Kailh BCP vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can dramatically influence both typing comfort and sound profile. The Kailh BCP switch, reimagined from the beloved Black Cherry Pie, offers a unique tactile experience characterized by a creamy, viscous elasticity and a signature poppy, clacky sound. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more spirited typing experience and appreciate the nostalgia of classic switches without the hassle of disassembly. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch presents a modern twist with its innovative semi-silent design. It features a whisper-quiet topping out while still producing a satisfying clacky bottom-out sound, providing a silky smooth typing feel that remains comfortably subdued without sacrificing feedback. While the BCP caters to those who crave an engaging auditory and tactile experience, the Semi-Silent Linear appeals to users looking for a more muted, yet responsive sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh BCP and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches, a significant contrast arises between their top housings. The Kailh BCP employs a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer texture. This material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon absorbs sound more effectively. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear features a polycarbonate top housing, associated with a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer structure. The difference in these materials suggests that users will experience distinct auditory sensations when typing on the two switches. While the BCP offers a more subdued and rounded acoustic character, the Semi-Silent Linear delivers clarity and resonance that can be particularly highlighted when using RGB lighting due to the translucence of the polycarbonate.
On the other hand, the bottom housing for both switches is made of nylon, offering uniformity in sound perception at the base of the key press. This shared material ensures that regardless of the differences in the top housings, the bottom-out sound and feel for both switches will be more similar. The nylon bottom housing continues to foster that deeper, fuller sound profile upon actuation, leading to a cohesive experience when the keys are fully depressed. This characteristic allows both switches to resonate a comparative acoustic quality at the tactile endpoint of the stroke.
While the varied top housing materials suggest that the Kailh BCP and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear will create distinctive typing experiences, their similar nylon bottom housings will bridge the divide in sound characteristics. The combined effect of a nylon bottom and the contrasting top materials means that the typing experience could be defined by the interplay of these qualities. Users might note that while they experience different auditory sensations during the key press and release, the consistent bottom housing contributes to an overall solid and reliable feel across both switches, enhancing their usability in different typing contexts.
Weight
The Kailh BCP linear switch features an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has no specified actuation force but boasts a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as medium. The BCP's actuation force indicates that it requires a thoughtful push to register a keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the lack of a defined actuation force for the Semi-Silent Linear switch suggests that its responsiveness may feel different but is still designed to strike a balance between comfort and performance. Overall, the Kailh BCP, with its heavier actuation force, may be more suitable for users who prefer tactile feedback, while the Jwick, with a slightly lighter bottom out force, might offer a softer experience, but ultimately, it's challenging to make a thorough comparison without the actuation force for the Semi-Silent Linear switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, it’s clear that the BCP offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Kailh BCP is the shorter of the two options, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter travel distances can enhance speed and efficiency during gameplay. On the other hand, the Jwick switch, with its longer distance, may provide a more gradual experience for users who prefer a deeper feel when pressing keys. Therefore, the choice between these two switches ultimately hinges on personal preference: those who favor snappier, more responsive keystrokes might lean towards the Kailh BCP, whereas those who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their typing experience might opt for the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 exhibits a distinctly poppy and clacky profile, which makes it stand out with a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. This experience can be quite engaging, especially for those who enjoy a lively soundscape. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a more subdued characteristic with its whisper-quiet topping-out sound, yet it still features a noticeable clacky bottom-out sound. This duality can make it appealing for users who seek a quieter experience while still enjoying auditory feedback upon key actuation. Overall, the BCP offers a more vibrant sound experience, while the Semi-Silent Linear balances quietness with enough sound to satisfy those who enjoy a clacky typing experience.
In terms of feel, the BCP delivers a creamy, elastic, and bouncy sensation that creates an engaging and responsive typing experience, tailored for individuals who appreciate a lively key press. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a range of tactile sensations, including a mild typing experience that appeals to a broader audience, making it approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists. The snappiness of the Semi-Silent, enhanced by its potentially longer or dual-staged springs, makes it responsive and proactive, while the buttery feel ensures smooth key presses without any feeling of drag. Though the BCP focuses on a more unique tactile experience, both switches provide a satisfying overall sensation that should cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
In conclusion, the Kailh BCP and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The BCP is all about lively sounds and an engagingly bouncy feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear balances quietness with responsive and smooth key presses. Ultimately, choosing between these two will depend on one's preference for sound and feel—whether you gravitate towards a more vibrant auditory experience or a subtler, yet satisfying typing engagement. Each switch has its unique strengths, ensuring that whatever choice you make, you’ll enjoy a rewarding mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, consider your typing environment and personal preferences. If you enjoy a more tactile and dynamic typing experience characterized by a slightly heavier resistance and a poppy sound profile, the Kailh BCP switch, with its bouncy feel and signature clacky sound, is likely the best fit for you. It is particularly suited for enthusiasts who appreciate a lively auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, subtler experience and anticipate using your keyboard in quieter settings—like an office or shared workspace—the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is an excellent choice. Its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and silky feel strike a balance between comfort and discreetness, making it versatile for various typing scenarios. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not just the physical characteristics of the switches, but also the ambiance of your workspace and your own typing style.
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