Kailh BCP vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches plays a vital role in shaping your typing experience, and two popular linear options are the Kailh BCP and the KTT Pine. The Kailh BCP switches are celebrated for their unique design that captures the essence of the beloved Black Cherry Pies, offering a creamy, bouncy feel with a distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile. This makes them an excellent choice for those who enjoy a tactile sensation while typing or gaming, adding a layer of auditory feedback that can enhance the overall experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switches present a more understated yet equally appealing option, characterized by their medium-heavy actuation force and buttery smooth travel. These switches feature a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction, making them ideal for users who prioritize a seamless and effortless typing experience. While both switches have their unique charm, they cater to different preferences—whether you crave the acoustic feedback of the BCP or the smooth glide of the Pine. 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
58g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh BCP and the KTT Pine switches showcase contrasting housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles and tactile feedback. The BCP features a nylon housing for both the top and bottom, which is traditionally celebrated for creating a deeper and fuller sound. This is primarily due to nylon's relatively soft plastic composition, which absorbs sound waves rather than reflecting them. In contrast, the KTT Pine utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, known for its rigidity and clarity. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound signature that resonates clearly, making the typing experience crisper and more pronounced. Users can expect a progressive dichotomy in auditory experience depending on which switch they choose, with the BCP providing a muffled resonance and the Pine offering a bright, clean sound.
When evaluating the housing materials from a performance perspective, the unique properties of nylon and polycarbonate translate into different tactile experiences during typing. The BCP’s nylon housing tends to create a more cushioned bottom-out feel, amplifying the notion of softness and impacting the overall tactile feedback during key presses. Conversely, the KTT Pine's polycarbonate housing contributes to a firmer response, enhancing the sensation of keystroke precision. The variation in material stiffness and sound absorption qualities lead to distinct experiences when typing, making it essential for users to choose based on their personal preferences regarding sound and feel.
However, despite their differences, there are circumstances where the KTT Pine and the Kailh BCP may yield similar outcomes. For example, if both switches are configured to include features that mitigate their inherent sound profiles—such as dampeners or sound-dampening materials—users may notice somewhat comparable acoustic experiences. Moreover, if the switches are paired with respective keycap profiles that complement their sound qualities, one could achieve a harmonious typing experience, regardless of the differing housing materials. Ultimately, while the BCP and Pine switches are fundamentally different in composition, the potential for synergy through customization allows for a tailored experience reflecting an individual’s tastes.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP switch features a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Pine switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, catering to those who prefer a more effortless keypress, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. While both switches differ, the BCP's heavier actuation and bottom out forces result in a more pronounced tactile feedback, whereas the Pine's lighter forces provide a smoother, softer touch. This distinction means that while the BCP may be better for users seeking a robust feel, the Pine is better for those who favor a lighter touch for extended use.
Travel distance
The Kailh BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Pine linear switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference means that the KTT Pine switch offers a more pronounced depth when pressed, satisfying users who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience. Alternatively, the Kailh BCP's shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm may appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as the comparatively minimal distance allows for faster actuation. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness and a snappier feel, the Kailh BCP switch would be the better choice, while the KTT Pine switch caters to those who prefer a deeper press.
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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Kailh BCP and the KTT Pine linear switches, the BCP is characterized by a signature poppy and clacky tone that adds an engaging auditory element to the typing experience. This sound is reminiscent of a more lively feel, often making it a fun choice for those who enjoy feedback from their keyboard. On the other hand, the KTT Pine presents a deeper and richer acoustic presence, described as bassy and low-pitched. This gives the Pine a mellow and warm sound that contrasts with the more pronounced clack of the BCP, catering to those who prefer a quieter and more subdued auditory experience. Both switch sounds can inevitably be affected by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so users may find variations even within these descriptions.
In terms of feel, the Kailh BCP offers a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy typing sensation that is distinctly engaging. This feel promotes a responsive typing experience, making it appealing to users who enjoy a switch that adds a bit of bounce and liveliness to their key presses. In contrast, the KTT Pine delivers a buttery smooth experience that fosters seamless key travel. The polished, factory-lubed finish enhances this smoothness, minimizing friction and allowing for an effortless typing experience. While the BCP emphasizes a more dynamic and bouncy sensation, the Pine focuses on a fluid and consistent keystroke, appealing to typists who prefer a smoother, more leisurely typing style.
In conclusion, when considering both the Kailh BCP and KTT Pine linear switches, there are clear distinctions in sound and feel. The BCP stands out with its lively poppy and clacky sound along with a more elastic typing sensation, making it suitable for those who appreciate feedback during their typing. Conversely, the KTT Pine presents a bassy and low-pitched sound with an emphasis on smoothness and a buttery feel, ideal for users seeking a seamless and quiet typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preferences regarding sound dynamics and tactile sensations, allowing newcomers to find a switch that aligns with their individual typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a more tactile and responsive typing experience, with a heavier bottom-out force and a characteristically poppy and clacky sound profile, the Kailh BCP might be the better option for you. Its unique, elastic feel offers a refreshing typing sensation, which can be particularly suited for those who enjoy an engaging and dynamic sound while they type. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother, quieter experience with minimal resistance, the KTT Pine could be your ideal switch. With its factory-lubed buttery smoothness and lower pitch sound, the Pine creates an effortlessly fluid typing experience, perfect for long hours of use or quiet environments where you don't want the loudness of your typing to become a distraction. Consider what aspects are most important for your typing needs—whether it's sound, feel, or bottom-out force—and use these guidelines to help make your decision.
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