Kailh BCP vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh BCP and Everglide Sunset Yellow are two linear switches that offer unique experiences for different types of users. The BCP is celebrated for its innovative design that captures the essence of the iconic Black Cherry Pie switch, featuring a creamy and bouncy tactile feedback, paired with a distinctively poppy and clacky sound profile that adds a layer of auditory satisfaction to your typing. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow, with its charming Creamsicle hue, delivers a rich, deep sound reminiscent of mahjong tiles, creating an indulgent auditory experience that many users find delightful. Additionally, the medium weight of the Sunset Yellow makes it versatile, accommodating a wide range of typing preferences, while its unique Ly stem and factory lube ensure a smooth, frictionless feel. Both switches provide different advantages: the BCP excelling in a vibrant tactile sensation, while the Sunset Yellow caters to those seeking a refined and polished typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh BCP and the Everglide Sunset Yellow, we primarily see a distinction between the types of plastics used—nylon for the BCP and POM for the Sunset Yellow. The BCP’s nylon top and bottom housings are characterized by their capacity to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is described as duller and rounder. This is attributed to nylon’s softer nature, which plays a significant role in modulating the acoustic feedback of the switch. In contrast, the Everglide Sunset Yellow employs POM for both its top and bottom housings, offering a unique sound that is also deep but more muted. While both materials contribute to deeper sound profiles, the POM's specific acoustic qualities are distinct, creating a sound that some may find more pleasing and refined.
The differences extend beyond just the acoustics, influencing the tactile experience as well. The BCP's nylon housings invoke a classic switch feel that is known for providing a smooth typing experience, heavily informed by the material's softer characteristics. This ultimately enriches the tactile feedback during key presses, making the bottom-out feel more comfortable and less jarring. Meanwhile, the Everglide Sunset Yellow’s POM housing, although also designed to create a satisfying acoustic experience, offers a slightly different tactile sensation. The firmness of POM can lend itself to a crisper, more defined actuation that contrasts with the softer, more cushioned feel of nylon. Such variance ensures that while both switches deliver enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to different preferences regarding feel and sound.
Despite these differences in materials, users can achieve similar results in terms of the overall sound profile and tactile experience, depending on personal preferences and typing styles. For instance, each switch’s design prioritizes deeper sound characteristics while minimizing harshness, which can equally appeal to those who favor a more muted sound when typing. If a user prefers the rounder sound of nylon but is intrigued by the unique qualities of POM, they might find that both switches serve specific needs in different contexts. Ultimately, while the Kailh BCP and Everglide Sunset Yellow employ different materials for their housings, the intention behind their sound characteristics aligns closely, enabling users to experience satisfaction in similar auditory traits, albeit through different tactile pathways.
Weight
The Kailh BCP linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly affect user experience. 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 Sunset Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This means that for those who favor a lighter key feel, the Sunset Yellow would be the better option, especially for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may gravitate toward the BCP switch due to its heavier force requirements. Overall, the Kailh BCP is the heavier option, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow is the lighter one, leading to distinct preferences based on individual typing styles and usage needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there is a clear difference between the two. The Kailh BCP features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a more traditional option compared to the Sunset Yellow, which has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the BCP will provide a more pronounced tactile experience, which can be appealing to those who prefer a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the Sunset Yellow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. In essence, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for either a more robust, deeper press or a snappier, less arduous keystroke.
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 Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch has a signature poppy and clacky profile, making it engaging and lively with each keystroke. It stands out with a unique auditory signature that provides a satisfying feedback loop for typists and gamers alike. In contrast, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offers a deeper, bassy sound that is reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, creating a rich and indulgent auditory experience. It is characterized by a thocky quality that provides depth and resonance, making each press feel substantial. Although both switches present distinct sounds, the choice between a poppy click and a bassy thocky tone will ultimately depend on personal preference.
In terms of feel, the BCP excels with its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy typing experience, showcasing a delightful tactile response that enhances user engagement. This switch allows for lively typing, adding an element of fun to the experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow provides a silky, frictionless experience, thanks to its unique Ly stem and factory lubrication method. The combination of very short travel and a long-pole stem gives it a sharp and responsive feel, making it highly suitable for a wide range of users. While both switches aim to deliver an enjoyable typing experience, the BCP leans more towards a lively bounce, while the Sunset Yellow emphasizes smoothness and fluidity.
In conclusion, the Kailh BCP and Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The BCP's poppy sounds and bouncy feel resonate well with users who enjoy a lively, engaging typing experience, while the Sunset Yellow's bassy thock and smooth, frictionless typing appeal to those seeking a more polished and indulgent touch. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying results, but the choice will depend on whether one prioritizes sound dynamics or the fluidity and smoothness of key presses.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch ultimately depends on your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy feel that delivers a unique tactile experience characterized by a satisfying poppy and clacky sound, the Kailh BCP is an excellent choice. Its bouncy, elastic characteristics make it particularly enjoyable for those who like a more pronounced feedback during typing, which can help prevent typographical errors and enhance overall engagement with your keyboard. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more delicate touch and a typing experience that is both smooth and responsive, the Everglide Sunset Yellow might be the better option for you. With its medium-light actuation force, creamy feel, and rich, bassy sound profile, it's particularly well-suited for those who enjoy rapid typing or gaming sessions where quick key responses are vital. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and sound preferences to determine which switch will enhance your keyboard experience the most.
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