Kailh BCP vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two notable linear options to consider are the Kailh BCP and the Outemu Cream Pink. The Kailh BCP stands out for its unique reimagining of the classic Black Cherry Pie design, offering a creamy, viscous, and elastic feel that enhances tactile satisfaction during typing. Users often appreciate the BCP's poppy and clacky sound profile, which adds a distinctive auditory element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink, though less detailed in its acclaim, is recognized for its smooth linear action, making it a solid choice for gamers and typists seeking a quieter, effortless keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the BCP appealing to those who enjoy dynamic feedback and sound, while the Cream Pink focuses on a more subdued yet smooth performance. 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
50g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh BCP and the Outemu Cream Pink both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which leads to a shared sound profile characteristic of switches made with this material. As described, nylon's softness enables it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. This quality allows both switches to produce a rounder and less sharp sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Since both switches share the same material composition, users can expect similar acoustic results when typing, reinforcing the notion that housing material plays a crucial role in a switch's auditory feedback.
Despite the shared use of nylon in both switches, the physical design elements and internal mechanisms can create slight variations in feel and responsiveness. While the nylon absorbs sound uniformly, the nuances in the structure of each switch can lead to differences in how the user perceives the bottom-out feel or the rebound characteristics when releasing a key. Although the acoustic signature remains consistent across both BCP and Cream Pink switches, differences in the engineering of the switch components may introduce individual tactile experiences that set them apart for different typing styles or preferences.
Ultimately, the similarities in housing materials between the Kailh BCP and Outemu Cream Pink suggest that users will experience a comparable auditory depth during typing sessions. This shared nylon construction contributes to producing a satisfying sound profile that many enthusiasts appreciate when using mechanical switches. While factors such as switch design and actuation force can lead to distinct typing experiences, the fundamental sound properties derived from the nylon composition mean that both switches will perform similarly in terms of overall acoustics, making either a viable option for those seeking a softer, fuller sound while typing.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, both exhibit medium-heavy resistance, but their actuation and bottom out forces differ slightly. The BCP switch requires an actuation force of 52 grams, while the Cream Pink necessitates a slightly lighter 50 grams. This makes the Cream Pink a marginally lighter option for users who prefer less resistance during typing or gaming sessions, which can contribute to more extended use without fatigue. However, when it comes to bottom out forces, the BCP has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, in contrast to the Cream Pink's 65 grams. This indicates that while the Cream Pink provides a lighter actuation, it requires a bit more force to bottom out, resulting in a heavier overall feel at that endpoint. Ultimately, those who appreciate a lighter touch may gravitate toward the Outemu Cream Pink for its lower actuation force, while those who enjoy a more substantial push should consider the Kailh BCP for its slightly higher actuation force and overall tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Kailh BCP features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Pink has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the BCP offers a shorter actuation distance, which may appeal to gamers who prefer quicker response times for a more rapid gameplay experience. In contrast, the Cream Pink's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper keypress, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the Kailh BCP would be the better choice, while those who appreciate a fuller depth might opt for the Outemu Cream Pink.
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 Outemu Cream Pink comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh BCP linear switch is characterized by its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, adding an engaging auditory element to the typing experience. This lively sound can enhance the enjoyment of using the keyboard, making it feel more responsive and dynamic. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch does not have any specific sound characteristics provided. However, it's worth noting that the sound produced by a switch can vary based on additional factors such as the keyboard itself and the type of keycaps used, meaning that the auditory experience may still be pleasant even if particular qualities of the Cream Pink are unknown.
When it comes to feel, the BCP switch is renowned for its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation, which can provide a delightful tactile experience during typing. This unique texture lends itself to a comfortable and responsive feedback that can be very satisfying for users. Unfortunately, there isn't specific information available regarding the tactile feel of the Cream Pink switch, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the feel of a switch can also be influenced by a user's personal preferences and the overall keyboard setup.
In conclusion, the Kailh BCP switch offers a distinct auditory experience alongside an enjoyable, bouncy feel, making it a strong choice for those seeking engagement in their typing. The Outemu Cream Pink, while lacking specific sound and feel descriptions, may still provide a satisfying experience depending on personal preferences and the keyboard configuration. If you are looking for a keyboard experience that is lively and responsive, the BCP aligns well with those goals, while the Cream Pink may offer a more neutral and potentially adaptable option, depending on its compatibility with your specific setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between Kailh BCP linear switches and Outemu Cream Pink linear switches, your choice largely depends on the specific typing experience you desire. If you prefer a switch that offers a distinctly bouncy and elastic feel, combined with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, then the Kailh BCP is the way to go. This makes it particularly appealing for gamers or typists who enjoy a more tactile feedback without the actual tactile bump, allowing for a lively and engaging experience. On the other hand, if you’re leaning towards a heavier bottom-out force with a more muted sound profile, then the Outemu Cream Pink can be a solid choice. While it lacks the distinctive characteristics of the BCP, it still provides a smooth experience that may be more suited for users looking for a more subdued and consistent feel across different key presses. Ultimately, your preferences for sound and tactile feedback should guide your decision in selecting between these two appealing linear switches.