Kailh BCP vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can profoundly affect your typing experience, and two popular options—Kailh BCP and Bsun Olive—exemplify the diversity available to enthusiasts. The Kailh BCP, a linear switch, is celebrated for its creamy and bouncy feel that minimizes frustration with disassembly, offering users a hassle-free experience. Its signature poppy and clacky sound profile makes it an appealing choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switches shine as tactile options, featuring all-POM housings that produce a deep, resonant sound. These medium-weight switches provide pronounced tactile feedback through a unique design and long pole stem, resulting in a crisp bottom-out that many find satisfying. While the Kailh BCP caters to those seeking a smooth and lively typing journey, the Bsun Olive entices users who prefer a pronounced tactile experience with a sharp auditory response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh BCP and the Bsun Olive switches showcase distinct housing materials, each contributing to unique acoustic properties and tactile experiences. The BCP employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is characterized as a classic switch material. This nylon construction is particularly effective in absorbing sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a muted auditory experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a more subdued typing sound. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switches utilize POM for both the top and bottom housings. POM, known for its durability and rigidity, produces a different sound profile described as pleasing and unique, also leaning towards the deeper and more muted spectrum. Thus, while both switches aim for a similar auditory outcome, they achieve it through different materials, each with its own subtleties.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, the differences further illuminate their distinct sound qualities. The BCP's nylon bottom housing continues the theme of softness and sound absorption, reinforcing the switch's deeper and more rounded sound when bottomed out. The similarity in its sound profile allows for an enjoyable typing experience that is consistent with the overall design intent. On the other hand, the Olive's POM bottom housing brings its own character to the bottom-out sound and feel, which is also described as deeper yet possessing its unique pleasing nuances. Both switches exhibit a dedication to creating a satisfying auditory experience but do so through the contrasting properties of nylon and POM.
Ultimately, despite the differences in materials, both the Kailh BCP and Bsun Olive can yield similar auditory results due to the complementary nature of their designs. Each switch maintains a balanced sound profile—deeper and more muted, ideal for users seeking a refined typing experience. The impact of the housing materials lies not only in how they influence sound but also in how the user perceives the overall tactile response of the switches. Those who appreciate a cohesive sound and feel will find satisfaction in both models, as the intended design objectives echo through the distinct materials employed. By understanding the unique characteristics of nylon and POM, users can select the switch that resonates best with their personal typing preferences while still enjoying a comparable auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch with an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams to the Bsun Olive tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, it is evident that the BCP switch requires a slightly heavier touch to actuate. This means users who prefer a lighter feel will likely favor the Olive switch due to its lower actuation force. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with only a 1.5-gram difference, suggesting they will provide a comparable typing experience when fully pressed down. The Bsun Olive’s lighter actuation force makes it more suitable for users looking for a responsive feel during extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Kailh BCP may appeal to those who prefer the tactile feedback of a heavier switch. Overall, the Olive is the lighter option, while the BCP offers a more substantial push feel for those who desire it.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, we find that the BCP has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Olive has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Bsun Olive tactile switch the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster actuation times. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP, with its longer travel distance, may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, while both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the BCP's 3.5 mm provides a bit more depth than the Olive's 3.4 mm.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh BCP switches produce a lively and expressive acoustic profile characterized by a playful pop and clack with each keystroke. This distinctive sound is often celebrated among enthusiasts for its engaging auditory feedback, making typing feel more dynamic. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switches are recognized for their deep and resonant sound, attributed to their all-POM housings. When activated, these switches deliver a pronounced auditory experience that emphasizes a rich tonal quality. While both switches offer appealing sound profiles, the BCP leans towards a sharper and more playful tone, while the Olive provides a smoother, deeper resonance.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Kailh BCP is notable for its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy characteristics, creating a unique typing experience that feels both satisfying and responsive. This switch invites a playful interaction, encouraging a more relaxed yet engaging typing rhythm. In contrast, the Bsun Olive offers a more pronounced tactile experience; it features medium weight and is described as having a sharp tactile bump that delivers high feedback intensity. The tactile feedback is accentuated with a snappy and invigorating feel, making each keystroke distinctly rewarding. The Olive’s design allows for crisp actuation and a tangible response that many users find adds to their overall typing immersion.
In summary, both the Kailh BCP and Bsun Olive switches provide unique experiences that cater to different preferences in typing style. The BCP excels in delivering a lively sound and an elastic feel that enhances playfulness, while the Olive focuses on a deeper auditory experience with a pronounced tactile response that is sharp and invigorating. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you desire a more dynamic, clacky sound with a bouncy feel or a subdued yet resonant sound paired with robust tactile feedback. Each switch can satisfy distinct user experiences in sound, feel, and overall typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and usage scenarios. If you gravitate towards a typing experience that feels creamy, elastic, and bouncy, with a distinct poppy and clacky sound, the Kailh BCP would likely satisfy your needs, especially for activities like gaming or casual typing where smooth actuation is key. This switch's medium-heavy actuation force offers a balanced feel, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a light workout for their fingers without feeling overwhelmed. On the other hand, if you desire a pronounced tactile response with a deeper, more resonant sound that enhances auditory feedback, the Bsun Olive switch is ideal, especially for typing tasks that benefit from that extra layer of tactile engagement. Its pronounced tactile bump and snappy actuation will provide a satisfying experience for those who appreciate a tactile indicator during typing or coding. Ultimately, your decision should align with your priorities: go for the BCP if you value smoothness and a softer feel, and choose the Olive if you seek a sharp, invigorating feedback that keeps you engaged throughout your keystrokes.
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