Kailh BCP vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Kailh BCP and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, both of which are linear switches but bring their own unique characteristics to the typing experience. The Kailh BCP switches are renowned for their innovative design that reimagines the classic Black Cherry Pie switches, boasting a creamy, viscous feel that delivers a bouncy typing experience with a distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile. This makes them an excellent choice for typists who appreciate an audible feedback while maintaining smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the WS Pearl switches utilize ball-bearings to significantly reduce friction during keystrokes, creating an extremely smooth typing experience complemented by a medium-high pitched sound signature. This smoothness makes the Pearl an attractive option for gamers and casual typists alike who value quick, effortless key presses. While both switches cater to different preferences, their unique features warrant a closer examination. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh BCP and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, it's notable that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material due to its unique acoustic properties - it tends to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound better than harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, users of both the Kailh BCP and WS Pearl will likely find that they generate a similar sound signature when typing, characterized by its warmth and fullness.
Beyond their acoustic properties, the nylon housings of both the BCP and WS Pearl also influence the tactile feedback experienced while typing. Since both switches employ the same material for their top and bottom housings, the overall feel during keystrokes is expected to be consistent. The impact of the softer nylon is particularly felt during bottom-out moments, where the bottom housing primarily dictates the tactile feedback. As such, both the BCP and WS Pearl are designed to create a smoothly satisfying typing experience, allowing users to engage with their keyboards without sharp or jarring sensations.
Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that even with identical materials, variations in design or internal mechanisms can influence the overall performance. While the nylon top and bottom housings establish a baseline for similar acoustic and tactile experiences, the unique configurations, switch types, and any additional components in each model may lead to differing outcomes in feel and sound. Therefore, despite the shared properties of nylon across both the Kailh BCP and Wuque Studio WS Pearl, users may still notice subtleties that set the two models apart, ultimately affecting their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch with the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces reveal their unique typing experiences. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which can provide a more substantial and tactile feel during typing or gaming. In contrast, the WS Pearl is lighter, with an actuation force of just 30 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium range. This lower actuation force allows for easier keystrokes, making it a more suitable choice for users who prefer longer typing sessions without fatigue. While the bottom out forces are relatively close, the heavier BCP offers a firmer resistance before bottoming out compared to the WS Pearl. Overall, for typists seeking a lighter touch, the WS Pearl would be the better option, while those who enjoy a stronger push should consider the Kailh BCP.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch feature identical travel distances, measuring 3.5 mm from the top to the bottom. This means that users of either switch will experience the same keypress depth, resulting in a comparable tactile feedback during typing or gaming sessions. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they can deliver a similar performance in terms of key actuation sensitivity and response. Consequently, choosing between the two may depend more on other factors like switch feel, sound profile, or personal preference rather than the travel distance itself.
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 Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh BCP linear switch is characterized by a distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile that adds a lively acoustic element to the typing experience. This signature noise is achieved through its unique design and construction, which allows for a more pronounced auditory feedback compared to many other linear switches. The WS Pearl, on the other hand, produces a medium-high pitched sound that is generally perceived as less pronounced than the BCP's clack yet still provides a satisfying auditory experience. It’s important to note that sound can be affected by various external factors, including the choice of keyboard build and keycap material, which can alter the overall acoustic feedback of either switch.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh BCP switch is notable for its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation that makes typing enjoyable and engaging. This unique tactile quality offers a sense of responsiveness that can enhance overall typing speed and comfort. In contrast, the WS Pearl switch excels in providing an incredibly smooth experience due to its innovative use of ball-bearings, which dramatically reduce friction during keystrokes. This results in an ultra-smooth feel that many users find appealing, particularly for rapid successive key presses. While the BCP leans towards a bouncier, more tactile experience, the WS Pearl offers a more effortless glide, catering to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, both the Kailh BCP and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences, making them great choices for different types of users. The BCP stands out with its lively sound and bouncy feel, creating a distinct auditory and tactile experience. Meanwhile, the WS Pearl focuses on smoothness and a medium-high pitched sound, catering to those who prefer a quieter yet equally satisfying experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize engaging sound and bounce or effortless smoothness when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a bit more resistance while typing and appreciate a tactile, bouncy feel paired with a signature poppy sound, then the BCP is likely the better option for you. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams adds a noticeable weight to your keystrokes, which can be satisfying for those who prefer a more engaged typing experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smoother, more effortless typing experience, the WS Pearl might be your ideal match. With its unique ball-bearing mechanism that minimizes friction, you’ll find that it provides an incredibly smooth keystroke with a lighter bottom-out force of 58 grams. Additionally, the medium-high pitched sound signature of the WS Pearl offers a distinct auditory pleasure that complements the silky feel. In the end, your choice should reflect your typing style—whether you prioritize a more tactile and auditory feedback like the BCP or a frictionless and flowing experience with the WS Pearl.
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