Sarokeys BCP vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it becomes evident that both offer unique experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The BCP by Sarokeys is known for its bouncy, creamy feel and signature clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience without the need for laborious switch disassembly and reassembly. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a hefty feel with a unique lack of a prominent tactile bump, resulting in a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. If you're looking for a switch with a bouncy and clacky feel, the BCP may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a neutral and mild tactile experience, the Kailh Plum could be the perfect fit. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh Plum both use nylon for their top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. However, the Plum's use of polycarbonate in its top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in material results in a more resonant sound profile for the Plum compared to the BCP. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Plum's top housing makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, giving it an aesthetic advantage over the BCP.
In terms of their bottom housing material, both the BCP and the Plum utilize nylon. This choice results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound for both switches. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users will experience consistent typing sound and feel when using either the BCP or the Plum switches.
When comparing the overall sound profile of the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh Plum, the material differences in their top housings play a significant role. The nylon top housing of the BCP provides a deeper sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Plum creates a sharper and crisper sound. However, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that the typing experience remains consistent between the two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the BCP and the Plum may come down to personal preference regarding sound profile, aesthetics, and lighting considerations.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The BCP has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Plum's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Plum requires a heavier force of 70 grams as opposed to the BCP's 57 grams. This means that the BCP is lighter to type on and may be more suitable for longer typing sessions, while the Plum provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Plum has the longer travel distance compared to the BCP. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.4 mm between the two may not be significant to most users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the BCP may be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance 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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 distinct clacky sound profile that is sharp, snappy, and percussive. This creates a satisfying auditory experience that many enthusiasts enjoy. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is moderate and enjoyable. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is lauded for its bouncy and creamy typing experience. The keys provide a spring-like, elastic feedback, alongside a smooth and buttery sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. On the contrary, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a mild and stepped tactile feel. This means that the typing experience is gentle and approachable, with a subtle tactile bump that provides a more subdued but still enjoyable typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that caters to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your personal preference for typing feel.
Overall, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch each offer distinctive sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The BCP excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy typing experience, while the Plum offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize a more pronounced auditory allure and lively typing experience, or a more neutral sound profile and approachable tactile feel. Both switches provide satisfying typing experiences, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy, creamy typing experience with a signature clacky sound, then the BCP may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a mild, neutral sound profile with a stepped tactile feel, then the Plum switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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