Sarokeys BCP vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a unique typing experience in their own right. The Sarokeys BCP, a linear switch, is best known for its bouncy and creamy feel, offering a signature poppy and clacky sound profile that many users enjoy. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switch, also a linear switch, stands out for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that may appeal to different types of users. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Cold Plum utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom switch housing. This choice of material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches produce a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made with harder plastics. This similarity in housing material contributes to a consistent typing experience in terms of sound output and overall feel.
While both the BCP and Cold Plum switches share a common use of nylon for their housing materials, the slight differences in design between the two switches may affect the typing experience. The qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom housings, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing plays a greater role in the sound produced when a key is released. These nuances in housing design may result in subtle variations in sound and feel between the two switches despite their shared material composition.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the Sarokeys BCP and the Outemu Cold Plum contribute to a consistent typing experience characterized by deep and full sound profiles. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of these switches helps to create a uniform typing feel that absorbs sound and produces a rounder sound profile. While there may be slight differences in how the housing material impacts the typing experience between the two switches, the shared use of nylon ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of sound output and overall feel.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The BCP has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a smoother and easier typing experience. In contrast, the Cold Plum has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, resulting in a more substantial and tactile typing feel. While some may prefer the lighter weight of the BCP for extended typing sessions or gaming, others may find the heavier weight of the Cold Plum more satisfying for a more pronounced keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the Cold Plum switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the BCP switch. Gamers who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the BCP switch, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key press may opt for the Cold Plum switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance and will provide similar results in terms of quick key presses and responsiveness.
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 Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10 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 is known for its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch delivers a thocky sound profile, offering a unique and satisfying typing sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the BCP being more on the clacky side and the Cold Plum leaning towards a thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The keys have a lively feel, offering a rebound when pressed, and a silky sensation as your fingers effortlessly melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a smooth keystroke and satisfying feel, making it a great choice for enthusiasts seeking an enjoyable typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the BCP emphasizing bounce and creaminess, while the Cold Plum focuses on smoothness and satisfaction.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch each bring their own distinctive qualities to the table. The BCP excels in providing a clacky sound profile with a bouncy and creamy feel, whereas the Cold Plum offers a thocky sound profile with a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but rest assured that both switches will deliver a premium typing experience with their unique characteristics. Whether you opt for the BCP or the Cold Plum, you can expect quality and performance that meets your expectations in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between Sarokeys BCP linear switches and Outemu Cold Plum linear switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy, creamy typing feel with a poppy, clacky sound profile, then the Sarokeys BCP switches may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke, then the Outemu Cold Plum switches could be the better option. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, so it's essential to consider your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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