Kailh BCP vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Kailh BCP and the HMX SU can significantly impact your typing experience. The Kailh BCP, a reimagining of the classic Black Cherry Pie switch, promises a unique tactile experience with its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy feel. Users may appreciate its distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, which enhances feedback during typing and gaming sessions alike. On the other hand, the HMX SU switches feature a durable full PA12 housing combined with a T5 stem, delivering a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that many users find satisfying and less intrusive. Both switches are linear, offering smooth keystrokes with no tactile bump, which makes them ideal for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh BCP and HMX SU switches share a consistent material choice for their housing, with both featuring nylon for both the top and bottom components. This shared use of nylon significantly influences the auditory and tactile experiences associated with these switches. The inherent properties of nylon provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relative softness compared to other plastics. As a result, both switches exhibit a sound dampening quality that results in a rounder and less sharp sound when keys are pressed or released. Because both the BCP and HMX SU utilize nylon in the same way, users can expect a similar sound signature when typing, contributing to a consonant typing experience across both models.
While the Kailh BCP and HMX SU switches share identical housing materials, the interaction between these components can still yield different user experiences due to their overall design and spring configurations. Although they both feature nylon housings, factors such as stem design or actuation mechanisms can create variations in feel and performance. However, the consistent use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings means that the fundamental acoustic qualities are preserved, leading to similar sound characteristics despite potential differences in key feel or resistance. This allows each switch to maintain its own identity while still delivering a comparable auditory response, highlighting how material choice plays a critical role in the overarching experience users have with mechanical switches.
Ultimately, both the Kailh BCP and HMX SU switches demonstrate how nylon can be effectively employed to create satisfying tactile and auditory feedback. Even though the physical characteristics of stem and actuation may differ, the nylon housings mean that users will enjoy an overall sound experience that is in harmony across both products. The combination of softer plastics absorbing sound better creates a solid foundation for the sound profile, allowing for an engaging typing experience regardless of which switch you choose. The prominent and rich sound signature provided by the nylon materials ensures that both switches deliver deep auditory pleasure to typists and gamers alike, affirming that both Kailh BCP and HMX SU switches can offer a satisfying performance with their nylon constructions.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The BCP features an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX SU is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that typists and gamers seeking a gentler touch and reduced fatigue during extended use would likely prefer the SU switch. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial push feel may gravitate towards the heavier BCP switch. The differences in both actuation and bottom out forces highlight the varying user preferences for typing experience; the BCP requires more force to activate and bottom out compared to the lighter and softer HMX SU.
Travel distance
The Kailh BCP linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the BCP allows for a marginally shorter key press compared to the SU, making it potentially more responsive for gamers who favor quicker actuation. However, the small difference in travel distance may not be significant enough to greatly affect keystroke feel for most users. Those who appreciate a deeper, more robust keypress might prefer the HMX SU due to its longer travel distance, which can provide a fuller tactile experience. In summary, the BCP is the shorter option, while the SU is the longer one, highlighting a subtle but notable distinction in their designs.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh BCP linear switch delivers a distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, creating an engaging auditory experience that adds an element of excitement to typing. This lively character is especially pronounced during fast typing and provides a compelling feedback loop that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch is characterized by a subtle, relatively deep sound profile. This makes for a more muted auditory presence that is less intrusive, ideal for those who prefer a quieter environment, such as an office setting. It’s important to consider that the perceived sound of both switches can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard build and keycaps, which may further shape how their acoustic qualities manifest in practice.
When it comes to feel, the BCP linear switch stands out with its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation that offers a uniquely pleasurable typing experience. This combination results in a springy feedback that can be quite satisfying, particularly for fast typists. The signature feel is complemented by the sound it produces, making it a preferred choice for those seeking both tactile response and auditory feedback. Conversely, the HMX SU linear switch is built with a different philosophy, featuring a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem that might lead to a more stable and firm sensation while typing. While the specific tactile feedback of the SU isn’t detailed, the overall construction suggests a focus on durability and a consistent typing experience, which can be appreciated by users looking for reliability in their switches.
In conclusion, while the Kailh BCP and HMX SU linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, both can offer satisfying typing experiences suited to varied user tastes. The BCP's poppy sound and bouncy feel are perfect for those who enjoy an expressive typing atmosphere, while the SU provides a deeper sound and potentially more stable feel for users who favor quieter and more consistent feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences and typing style, as both switches can lead to enjoyable and engaging keyboard experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh BCP and the HMX SU linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding feel and sound, as well as the type of typing experience you desire. If you favor a medium-heavy actuation force and enjoy a lively typing experience marked by a creamy, viscous, elastic sensation along with a poppy, clacky sound profile, the Kailh BCP would be an excellent choice for you. This switch caters to those who appreciate a more tactile feedback while typing, making it ideal for users who indulge in both gaming and typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the HMX SU is well-suited for those who favor a softer and more subdued typing experience. With its relatively deep sound profile, the SU provides a more understated acoustical signature, making it an excellent option for those who want to maintain a quieter environment while still enjoying the smoothness of linear switches. Ultimately, your decision should reflect not only what feels comfortable in your hands but also the acoustic ambiance you prefer while typing or gaming.
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