Kailh BCP vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference for feel and sound. The Kailh BCP switch presents a unique linear experience, reminiscent of the renowned Black Cherry Pies but reimagined with modern craftsmanship—providing a bouncy, viscous typing sensation paired with a poppy and clacky sound profile that can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers an entirely different proposition, designed with the office environment in mind; it features a moderately tactile feel while significantly reducing noise. This is achieved without the use of silicone dampeners, allowing for a crisp typing experience that maintains tranquility, a valuable quality for shared workspaces. While the BCP is ideal for those who revel in auditory responses and a lively typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile caters to users who prioritize stealthy operation without sacrificing tactile sensation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh BCP and Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile feature housings made from nylon, a material that is highly regarded in the world of mechanical switches. The consistent use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings contributes to a similar auditory experience. As a softer plastic, nylon has the ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, which creates a notably deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared characteristic enhances the tactile feedback and sound quality of both switches, leading to a subdued and rounded acoustic experience when typing. It is this similarity in materials that underlines the comparable performance of both switches, particularly in their sound dynamics.
Diving deeper into the specifics, the use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in the BCP and WS Silent Tactile means that the tonal qualities are likely to be consistent across the switches. The nylon material’s capacity for sound absorption allows for a typing experience that minimizes harshness and fosters a more enjoyable ambiance, regardless of whether the sound is produced during actuation or when releasing the key. Given that both switches are constructed from this classic material, users can expect a cohesive sound profile that leans toward a softer auditory feedback, eliminating the sharp clicks associated with some other switch types.
However, while the housing materials contribute to similar sound profiles, the differences may emerge from other design elements that could impact feel and performance. For example, the mechanisms of actuation and any potential dampening systems employed in the switches could lead to distinct tactile experiences. If the bottom housings carry different qualities in terms of design or weight distribution, they would influence how each switch feels when bottoming out. Nonetheless, the shared nylon composition in both the top and bottom housings indicates that users will experience many commonalities in sound and feel, making both switches excellent choices for anyone seeking that deep, rounded sound signature characteristic of nylon switches.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, it's essential to note the actuation and bottom out forces, as these significantly influence typing experience. The BCP has a defined actuation force of 52 grams, requiring a moderate amount of pressure to register a keystroke, while the WS Silent Tactile does not specify an actuation force, leaving it unknown. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating that they have a similar resistance when pressed down fully. Consequently, the Kailh BCP can be categorized as the lighter option due to its measurable actuation force of 52 grams compared to the WS Silent Tactile's unknown, but typically heavier tactile feel. This makes the BCP more suitable for extended typing sessions where lower force is preferred, while the WS Silent Tactile may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer, more substantial feel in their keystrokes. Overall, if one were to favor a switch with less actuation force, the Kailh BCP would be the optimal choice, whereas the WS Silent Tactile caters to those who appreciate a stronger push.
Travel distance
The Kailh BCP linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that users will experience the same key press depth when engaging either switch. This equivalence in travel distance ensures that typing and gaming experiences are similar in terms of the distance traveled when pressing the keys, contributing to a consistent feel for users switching between these two options. Consequently, those who prefer the characteristics of either switch can expect similar results in terms of key press responsiveness and overall feel.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 delivers a signature poppy and clacky sound profile that can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy an auditory feedback with each keystroke. This vibrant sound is reminiscent of traditional mechanical switches and can evoke a sense of nostalgia for classic typing experiences. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is designed to mute the cacophony often associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a more neutral and muted audible profile. This makes the WS Silent Tactile particularly well-suited for quiet environments like offices, where noise reduction is a priority, without sacrificing the crispness that many users desire in their typing experience.
When discussing feel, the BCP switch is characterized by a creamy, viscous, and elastic sensation, coupled with a bouncy feedback that makes typing feel engaging and lively. This tactile richness can make for a dynamic experience, emphasizing the joy of each key press. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility, ensuring that users receive notable feedback without it being overwhelming. Described as accented and invigorating, this switch provides a snappy and reactive typing sensation that stands in a comfortable middle ground. It makes for a typing experience that feels satisfying and controlled, catering to users seeking tactile feedback while maintaining a gentle touch.
Integrating all these qualities, both switches cater to different user preferences yet may fulfill similar needs in distinct contexts. The BCP is best for those who enjoy pronounced auditory feedback and a lively, elastic feel, making it ideal for personal setups or enthusiasts. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile excels in quieter offices or shared spaces, where its innovative design minimizes noise while still providing a substantive tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound dynamics or require a more subdued environment without sacrificing the joy of tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, consider your environment and typing preference. If you enjoy a lively and bouncy typing experience that features a distinct pop and clack sound, the BCP is an excellent choice, particularly for use in a personal setting where acoustics are less of a concern. Its medium-heavy actuation force ensures a satisfying feedback that many typing enthusiasts appreciate. However, if you find yourself in an office or shared workspace where noise levels need to be minimized, the WS Silent Tactile switch should be your go-to option. Its medium tactility combined with superior noise reduction allows for a crisp yet quiet typing experience, making it ideally suited for environments where discretion is key. Overall, your choice should align with your desired typing sound and feel, as well as the context in which you will be using your keyboard.
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