Kailh BCP vs. Cherry MX Orange

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh BCP and Cherry MX Orange both present compelling options for users who prefer linear switches, yet they exhibit distinct characteristics that cater to varying preferences. The Kailh BCP stands out with its unique blend of creaminess and bounciness, offering a tactile yet fluid typing experience that is complemented by its signature poppy and clacky sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback along with a responsive feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, reissued with enhancements, combine reliability with a smooth keystroke, appealing to users who seek a more subdued experience without sacrificing performance. While both switches serve the needs of linear switch enthusiasts, they do so through different sensory experiences—one emphasizes sound and bounce, while the other favors consistency and reliability. 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

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh BCP and Cherry MX Orange switches both feature nylon as their primary housing material, which plays a crucial role in defining their acoustic characteristics. Nylon is renowned for its softer and more resilient properties compared to harder plastics, which results in a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This shared characteristic means that users can expect a tactile experience that promotes a muted sound, contributing to a quieter workspace or gaming environment. Both switch types benefit from the sound absorption qualities of nylon, producing a cleaner audio output that is less likely to create sharp echoes or clangs typically associated with harder plastic materials.

However, while both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, the actual geometry and design configurations may slightly differ, leading to nuanced variations in performance. Each housing's shape and structure will influence how the switch feels and sounds upon actuation and release. For instance, while both switches provide a cushioned landing due to the nylon composition, the specific contours and tolerances in the construction can lead to differing experiences in key press feel and rebound characteristics. Furthermore, if any internal or external components differ—such as springs or mechanisms—the overall sensory feedback when typing could present contrasting sensations, despite the shared housing material.

In essence, while the Kailh BCP and Cherry MX Orange employ nylon in their housing, promising similar sound profiles and tactile qualities, their performance may still present subtle differences due to design variations. Users looking for an acoustic experience that minimizes sharper sounds while delivering deep audio feedback will appreciate the familiarity of both switches. However, enthusiasts seeking to further optimize their typing experience should closely consider these design nuances, as the integration of different internal components and external designs may result in unique auditory and tactile outcomes, allowing for personal preference to take precedence.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences among users. The Kailh BCP has an actuation force of 52 grams, which is moderately light, making it suitable for longer typing sessions and gaming without causing significant fatigue. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial feel for users who prefer a firmer push. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange remains unknown, which means we cannot directly compare this aspect to the BCP's bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This indicates the Kailh BCP provides a more well-defined tactile experience when bottoming out, whereas the Cherry MX Orange may feel different at full keypress without specific data. Overall, while both switches provide a satisfying linear typing experience, the Kailh BCP is lighter with a definitive bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer less resistance, while the Cherry MX Orange caters to users seeking a heavier touch.

Travel distance

The Kailh BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference suggests that the BCP switch provides a more responsive experience, making it a preferable choice for gamers seeking quicker key presses. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange, with its greater travel distance, may appeal to users who favor a more substantial feel when typing, allowing for a deeper press that some may find more satisfying. Thus, while both switches offer linear feedback, the BCP is shorter and could facilitate faster response times, whereas the MX Orange offers a lengthier travel distance, catering to those who appreciate a fuller typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Kailh BCP linear switch with the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, the noticeable distinction lies in the BCP's vibrant auditory feedback. The BCP offers a poppy and clacky sound that can be characterized as sharp, bright, and percussive when pressed, which is likely to provide an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch lacks a defined sound description in the available information, suggesting a potentially quieter or more muted sound profile, though sound can vary significantly based on the specific keyboard and keycap choices made by users.

In terms of feel, the BCP clearly excels with a richly layered tactile experience. It showcases a bouncy feedback, feeling elastic and responsive with a lively rebound upon activation, combined with a creamy smoothness that can be likened to gliding over silk. This unique combination results in an enjoyable and fluid typing experience overall. Unfortunately, there is insufficient information regarding the feel of the MX Orange switch to make a direct comparison, leaving its tactile characteristics unknown.

In summary, while the Kailh BCP linear switch stands out with its engaging clacky sound and richly textured feel—combining bounciness with a creamy smoothness—the specific qualities of the Cherry MX Orange remain elusive in the provided details. If you seek a lively auditory experience and a luxurious typing sensation, the BCP would be an excellent choice; however, the MX Orange may offer an alternative that merits exploration, though its qualities in sound and feel are not defined here.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force and are looking for a lively and dynamic experience, the BCP might be the right choice for you. Its unique bouncy feel, combined with a creamy, smooth texture and a satisfying clacky sound, makes it well-suited for both gaming and typing, especially if you like an engaging auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional linear switch, particularly one with historical significance and enhanced performance features, the Cherry MX Orange could be your go-to. While its bottoming out force isn't definitively stated, its reissued design and reputation for reliability may appeal to those looking for a well-established option. Ultimately, consider what tactile and auditory sensations motivate you: if you thrive on sound and a lively feedback, lean towards the BCP; if you appreciate a proven and stable foundation, opt for the MX Orange.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more