A Deep Dive: Black Cherry Pie
Another Frankenswitch?
Enthusiasts back then did not have the luxury of experiencing the amount of switch variations that we have today. Therefore, they tend to experiment with different combinations with different parts of switches to create a uniquely perfect switch for them.
Black Cherry Pies (BCP) are one of the most popular frankenswitches as a result from that era. Many iterations have also been made to recreate the sound and feel of the BCP. But why is it so hyped?
The Origins of BCPs
It was first explored in the Smith + Rune discord server, where user whyareyourunning came about this combination. The parts he specifically used were:
- Kailh NK Cream Stem (long-pole linear stem)
- JWK H1 Bottom Housing (linear housing)
- Cherry MX Top Housing
This specific combination resulted in a clacky, full-bodied sound, with a very nice pop to it.
Long-pole stems weren't so mainstream back then, but many frankenswitchers started experimenting with these stems due to the unique bottom-out sound that it offers. Besides, JWK switches were well known to be very smooth. And to top it off, Cherry housings were a cult-favourite for its sound signature.
Fun fact: the user "whyareyourunning" is a local member of the keyboard community!
Hear the BCPs sing:
See, there is a reason that it became so popular. Many iterations have since been created, as the original "recipe" may cost around RM7 per switch. Some popular iterations are using the stems of Kailh Black/Red or using the bottom housing of other JWK linear switches (particularly the JWK Nylon Black, as it's 3 times cheaper than H1).
Its popularity also led to it being re-manufactured as a whole by some manufacturers. This is actually a great news for newcomers or budget-constrained enthusiasts as it is now easily accessible, as the price for one of the re-manufactured BCP is about the same price of a JWK H1. Crazy right?
BCP Iterations
Kailh Black/Red/Pro Burgundy Stem, JWK Nylon Bottom Housing, Cherry MX Top Housing
This frankenswitch iteration is one of the closest to the "OG recipe" as most of the parts are roughly the same. Resulting in a very close sound and feel to the OG. But it being a frankenswitch, it may put some beginners off to try.
Being manufactured by Kailh, this iteration is one of the better factory-made ones. It has a light factory lube, and even retains some scratchiness to it. Although it has a longer travel, and sounds slightly higher pitched, most enthusiasts do agree that it pays homage to the OG BCP
Bsun "Sarokey" BCP
It has some similarities with the OG BCP, but in our opinion, it should be a standalone switch without the "BCP" name. It is by no means a bad switch, but it is not even close to the OG, especially with the Kailh BCP around.
Our Verdict
So, is it worth it to make your own Black Cherry Pie frankenswitch? In our opinion, it is not worth it, especially with the available choices of switches that we have around. Additionally, you may have to mod it for the optimal performance. With the time, money, and effort you need to put in this frankenswitch, we can't guarantee that the final outcome will be what you're looking for.
Alternatively, if you really want to try out the BCP, we would recommend going for the Kailh BCP as you can get something very similar to the OG, while paying a third of the price. Plus, you don't really need to mod this switch, as it's good to go straight out of the box.