Kailh BCP vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh BCP and the Dareu Sky V4 present two compelling yet distinct options for enthusiasts of linear switches. The BCP, reimagined by Kailh, combines the nostalgic feel of the iconic Black Cherry Pies with custom-molded technology, providing a creamy, viscous, and bouncy typing experience accompanied by a signature poppy and clacky sound profile that many typists adore. It's ideal for those who appreciate a unique tactile feedback and the engaging auditory response during use. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out with its innovative use of POK material in its top housing, delivering a deeper sound signature that aligns perfectly with its smooth linear action. This switch is particularly appealing for individuals seeking a rich and satisfying typing experience without distracting clicks. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the BCP leaning towards a more playful and distinct auditory experience while the Sky V4 offers a smooth, thocky feel that many find satisfying and immersive. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh BCP and Dareu Sky V4 switches showcase a blend of traditional and innovative materials, each contributing distinct acoustic and tactile qualities to the overall performance of the switches. The Kailh BCP employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material celebrated for its softer composition that enables a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softness not only absorbs sound waves, resulting in a more subdued acoustic experience, but also provides a certain tactile comfort during typing. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 integrates POK material for its top housing, which boasts a combination of smoothness and high durability. With a lower friction coefficient and superior wear resistance, the POK top housing is engineered to enhance the switch's responsiveness and create a pronounced clacky sound, distinguishing its auditory experience from the BCP.
While both switches incorporate nylon in their respective bottom housings—yielding similar characteristics in sound absorption and tactile feedback—the divergence in materials used for the top housing creates distinct sound profiles. The nylon top of the BCP tends to produce a more rounded acoustics due to its inherent qualities, softening the impact when releasing keys. Conversely, the POK top housing of the Sky V4 generates sharper, more resonant sounds, allowing for a cleaner auditory feedback when fingers are lifted from the keys. These differences emphasize the importance of the top housing's material in shaping the sound experience, while the similarities in their nylon bottom housings align them closely in terms of dampening and overall feel.
Ultimately, the combination of switch housings in both the Kailh BCP and Dareu Sky V4 offers users an experience shaped by both shared and differing characteristics. The use of nylon in both bottom housings ensures that the fundamental typing experience—characterized by a softer bottoming-out feel and enriched sound profile—remains consistent across both options. However, the introduction of contrasting top housing materials introduces unique auditory qualities that cater to varying preferences for sound and feel. Users seeking a deeper, more muted experience might gravitate towards the Kailh BCP, while those looking for a crisper and more dynamic sound may prefer the Dareu Sky V4, highlighting how variations in housing materials can created tailored tactile experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Sky V4 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This distinction means that users who prefer a lighter touch may find the Sky V4 more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel might lean towards the heavier BCP switch. Overall, the Kailh BCP is heavier compared to the Dareu Sky V4, which may influence a user's choice depending on their preference for lighter or stronger actuation during use.
Travel distance
The Kailh BCP linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch exhibit slight differences in travel distance, which can influence user experience. The BCP features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sky V4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the BCP the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that may cater to gamers seeking faster key actuation. In contrast, the Sky V4's longer travel distance could appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press, providing a deeper sensation with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference: those who value quick response times may favor the Kailh BCP, while those who appreciate a little more depth in their typing experience might opt for the Dareu Sky V4.
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 Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 switch delivers a signature poppy and clacky profile, reminiscent of the classic soundscape associated with Cherry switches. This sound can be particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate audible feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 offers a deeper auditory experience characterized by a thocky sound, producing a satisfying, bass-heavy tone with each keystroke. The neutrality of the Sky V4 also caters to a broader audience, appealing to users who favor a moderate sound without overwhelming noise, while still offering a low-pitched resonance that enhances the overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct audio signatures that cater to different preferences, but the board and keycaps you choose will play a significant role in shaping the final sounds you experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh BCP excels in delivering a creamy, viscous, and elastic tactile experience. Its bouncy nature invites a smooth typing experience, with keys that rebound effectively under pressure, making each stroke feel lively and responsive. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 also showcases a bouncy characteristic, enhancing the typing experience with a spirited feedback sensation akin to spring-like resistance. While both switches prioritize an enjoyable tactile response, the BCP's unique blend of textures may resonate better with those who seek a noticeably fluid touch, whereas the Sky V4 focuses on providing consistent responsiveness.
Considering both switches, the Kailh BCP and Dareu Sky V4 each bring their unique elements to the table. The BCP’s clacky sound and creamy feel cater to those who enjoy a traditional, yet modern take on mechanical typing. Meanwhile, the Sky V4 offers a deeper sound profile and a lively bouncy feedback, appealing to those looking for a rich, satisfying experience without being overly loud. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel, but either way, both switches are designed to elevate your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Kailh BCP and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for feel and sound characteristics. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch that offers a satisfyingly poppy and clacky type of feedback, the Kailh BCP would be ideal for you. Its unique creamy and bouncy sensation makes it suitable for users who enjoy a more robust tactile response and a lively experience when typing. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a focus on a deeper, thocky sound profile, then the Dareu Sky V4 may be the better choice. With its medium-light actuation force, this switch provides a smooth and elastic feel, perfect for those who desire a quiet yet rich typing experience. So, consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision; whether you enjoy a heavier key press with dynamic feedback or a lighter touch with a satisfying audio signature, both switches offer distinct advantages to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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