Kailh BCP vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh BCP and the Outemu Silent Green stand out as popular options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Kailh BCP is celebrated for its smooth and responsive feel, reminiscent of the iconic Black Cherry Pies, and boasts a unique creamy, viscous texture that provides a bouncy typing experience along with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. This makes it an appealing choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback and a lively auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green, although less renowned, offers a quieter linear option, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise reduction is a priority. Its smooth keystrokes ensure a pleasant typing experience without the distracting sounds typically associated with mechanical switches. Both switches cater to different preferences, whether you value a vibrant auditory response or a stealthy, uninterrupted typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh BCP and Outemu Silent Green switches showcase a distinct contrast, significantly impacting their sound profiles and overall user experience. The Kailh BCP utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound when typing. Nylon is recognized for its softer characteristics, which allow it to absorb sound waves effectively, resulting in a sound signature that is both duller and rounder. This feature is particularly appealing to users seeking a more muted and subdued auditory feedback. In stark contrast, the Outemu Silent Green switches have polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, leading to a sharper, crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer material, does not absorb vibrations to the same degree as nylon, thereby enhancing both clarity and resonance, which is especially beneficial for users who prefer a more pronounced acoustic experience when typing.
When examining the housing materials individually, the top and bottom sections of each switch affect sound production in unique ways. In the Kailh BCP, the nylon top housing nurtures a warmer sound, making it ideal for users who find a thick and rich auditory experience desirable. Conversely, the polycarbonate top of the Silent Green amplifies the higher-pitched tones, resulting in a more vibrant and clear sound when keys are released. Meanwhile, both switches exhibit complementary characteristics within their respective bottom housings. The nylon bottom of the BCP reinforces the deeper sound quality, while the polycarbonate bottom in the Silent Green adds a sharper edge to each key's actuation and bottom-out sounds. This division of impact between the top and bottom housing highlights how each material contributes to the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, while the Kailh BCP and Outemu Silent Green switches utilize different materials for their housings, both can produce satisfying sound profiles, albeit in divergent manners. The overlap in sound characteristics may lead to certain users achieving similar auditory results depending on their preferences; for instance, someone who enjoys the muted sounds of the nylon BCP may find satisfaction in the more resonant outputs of the Silent Green. The housing materials do play a critical role, not only in shaping sound and feel but also in establishing the tactile identity of each switch. By understanding the unique contributions of nylon and polycarbonate, users can make informed decisions about which switch best aligns with their typing habits, whether they prioritize a softer, fuller experience or a sharper, more vibrant sound.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Kailh BCP has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Green features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. This means that the Silent Green is preferable for users seeking a lighter touch, which can facilitate longer typing sessions and reduce fatigue. Conversely, the BCP switch is ideal for those who appreciate a firmer push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces. Overall, users will experience distinct tactile differences based on their preferences for lighter or heavier switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Kailh BCP features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Silent Green has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the BCP the shorter option, appealing to users who favor quicker response times, such as gamers. Conversely, the Outemu Silent Green, with its 4 mm distance, provides a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a deeper typing experience. Thus, while both switches can offer satisfactory performance, the choice ultimately depends on whether one prioritizes responsiveness or a more pronounced key travel sensation.
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 Silent Green 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
The Kailh BCP linear switch is characterized by a distinct signature poppy and clacky sound profile, giving it a lively auditory presence that appeals to many enthusiasts. This engaging sound can enhance the typing experience, making each keystroke feel more pronounced and satisfying. The Outemu Silent Green, on the other hand, does not have a defined sound profile available, suggesting that it may produce a more muted auditory response. However, it is important to remember that factors such as the keyboard's build quality and the type of keycaps used can significantly affect the overall sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the BCP excels with its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation, combining elements that create an inviting and enjoyable typing experience. This satisfying tactile response is appreciated by those who favor a dynamic feel as they type. Meanwhile, details concerning the feel of the Outemu Silent Green are not provided, leaving an unknown factor in how it may compare to the BCP in terms of sensory engagement during use.
In conclusion, while the Kailh BCP linear switch offers a well-rounded auditory and tactile engagement with its distinctive sound and elastic feel, the Outemu Silent Green's qualities remain less defined. Users looking for the lively response of the BCP may find it particularly rewarding, while the Silent Green may be better suited to those who prefer a quieter typing experience, though specifics are lacking. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and outcomes may vary based on personal taste and additional components.
Conclusion
To summarize, your choice between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch largely hinges on your specific typing preferences and environments. If you’re looking for an engaging typing experience characterized by a medium-heavy force and a poppy, clacky sound profile, the Kailh BCP will likely suit you better. It offers a unique creamy, viscous feel that’s both elastic and bouncy, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile feedback that excites their typing rhythm. Alternatively, if you require a quieter operation for more focused environments, such as an office or shared workspace, the Outemu Silent Green becomes an attractive option. With a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 60 grams, this switch caters well to those who prefer a smoother and more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize an expressive, auditory typing experience or a silent and smooth feel.
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