Sarokeys BCP vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Mint, both linear switches offering unique characteristics. The Sarokeys BCP, inspired by the iconic Black Cherry Pies, provides a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Mint stands out for its satisfyingly smooth feel and poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem design. While the BCP is known for its bouncy and clacky nature, the Mint offers a more neutral and polished typing experience. When deciding between the two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and overall typing experience. 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
51g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and KTT Mint both feature nylon top housings, which are known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Mint utilizes polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound preference and typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the BCP and Mint feature nylon bottom housings, which offer similar qualities in terms of sound profile and feel. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. By utilizing the same material for the bottom housing, both the BCP and Mint ensure consistency in typing experience and sound profile throughout the switch.
While the BCP and Mint share similarities in their choice of materials for the bottom housing, the key point of differentiation lies in their top housing materials. The BCP's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Mint's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics highlights the importance of top housing material in influencing the overall sound experience of a switch. Whether one prefers the duller and rounder sound of nylon or the clear and resonant sound of polycarbonate, the choice between the BCP and Mint ultimately comes down to individual sound preferences and typing experience.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch both fall into the medium-light category in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. However, the Mint switch is slightly lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the BCP's 51 grams. Both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. When it comes to bottom out force, the BCP requires 57 grams while the Mint requires 53 grams, making the Mint switch slightly lighter in this aspect as well. For those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may prefer the BCP switch with its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Mint linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The BCP offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Mint switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, so your choice ultimately depends on your personal preference for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys BCP has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.85.
The KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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 Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a distinctively clacky experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, featuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various purposes. Depending on your preference, the BCP will deliver a crisp and bright sound, while the Mint will give a more subdued and smooth auditory feedback.
Moving on to the feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch boasts a bouncy and creamy typing experience, with a spring-like elasticity and a buttery smooth sensation. This allows for a lively feedback and a luxurious glide across the keys. In contrast, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the BCP excels in rebound and silky keystrokes, the Mint delivers a refined and approachable typing feel.
Ultimately, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is evident that they offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The BCP excels in providing a clacky sound and a bouncy, creamy feel, delivering a lively and luxurious typing experience. On the other hand, the Mint shines with its low-pitched and neutral sound, coupled with a mild and polished feel for a smooth and gentle typing sensation. Depending on whether you prefer a more vibrant and elastic typing experience or a subtle and refined one, both switches offer exceptional qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Although they differ in sound and feel, using either switch will provide a satisfying typing experience with distinctive qualities that cater to various preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a bouncy and clacky sensation with a poppy sound, the BCP switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and mild typing experience with a low-pitched and polished sound, the Mint switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the specific qualities that appeal to you most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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