Kailh BCP vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two intriguing options to consider are the Kailh BCP and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). The Kailh BCP, a linear switch, reimagines the classic Black Cherry Pie design with custom molding that enhances its signature poppy and clacky sound profile. Its creamy, elastic, and bouncy feel provides a unique typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a lively and energetic keyboard. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) stands out with its hall effect technology, delivering a smooth, balanced typing experience characterized by a low-pitched thock that enthusiasts adore. The silky feel of the keystroke, combined with a dustproof design that minimizes wobble, positions the Sticky Rice as a refined option for users who value consistency and understated elegance. Both switches offer distinct advantages—whether you favor the lively bounce of the BCP or the polished smoothness of the Sticky Rice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a key distinction lies in the type of plastic used for the top housing. The BCP features a nylon top housing, which is known for its contributions to a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. This is largely due to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound waves effectively. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) employs a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it an excellent choice for achieving a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. Therefore, when using these switches, the overall sound experience will differ based on the materials of the top housing.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which provides a consistent sound profile across both models. The nylon bottom housing in the BCP and the Sticky Rice (V2) contributes to a deeper and rounder sound. This is important since the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out feel and sound when keys are pressed down. As such, regardless of the differing materials of the top housing, users can expect that both switches will deliver a similar auditory experience upon key actuation due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials between the Kailh BCP and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) illustrate how distinct characteristics can emerge even when key elements are shared. While the BCP's nylon top provides a more muted, rounded sound, the Sticky Rice's polycarbonate top offers a sharper clarity. Yet, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches ensures that users will still experience a common ground in terms of sound damping and richness during key presses. This pairing of distinct top and consistent bottom materials allows for a unique auditory signature in each switch while maintaining an overall cohesive experience for typists.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, notable differences emerge. The Kailh BCP requires a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of just 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This distinction makes the Sticky Rice (V2) a better choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming marathons, while the Kailh BCP may appeal to users who enjoy the substantial feel of a heavier switch. Overall, the BCP is the heavier option, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) stands out for its lighter actuation, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which means they provide the same feel when pressed down. With both switches identical in travel distance, users can expect similar keypress experiences in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This uniformity allows for a cohesive typing experience whether one is using the Kailh BCP or the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), making either option suitable for those seeking a consistent feel in their keyboard performance.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), distinct differences emerge. The BCP switch produces a signature poppy and clacky sound, characterized by its crisp, bright, and percussive nature. This lively acoustic presence can be quite engaging for those who appreciate an energetic typing experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more subdued sound signature with a low-pitched thock, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This acoustics choice caters to those seeking a quieter and more refined auditory experience. Both sound profiles can be influenced by various external factors, such as the keyboard casing and keycap materials, but within their respective designs, they deliver distinctly different auditory sensations.
In terms of feel, the BCP switch delights with its creamy, bouncy character. The tactile sensation it offers is spring-like, providing lively feedback that can energize the typing experience. Many users enjoy the glide of keys, which seems to melt under their fingertips, creating an effortless typing flow. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) is polished and silky, ensuring an exceptionally smooth keystroke that minimizes resistance. With its mild nature, it offers a safe and approachable typing experience that appeals to users looking for a refined sensation without overwhelming characteristics. Although both switches focus on smoothness, the BCP’s more elastic bounce contrasts sharply with the Sticky Rice's understated fluidity.
Considering both the sound and feel of the Kailh BCP and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), each switch caters to different preferences and experiences. The BCP is ideal for users who enjoy an audible and lively feedback mechanism, while the Sticky Rice (V2) is perfect for those who favor a polished, subdued typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences surrounding sound dynamics and tactile sensations, making either switch a worthy contender in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you lean towards a more tactile experience that features a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the BCP might be your ideal pick. The delightful bouncy and creamy feel, paired with its signature clacky sound, makes it well-suited for those who enjoy a more dynamic and engaging typing experience, especially if you appreciate feedback with a lively sound profile. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Sticky Rice (V2) caters to a more subdued and refined experience. Known for its smooth, silky feel and low-pitched thock sound, this switch excels at providing a balance that might appeal to those who prioritize a quieter environment or a gentler typing sensation. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your priorities—be it sound, feel, or typing force—and your choice will enhance your keyboard experience significantly.
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