Kailh BCP vs. HMX Lucky

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh BCP and the HMX Lucky represent two intriguing choices for anyone seeking a linear typing experience, each with its own unique characteristics. The Kailh BCP stands out with its reimagined take on the iconic Black Cherry Pie switches, delivering a typing feel that is creamy and bouncy, enhanced by a distinctively poppy and clacky sound profile. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate an engaging auditory feedback alongside a playful tactile response. In contrast, the HMX Lucky offers a softer, glittery nylon housing that yields a more neutral yet still deeply satisfying typing experience. With its smooth operation and polished feel, the Lucky switch appeals to those who prioritize sheer typing comfort and effortless key presses. Both switches have their appealing attributes, catering to different preferences for sound and feel; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.

By the numbers

Kailh BCP Linear

HMX Lucky Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh BCP and HMX Lucky both utilize nylon for their switch housings, demonstrating a shared commitment to using high-quality materials. In both models, the nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is characteristic of this classic material. Because nylon is a softer plastic, it effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder auditory feedback. This commonality between the two switches highlights how they can elicit similar acoustic responses, making them attractive options for users seeking a satisfying typing experience.

In terms of bottom housing, the BCP and Lucky also align in their use of nylon, further enhancing the acoustic and tactile qualities of both switches. Just as with the top housing, the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile, although it plays a more significant role in determining the bottom-out feel and sound when a key is pressed all the way down. The durability and softness of nylon in both cases creates a cohesive experience, ensuring that the typist enjoys a consistent auditory and tactile feedback regardless of the specific switch employed.

Despite their similarities in materials, the impact of the switch design can vary. If either the BCP or Lucky features different materials in the top and bottom housings, the sound profile may be influenced by which part of the switch the user is interacting with. For instance, a harder material in either housing could lead to a sharper sound or altered tactile feedback. However, since both switches fully utilize nylon in both the top and bottom housings, users can expect a consistent sound and feel profile from both the Kailh BCP and HMX Lucky. Consequently, whether using one or the other, you can rely on achieving a rich typing experience that benefits from the many qualities that nylon brings to mechanical keyboard switches.

Weight

The Kailh BCP linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch present a notable comparison in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The BCP has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the HMX Lucky features a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the BCP requires more effort to press down and bottom out, making it a better choice for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel. In contrast, the HMX Lucky is geared towards those who appreciate lighter switches, facilitating easier keystrokes that can enhance typing comfort during extended use or long gaming sessions. Overall, if you're looking for a switch that feels heavier and more solid, the Kailh BCP would be suitable, whereas the HMX Lucky would be a preferred option for those who favor ease of actuation with its lighter force.

Travel distance

The Kailh BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Lucky linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the BCP is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that is often favored by gamers seeking quicker actuation. In contrast, the Lucky switch, with its longer 3.8 mm travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced depth when pressing down on keys, resulting in a less abrupt typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Kailh BCP is the better choice, whereas the HMX Lucky suits individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Kailh BCP and HMX Lucky linear switches share a notably clacky sound profile, which is characterized by sharp and snappy auditory feedback upon actuation. This produces a crisp, bright, and percussive sound, making typing experiences with either switch satisfying. However, it's essential to note that the overall sound can still be influenced by the choice of keyboard layout, case materials, and keycaps used, meaning users might experience variations even with the same switch type.

In terms of feel, the Kailh BCP stands out with its unique combination of a bouncy and creamy tactile sensation, offering a lively, elastic feedback along with a smooth, buttery experience for the fingers. This makes every keystroke feel effortless, like gliding across the keys. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switches also deliver a bouncy feel, but they complement it with a silky and polished typing experience. The emphasis on a refined finish results in smooth key travel and minimized resistance, which can further enhance user satisfaction during long typing sessions. Overall, while both switches provide a bouncy tactile feedback, the BCP leans more towards a creamy sensation, whereas the Lucky excels in smoothness and refinement.

In conclusion, both the Kailh BCP and HMX Lucky switches present noteworthy attributes, especially in sound where they align closely. The BCP distinguishes itself with its creamy feel, while the Lucky shines with its silky smoothness and polished finish. Together, they cater to different preferences, but users can expect satisfying results from either switch depending on what qualities they prioritize—whether it's a clacky auditory feedback paired with a lively bounce or a smoother, more refined typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek. If you prefer a more robust and tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, and enjoy a lively and bouncy feel along with a clacky sound profile, the BCP switch is likely the better choice for you. It's perfect for those who appreciate a bit of resistance and a satisfying auditory feedback as you type. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter and less demanding experience, the Lucky switch with its 43 grams of bottom-out force will offer a smoother, silky feel while still providing that delightful clack when pressed. The Lucky's polished texture makes it an excellent option for long typing sessions or for those who prioritize a refined and effortless feel. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, so consider your typing style, the sound you enjoy, and how much force you prefer to exert while typing to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more