Kailh BCP vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh BCP and the Outemu Dustproof Brown offer two distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Kailh BCP, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes, which eliminate the friction of traditional tactile feedback, resulting in a creamy and bouncy feel that many gamers and typists appreciate. Its signature poppy and clacky sound profile adds an extra dimension of enjoyment for those who value auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, as a tactile switch, delivers a satisfying bump at the actuation point, providing a more pronounced feedback that’s ideal for typists who prefer to feel each key press without the loud noise that often accompanies linear switches. Both options cater to unique typing styles: the Kailh BCP for those seeking a sleek and slippery experience, and the Outemu Dustproof Brown for those who appreciate tactile cues. 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
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
Polycarbonate
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 switches utilize nylon for their top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a more muted and mellow auditory experience. This characteristic can create a sense of cushioning when keys are pressed, as much of the impact is absorbed rather than reverberating outward. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate emphasizes clarity and resonance, giving the typist a distinct auditory feedback that might be more vibrant and pronounced compared to the more subdued sounds produced by the Kailh BCP.
On the bottom housing front, both the Kailh BCP and Outemu Dustproof Brown use nylon, which means they share similarities in terms of sound quality from the base of the switch. As such, both switches will elicit a deeper and rounder sound profile due to the nylon's ability to absorb sound. The impact of this shared nylon bottom housing means that while the top housings differ greatly, the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the keys will resonate in a similar manner across both switches. The deeper tones generated from the nylon ensure that users can expect a familiar auditory feedback when the keys are fully engaged, regardless of the top housing differences.
The distinction between the top and bottom housings in these switches plays a significant role in their overall sound dynamics. With the Kailh BCP's nylon top housing absorbing more sound, the experience is notably rounded and softer during key release. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a clear, bright sound profile as keys are released. Thus, choosing between these two switches would ultimately depend on personal preference regarding sound characteristics. However, users can anticipate a more consistent feel in terms of sound quality stemming from the nylon bottom housing of both switches, providing a unifying yet distinct typing experience governed by their respective top housing materials.
Weight
The Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 52 grams, compared to the lighter 45 grams of the Dustproof Brown. This difference means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter feel will likely gravitate towards the Outemu Dustproof Brown, as it requires less force to register a keystroke, potentially allowing for extended periods of use without fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the BCP switch bottoms out at 63.5 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Dustproof Brown's bottom out force of 65 grams. This indicates that while the BCP switch allows for a lighter keystroke activation, it ultimately requires a bit more effort to fully press down compared to the Dustproof Brown. Overall, if a user values a more pronounced typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Kailh BCP may be preferred, while those seeking a lighter touch would do well with the Outemu Dustproof Brown.
Travel distance
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, we find that the BCP switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dustproof Brown features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Dustproof Brown, with its 4 mm travel distance, offers a more pronounced keypress experience that many users might find comfortable, particularly those who prefer a deeper feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP's shorter travel distance might appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, resulting in a more immediate and responsive feel. Therefore, if you favor a softer feedback and quicker actuation, the Kailh BCP is the optimal choice, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Brown may better suit those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience.
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 Dustproof Brown 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 a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, which enhances the auditory feedback during typing sessions, creating an engaging experience for users who appreciate pronounced acoustics. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch remains unspecified, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, it is important to note that the overall sound experience can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and choice of keycaps, so users could achieve a similar auditory environment regardless of the switch type.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh BCP switches offer a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation that makes for a dynamic typing experience. This unique tactile feedback is often preferred by users who enjoy a responsive switch that provides a sense of liveliness. The feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is not detailed, thus leaving this aspect unknown. However, without further information on the tactile characteristics of the Dustproof Brown switch, it is not possible to ascertain how it might compare to the BCP.
In conclusion, while the Kailh BCP linear switch stands out with its engaging sound and dynamic feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch lacks specific information on its sound and tactile qualities. Users looking for an enjoyable auditory and typing experience may gravitate toward the BCP for its distinctive features, while those uncertain about the Dustproof Brown's characteristics should consider that sound and feel can be influenced by other factors, potentially allowing for a satisfactory typing experience with either switch, provided the right setup is chosen.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it's crucial to consider your typing preferences and the type of tasks you'll be performing. If you enjoy a smooth, bouncy typing experience with a poppy and clacky sound profile, the Kailh BCP might be your ideal choice. This switch shines in environments where a lively feel and responsive feedback are prioritized, making it suitable for gaming or for those who type vigorously. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional tactile experience with a slightly heavier actuation force, the Outemu Dustproof Brown can offer the satisfaction of tactile feedback without being overly noisy. The Dustproof Brown is particularly useful in quieter office settings or for tasks requiring a substantial amount of written input where you want to feel the actuation point without distraction. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preference for sound, feel, and the environment in which you will be using your mechanical keyboard.
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