Kailh BCP vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Kailh BCP switch stands out with its reimagining of the classic Black Cherry Pies, delivering a linear experience that is both creamy and elastic, producing a distinctive poppy and clacky sound that many enthusiasts adore. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a smooth keypress without tactile interruptions, making it a favorite for fast typing and gaming. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switch offers a light tactile option that caters to the discerning typist, providing a subtle bump that enhances feedback without overwhelming the user. Its design prioritizes comfort during long typing sessions, complemented by a removable light column for vibrant RGB effects, bringing a touch of illumination to any setup. While the Kailh BCP excels in delivering a lively auditory experience, the White Lotus shines in its muted tactility and aesthetic appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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 long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh BCP and the Durock White Lotus switches, notable distinctions arise in their top housing components. The BCP utilizes a nylon top housing, renowned for its classic properties, which contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon's relatively soft structure allows it to absorb sound waves effectively, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. In contrast, the White Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, designed to provide a unique and premium tactile experience. This composite material can introduce a bit more resonance and brightness to the sound profile, differentiating the overall auditory experience when typing on these switches.
On the other hand, both the Kailh BCP and Durock White Lotus employ nylon for their bottom housing, establishing some common ground between the two switches. This shared material supports the consistency in sound quality, as nylon maintains the same benefits across both products. As a result, both switches can produce a deeper and more satisfying sound upon bottoming out, as the bottom housing tends to have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound. This similarity means that, despite the differences in their top housing materials, users can expect some parallels in sound characteristics when the keys are pressed down fully.
In summary, while the Kailh BCP and Durock White Lotus switches diverge in their top housing materials—nylon versus a modified PC and UPE blend—both derive sonic benefits from utilizing nylon in their bottom housings. This alignment in bottom housing material ensures that both switches can deliver a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out, while the differences in top materials influence the sound profile upon release. Thus, while one offers a more traditional nylon experience and the other a potentially more lively sound and feel from its composite, the end results can still yield a satisfying typing experience aligned with user preferences for weight and acoustics.
Weight
The Kailh BCP linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer differing experiences in terms of actuation and bottom-out forces. The BCP switch has a noticeable actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the White Lotus is lighter, featuring an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom-out force of 56 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This means that for users who prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons, the White Lotus would be a more comfortable choice. Conversely, those who favor a stronger push for a more substantial feel while typing may lean towards the heavier BCP switch. Overall, while both switches serve their intended purposes well, the difference in weights allows users to select based on their personal preferences for typing dynamics.
Travel distance
The Kailh BCP linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This gives the BCP a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more instantaneous feel when pressing keys. Conversely, the White Lotus, with its longer travel distance, could provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a richer tactile experience. Ultimately, the difference in travel distances suggests that users selecting the BCP will experience a more responsive and quicker actuation, while those choosing the White Lotus may appreciate a more traditional and deeper 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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 presents a signature poppy and clacky profile, making it vibrant and engaging to the typist who enjoys auditory feedback. This lively sound can be quite satisfying, especially for those who appreciate a more dynamic typing experience. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This neutrality brings versatility, which means it will likely blend seamlessly into both quiet office environments and lively gaming sessions without being too distracting or intrusive. Overall, while the BCP is more pronounced and expressive in sound, the White Lotus offers a more subdued auditory backdrop, catering to different preferences depending on the environment and use.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh BCP delivers a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy experience that enhances the tactile sensation during typing. This makes the BCP quite enjoyable, providing that lively and responsive feedback to the fingers. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switch is designed to be easy to press, requiring minimal force for actuation, which makes them ideal for long typing sessions without taxing the fingers. The white Lotus also has a mild tactile response, ensuring that while the feedback is present, it remains subtle, contributing to a comfortable typing experience. Thus, while the BCP focuses on an engaging and dynamic feel, the White Lotus prioritizes ease of use and comfort, making each suitable for different typing styles and preferences.
In summary, the Kailh BCP linear switch shines with its vibrant and expressive auditory profile and lively tactile feel, making it a fun choice for enthusiasts who relish in engaging feedback. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch caters to those who seek a refined, gentle experience, with its low-pitched sound and easy-to-press mechanism, making it great for extended use. Ultimately, choosing between these switches boils down to personal preference — whether you favor the dynamic qualities of the BCP or the subtle, comfortable experience offered by the White Lotus. Each brings its unique characteristics to the table, allowing users to tailor their mechanical keyboard experience to match their needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Kailh BCP linear switches and Durock White Lotus tactile switches largely depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a medium-heavy feel that offers a satisfying, elastic bounce with a distinctive poppy and clacky sound, the BCPs are a fantastic option. They are ideal for those who want a more engaging and lively typing experience, particularly if you’re a typist or gamer who appreciates the unique auditory feedback and sensation of a tactile bump. Conversely, if you prioritize a quieter, more subdued typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long sessions, the Durock White Lotus is likely to be your best choice. With its easy-to-press mechanism and gentle, mild tactile feedback, it makes typing smooth and comfortable, making it particularly suitable for office environments or scenarios where noise is a concern. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences in terms of feel, sound, and the context in which you plan to use your keyboard.
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