Kailh BCP vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, switch choice can significantly influence your typing experience, and two popular linear options to consider are the Kailh BCP and the KTT Mint. The Kailh BCP switches stand out with their reimagined design that eliminates the hassle of disassembly, providing a creamy, elastic feel that offers a unique bounce in addition to a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. This can be particularly appealing for typists and gamers looking for feedback and excitement in each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Mint switches are celebrated for their satisfyingly smooth typing experience thanks to their long pole stem, offering a poppy thockiness that many users find delightful. These switches are characterized by a light, fleeting feel, making them ideal for those who prefer a more subdued feedback mechanism without sacrificing performance. As you explore these two options, it's essential to consider what aspects of a switch resonate with your typing style and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh BCP switches feature a nylon top housing, while the KTT Mint switches employ polycarbonate for their top housing material. This fundamental difference in material leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing. The nylon top of the BCP switches spruces up a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, which typists may find comforting. In contrast, the KTT Mint’s polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer characteristics of polycarbonate enhance clarity and resonance, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing, especially in setups with RGB lighting that benefit aesthetically from transparent materials.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. In this case, they share a common element that contributes significantly to their performance. The nylon material, being soft and sound-absorbing, results in a similar deeper sound profile for both the Kailh BCP and KTT Mint switches when it comes to bottom-out sounds. Consequently, this shared nylon bottom housing ensures that regardless of the differences in the top housing acoustics, both switches deliver a consistent sensory experience stemming from their bottoms. Typists will note that while the top housing governs the crispness or softness of the sound during key release, it’s the bottom nylon housing that enhances the overall depth and warmth during actuation and bottoming out.
Understanding the dynamics between top and bottom housing materials is essential for users who are particular about their typing experience. The differing materials of the Kailh BCP and KTT Mint switches suggest that users may choose one over the other based on their preference for sound profile. While the BCP offers a more muted and warm auditory experience due to its nylon top, the KTT Mint appeals to those seeking clarity and resonance, thanks to the polycarbonate. However, the nylon bottoms create a bridge of similarity, ensuring that both switches maintain a rich and rounded sound during actuation. Ultimately, the choice boils down to personal preference regarding sound, touch, and visual appeal, giving users the flexibility to tailor their keyboard experiences to their liking.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy, while the KTT Mint has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. This means that for long typing or gaming sessions, the KTT Mint switch may provide a more comfortable experience for those who prefer lighter pressure, whereas the Kailh BCP will offer a more substantial feel and may appeal to users who favor a stronger push. Overall, you'd select the Kailh BCP if you enjoy a heavier typing experience, while the KTT Mint would be suited for those who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is clear that the BCP switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mint switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the BCP is the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel. Conversely, the Mint's 4 mm travel distance allows for a more pronounced keypress, which may be favored by users who prefer a deeper tactile experience. Thus, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference: if you value speed and agility in your keystrokes, the Kailh BCP is likely the better fit; however, if you appreciate a more cushioned and deliberate typing experience, the KTT Mint would be the preferable option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh BCP switch produces a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, which gives it a distinctive auditory character that stands out during typing. This sound is likely to appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound. The bass-heavy tone creates a mellow auditory experience that may be more suitable for environments where a quieter workspace is desired. The differences in sound stem from the construction and design of each switch, with the BCP delivering more pronounced acoustics while the Mint provides a more subdued and balanced sound.
When it comes to feel, the BCP switch is characterized by a creamy, elastic, and bouncy sensation, eliciting a dynamic response that many typists love for its tactile enjoyment. This contrasts with the Mint switch which is known for its mild and polished characteristics. The Mint’s typing experience is gentle and approachable, providing a smooth key travel that is refined and less aggressive than that of the BCP. For typists who prefer a more refined experience, the Mint switch may be the go-to choice, while the BCP will appeal to those seeking a more tactile and lively response.
In summary, both the Kailh BCP and KTT Mint switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The BCP delivers a poppy and clacky sound, alongside a bouncy typing feel, making it ideal for users who value feedback in their typing experience. Conversely, the Mint offers a low-pitched and neutral sound with a smooth, mild feel that appeals to those who prefer a quieter, yet refined typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a polished typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Kailh BCP and the KTT Mint linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing style and sound preferences. If you appreciate a medium-heavy feel and enjoy a tactile experience characterized by a poppy and clacky sound, the Kailh BCP switch will likely be your go-to. It’s perfect for typists who prefer a bouncier feedback while typing and don’t mind a more pronounced sound profile. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter typing experience with a smooth, polished feel, the KTT Mint switch might be better suited for you. Its gentler bottom-out force and low-pitched thockiness provide a satisfying yet muted sound that is excellent for quieter environments or prolonged typing sessions. Ultimately, consider your typing habits, the acoustic environment, and whether you are looking for feedback or smoothness in your keystrokes to make the best choice between these two linear switches.
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