew LT

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves debating between the Kailh BCP and Gazzew LT, both of which offer unique linear experiences. The Kailh BCP, a reimagining of the classic Black Cherry Pie, stands out with its creamy, viscous feel and is designed to eliminate disassembly hassles. Users enjoy its distinctive poppy and clacky sound, which adds an auditory flair to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switches are celebrated for their captivating lilac hue and provide a "thocky" sound profile that delivers a deep, resonant auditory experience. With a seamless glide on every keypress, the LTs are perfect for those seeking a smooth typability along with rich auditory feedback. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the bouncy yet pronounced feedback of the BCP or the bassy, low-pitched thock of the LT, each switch offers its own charm. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh BCP Linear

Gazzew LT Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh BCP and Gazzew LT switches both utilize housing materials designed to enhance the acoustic and tactile experience of typing, although their compositions differ. The BCP features a traditional nylon top and bottom housing, well-known for its sound-absorbing qualities. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a muted sound while typing, as it minimizes the sharper tones often produced by harder plastics.

In contrast, the Gazzew LT incorporates a proprietary blend referred to as "boba plastic" for both the top and bottom housings. This material is specifically designed to replicate the desirable traits of softer plastics, akin to nylon, resulting in a similarly rich and deep sound profile. The LT's approach to housing materials aims to provide users with a comparable auditory experience, driven by the softness of the blend. Consequently, users of both switches can expect to enjoy a well-rounded sound profile that emphasizes depth, even though the specific materials are distinct.

Despite the different compositions, both switches share an essential characteristic: their capacity to deliver an inviting sound experience due to the softer nature of their materials. When comparing the two, it’s evident that, while the Kailh BCP relies on traditional nylon, the Gazzew LT achieves similar results through its proprietary blend. The nuanced differences in sound and feel between the two switches are influenced primarily by the specific properties of their respective materials, yet both succeed in delivering a satisfying tactile and auditory feedback that typists value. Ultimately, both switch types cater to users looking for a deeper sound profile and a softer touch with each keystroke.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, we observe distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP switch has a specified actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, while the Gazzew LT has a bottom out force of 65 grams, its actuation force was not provided. This leaves a gap in direct comparison for the actuation force. Nevertheless, we can infer that since the bottom out force of the LT is slightly higher than that of the BCP, the Gazzew LT is likely the heavier option overall. For those who favor a lighter switch that enhances typing comfort during prolonged sessions, the Kailh BCP would be the preferable choice. However, for users who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing, the Gazzew LT, with its higher bottom out force, may provide the experience they seek—assuming its actuation force aligns closely with or exceeds the BCP's.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Kailh BCP features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew LT has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the BCP switch provides a more traditional feel with slightly deeper engagement, which some users may find preferable for its hearty depth. On the other hand, the LT switch, with its 3.2 mm travel distance, caters to gamers and users who favor quicker response times, as shorter distances allow for faster actuation. Thus, if responsiveness is your priority, the Gazzew LT is the better choice, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Kailh BCP. Overall, the Kailh BCP is the longer switch, and the Gazzew LT is the shorter option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh BCP switches produce a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, which is reminiscent of classic mechanical switches that many typists find appealing. The auditory feedback is lively and can be enjoyable for those who appreciate a more engaging acoustic experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switches are known for their deep, resonant thockiness. This means their sound is characterized by a rich bassiness that delivers a satisfying thud or knock with every key press. The auditory experience of the GTs is a contrast to the BCPs, offering a more subdued, low-pitched sound that may be preferable for users looking for a quieter typing experience or those who appreciate a deeper audio aesthetic.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh BCP switches provide a creamy, viscous sensation with a bouncy characteristic that enhances the overall typing experience. This unique feel promotes an enjoyable tactile response with each keystroke, making it ideal for users seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback without the need for disassembly. Contrasting this, the Gazzew LT switches emphasize a seamless glide, providing a smooth, frictionless experience as fingers move across the keys. This lack of resistance allows for quick, effortless typing, appealing to users who prioritize a slick and fluid keystroke.

In summary, while the Kailh BCP switches are known for their lively poppy and clacky sounds coupled with a creamy, bouncy feel, the Gazzew LT switches stand out with their deep, thocky sound and smooth glide for a more fluid typing experience. Users will find both switch types deliver satisfying feedback, albeit in different styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile sensations, as each switch offers a unique combination that caters to different typing styles and environments.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Kailh BCP and the Gazzew LT linear switches, your preferences in sound and typing feel will be pivotal in making the best decision for your keyboard experience. If you lean towards a typing feel that is creamy and bouncy, complemented by a poppy and clacky sound profile, the Kailh BCP switches may resonate with you. Their medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams provides a satisfying resistance that strikes a balance between comfort and feedback. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a deep, rich auditory experience and a seamless glide, the Gazzew LT switches might be the better option. With a slightly heavier bottom-out force at 65 grams, the LT’s thocky and bassy sound profile delivers a gratifying keystroke that many find addictive. Ultimately, consider your own typing style and environment—whether you value a more playful and lively sound or prefer a deeper, more resonant auditory feedback—as this will guide you toward the switch that best fits your mechanical keyboard journey.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew LT Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more