Kailh BCP vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh BCP and KTT Wine Red stand out as notable linear options, each offering unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Kailh BCP switch reimagines the beloved Black Cherry Pie with custom-molded technology, providing a creamy and bouncy feel that ensures a typing experience accompanied by a distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch impresses with its pillowy light touch, delivering a deeply rich, low-pitched audio experience that many users find both luxurious and inviting. While the BCP may appeal to those who enjoy an engaging auditory feedback during typing, the Wine Red may be more suited for individuals seeking a softer, bassy feel. 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
44g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh BCP and the KTT Wine Red switches, a clear distinction lies in their choice of top housing materials. The BCP features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile characterized by duller resonance. This softer plastic absorbs more sound and enhances the overall typing experience, giving it a warm and muted acoustic quality. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing that offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate provides clarity and resonance, making it ideal for a crisper typing experience. Therefore, while the BCP softens the auditory feedback, the Wine Red amplifies it, creating a contrasting sonorous effect that appeals to different preferences.
The comparison continues with the bottom housings of each switch. The BCP's nylon bottom housing maintains the same sonic characteristics as its top housing, promoting a consistent deeper sound throughout the key press. This affinity for absorbing sound results in a more cohesive audio experience that prioritizes a pleasant tactile feel. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing introduces a more pronounced sound profile, aligning with its top housing to create a brighter and more resonant peak at the bottom-out impact. This divergence in materials between the two switches results in contrasting acoustics, where the BCP's typing experience is enveloped in warmth while the Wine Red emphasizes sharpness and clarity.
In essence, the different materials used in the top and bottom housings greatly influence the typing experience of each switch. The Kailh BCP's consistent use of nylon across both housings produces a rounded, cohesive sound, whereas the KTT Wine Red employs different materials to amplify the clarity of sound. Notably, if you desire a combination of similar acoustic results, one might consider that the overall experience can be tailored by modulating the switch's enclosure or adding dampers to the Wine Red, mimicking the fuller sound of the BCP despite the inherent differences in their material compositions. Ultimately, each switch offers a unique auditory experience, appealing to distinct user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The BCP switch features an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red switch requires a lighter actuation force of 44 grams and has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. This difference means that the BCP switch provides a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, which some users prefer for a more tactile experience. The KTT Wine Red, being lighter, can facilitate longer typing sessions and is ideal for users who prioritize comfort over resistance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference, where those who favor a heavier push will lean towards the BCP, while those who appreciate a lighter touch will likely opt for the KTT Wine Red.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, we find that they differ significantly. The BCP switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Wine Red, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This difference of 0.5 mm means that users who favor the quicker response times typical of shorter travel distances might prefer the BCP switch, while those who enjoy the more traditional depth and tactile feedback of a longer actuation will likely opt for the Wine Red. Overall, the Kailh BCP offers a more responsive experience, while the KTT Wine Red provides a more substantial feel, catering to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 comparing the sound characteristics of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, the BCP stands out with its poppy and clacky sound profile, which brings a lively auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red delivers a more bassy and low-pitched sound, characterized by a deeper and richer tone with each keystroke. This distinct difference in sound will appeal to different preferences; those who enjoy a more vibrant and sharp sound may favor the BCP, while users who prefer a softer, more muted auditory feedback might gravitate toward the Wine Red switches.
In terms of feel, the BCP is lauded for its unique combination of creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy textures, creating an engaging and responsive typing experience. This gives the switch a lively character, which is complemented by its signature sound profile. Conversely, the Wine Red switches provide a pillowy light type feel, contributing to a softer and more cushioned experience when typing. The tactile difference can lead to varying typing experiences, with the BCP offering an energizing sensation and the Wine Red enticing with a more relaxed touch.
Considering all the available information, users will find that while the Kailh BCP and KTT Wine Red switches both deliver enjoyable linear experiences, they cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The BCP excels in a lively and engaging sound and feel, while the Wine Red prioritizes a deeper, more subdued sound paired with a soft touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing styles and personal preferences, with each option providing a unique experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you're after. If you favor a typing experience that feels more substantial and rewarding, the BCP is an excellent choice. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it provides a bouncy, elastic feel that enhances tactile feedback, making each keystroke feel deliberate and satisfying. The poppy and clacky sound profile can add an energizing rhythm to your typing, ideal for those who enjoy an audible response while they type. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a more cushioned feel, the KTT Wine Red switch might be more aligned with your needs. The medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams offers a pillowy smoothness, which can be particularly comfortable for longer typing sessions. Additionally, its deep and rich sound profile provides a more soothing auditory experience, perfect for those who appreciate a lower frequency range without the sharpness that higher-pitched switches can bring. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, whether you lean towards a more tactile, robust experience with the BCPs or a softer, quieter approach with the Wine Reds.
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