Kailh BCP vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often boil down to the typing experience and sound profile one desires. The Kailh BCP switch is a linear option that stands out for its reimagined design, inspired by the classic Black Cherry Pies. Known for a creamy, viscous feel, it delivers a remarkably bouncy and elastic typing experience with a delightful poppy and clacky sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize smooth keystrokes and acoustic feedback in their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch, being a tactile switch, offers a different tactile feedback experience that many typists favor for its pronounced bump at the actuation point, enhancing typing precision without the need for bottoming out. This switch option may appeal to gamers and typists who enjoy a notable tactile response without the linear smoothness. Ultimately, both switches cater to distinct typing styles and preferences, allowing users to tailor their experience, and, 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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 Yellow switches both utilize nylon as their housing material, which is notable for creating a distinct sound profile. This similarity in material means that users can expect a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing on either switch. The nylon's inherent properties, characterized by its softness, allow it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, both switches deliver a subdued and rounded sound, minimizing harsh high frequencies and generating a more pleasant acoustic environment during use. This sonic quality can contribute to a more enjoyable typing experience, especially for those who prefer a quieter workspace.
In terms of housing construction, both switches feature nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This uniformity in material usage further enhances the cohesive sound profile that typists will experience. Because both the BCP and Cream Yellow switches leverage the qualities of nylon prominently throughout their construction, the bottoming-out sound—produced by the bottom housing upon keystroke completion—and the sound emitted upon key release—controlled by the top housing—work in tandem to create a consistent auditory feedback loop. In this scenario, users might not notice significant differences between the two switches, since the nylon material contributes similarly to both the overall sound quality and tactile feedback.
However, while the Kailh BCP and Outemu Cream Yellow switches share a common material foundation in their housings, various factors like design nuances, actuation force, and spring dynamics can still influence their overall feel and performance. For instance, even though they utilize nylon, if the internal design elements or additional features of the switches differ, they may still yield distinct typing experiences despite their similar sound profiles. Ultimately, users seeking deeper and fuller acoustics can anticipate a comparable performance between the two switches, but should remain aware that subtle variations in design may manifest in tactile differences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, there are several notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Kailh BCP requires a higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the lighter 45 grams of the Cream Yellow, making it a better option for those who prefer a more substantial push while typing or gaming. Additionally, the bottom out force for the BCP is 63.5 grams, which again is heavier than the Cream Yellow's 60 grams. This difference in weight suggests that users who favor a more robust typing experience might gravitate towards the Kailh BCP, while those who appreciate a lighter touch may find the Outemu Cream Yellow more comfortable for extended use. Overall, the BCP is the heavier option, offering a firmer feel, whereas the Cream Yellow is the lighter alternative.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it becomes evident that they are different. The Kailh BCP features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the BCP offers a more substantial feel with its longer distance, which might be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press for a more tactile experience. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow could appeal to gamers or those looking for quicker response times, making it more suitable for rapid key presses. Thus, for users who favor responsive feedback and speed, the Outemu Cream Yellow would be the better choice, while those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke might opt for the Kailh BCP.
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 Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh BCP linear switch delivers a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, which adds an engaging auditory element to each keystroke. This sound characteristic sets it apart from many other linear switches, often providing a more lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch does not have a specified sound profile described, leaving an unknown quality that could mean it offers a less defined auditory feedback or might be quieter in comparison. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound perception can still vary depending on factors such as the keyboard construction and the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Kailh BCP switch is celebrated for its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy texture, which contributes to a highly enjoyable typing experience. This tactile sensation engages typists in a way that enhances comfort during long writing sessions. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Cream Yellow switch remains unspecified, which might suggest a more traditional linear feel or an undistinguished quality that does not stand out in comparison to the BCP. Without this detail, one cannot make an exact comparison, but if the Outemu is a linear switch, it may lack the distinctive textured experiences that the BCP provides.
In summary, the Kailh BCP linear switch offers a remarkable combination of auditory and tactile qualities, making it a standout choice for those who value a poppy sound and a bouncy feel. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow lacks a defined sound and feel profile, which may appeal to users looking for a more neutral experience. Therefore, if sound and tactile feedback are high priorities in your mechanical keyboard journey, the BCP clearly shines; conversely, the performance of the Cream Yellow remains uncertain without further details.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force and appreciate a smooth, bouncy feel, with a poppy and clacky sound profile, the Kailh BCP is likely your best choice. This switch is particularly suited for those who engage in heavy typing or gaming sessions, where a bit of extra resistance can enhance your precision and tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a more subdued sound and a classic tactile feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow would be a better fit. With its lower actuation force and unique characteristics, the Cream Yellow caters to those who desire a smooth and comfortable typing experience without the additional heft that the BCP offers. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct experiences, so consider what aspects are most important to you, whether that be sound, feel, or actuation force, to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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