Kailh BCP vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh BCP and Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The BCP, a reimagining of the popular Black Cherry Pies, is celebrated for its unique creamy and bouncy feel, combined with a poppy sound profile that adds a lively character to each keystroke. This makes it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with a bit of auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° focuses on a stealthier approach to typing, featuring a self-padding design and dual-rail structure that ensure a smooth, stable experience while significantly minimizing noise. This makes it an ideal selection for users who prioritize a quiet environment, perhaps in shared spaces or during intensive work sessions. While both switches serve specific user preferences, they cater to different desires in terms of sound and tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Kailh BCP and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches present contrasting sound profiles due to their differing top housing materials. The BCP utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound experience when typing. This is a result of nylon's softer material, which inherently absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a rounder auditory impression. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° is constructed with a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for clearer reverberation, resulting in a higher-pitched sound that distinguishes it from the BCP. Thus, typing on these two switches will yield markedly different auditory experiences, with the BCP favoring a more muted tone and the Zero Degree 0° appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced sound.
On the other hand, both the Kailh BCP and Gateron Zero Degree 0° share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This commonality means that regardless of the differences between their top housings, both switches will exhibit similar characteristics when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing maintains its acoustic properties, as it effectively absorbs some sound, contributing to the deeper tonal quality experienced during the bottoming-out action. Therefore, while the auditory experience during actuation may differ based on the top housing, the fundamental tactile feedback and acoustic dampening are consistent across both switches, thanks to the unified use of nylon in the bottom housings.
In summary, while the Kailh BCP and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches differ in their top housing materials—nylon and polycarbonate, respectively—the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a cohesive feel across both switches. This interplay between materials means that the typing experience can exhibit a blend of sound profiles, with the unique characteristics of each switch emerging during actuation and release. The BCP resonates with a softer, muted sound due to its nylon top, while the Zero Degree 0° sharpens this experience with a crisper auditory output, demonstrating how varying materials can contribute to the complexity of a keyboard's overall sound and feel.
Weight
The Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch present contrasting characteristics in terms of actuation force, though the bottom-out force for the Gateron switch remains unspecified. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, making it relatively medium-heavy and suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, suggesting a more effortless keypress, which can benefit those who engage in long typing sessions or gaming. Since the bottom out force for the Gateron switch is not available, we cannot make a direct comparison there. However, based on their actuation forces, the Kailh BCP is the heavier option, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is lighter, catering to different user preferences for typing feel and overall comfort.
Travel distance
The Kailh BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.1 mm may seem minor, but it can influence the overall feel during key presses. Gamers or users looking for quicker response times might favor the Kailh BCP switch due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate faster actuations. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial tactile experience may opt for the Gateron Zero Degree switch, as its longer distance might lend itself to a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference based on the desired balance of responsiveness and 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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, which adds a lively and engaging auditory element to the typing experience. This sound can evoke a more tactile and satisfying interaction, particularly appealing to those who enjoy the feedback of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch offers an innovative approach to sound dampening with its self-padding design, resulting in one of the quietest typing experiences available. The dual-rail structure helps absorb sound, making it an ideal choice for environments where noise reduction is a priority. While both switches provide distinct auditory qualities, the BCP leans into a more vibrant sound, whereas the Zero Degree focuses on silence.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh BCP offers a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation that enhances the tactile experience during typing. This lends an engaging feedback that many find enjoyable for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth feel coupled with a soft, elastic response due to its self-padding mechanics. This smoothness results in an effortless typing experience, often preferred by those who prioritize a linear switch's gliding motion without tactile interruptions. While the BCP aims for a bounce-filled tactile interaction, the Zero Degree is all about an ultra-smooth, plush feel that assists in prolonged typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Kailh BCP and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches represent two different philosophies in switch design. The BCP stands out with its more pronounced sound and bouncier feel, making it suitable for users who enjoy a dynamic typing experience. Conversely, the Zero Degree excels in noise reduction and provides a smooth, cushioned touch for silence and stability. Depending on your priorities—be it the lively acoustics and tactile feedback of the BCP or the serene and smooth handling of the Zero Degree—both switches can deliver satisfying results in their respective domains, catering to different typing preferences effectively.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it comes down to your personal preferences regarding typing experience and sound. If you enjoy a medium-heavy switch that provides a more tactile feedback along with a pronounced sound profile, the BCP might be the way to go. Its unique creamy, viscous feel and satisfying poppy sounds date back to the classic Cherry switches but with an upgraded design that allows for an exciting typing experience. On the other hand, if you are leaning towards a quieter, smooth experience without the distraction of loud keystrokes, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is a fantastic choice. Its self-padding design and dual-rail structure are crafted for silent operation yet maintain a soft, elastic feel that enhances stability and comfort during long typing sessions. Therefore, consider your own priorities: whether you prefer a more dynamic auditory experience with some resistance or a whisper-quiet, silky-smooth feel as you type. By aligning your choice with your typing style and environment, you'll enhance your mechanical keyboard experience significantly.
Mentioned in this article
