Gateron Aliaz vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) stand out for their unique designs and characteristics catering to different typing preferences. The Aliaz, renowned for its silent operation, is ideal for quiet environments like offices, where the muted sound profile allows for focused productivity. Its medium-heavy weight provides a substantial feel, creating a satisfying tactile feedback that many users appreciate without the disruptive noise often associated with mechanical switches. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offers a linear experience, promising a super smooth typing feel thanks to its Ly stems. While it lacks the tactile bump of the Aliaz, it compensates with a resonant sound that some users find appealing. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches hinges on your specific environment and typing preferences; if you value silence and feedback, the Aliaz may be your go-to, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) could be your choice for fluidity and responsiveness. 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share similarities in their top housing materials, as both utilize polycarbonate. This commonality results in a sound profile that is sharp, higher-pitched, and characterized by crispness due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This stiffer plastic enhances the clarity of the switches' acoustic response, providing a more resonant sound that is particularly appealing for keyboard enthusiasts. Furthermore, both switches' translucency makes them exceptionally suitable for RGB lighting, allowing vibrant colors to shine through and enhance the overall aesthetic of the keyboard.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge significantly. The Aliaz employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which continues the trend of clarity and resonance established by its top housing. This design approach ensures that both the bottom-out feel and sound retain that same pronounced quality associated with polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) features a nylon bottom housing, renowned for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, producing a duller and rounder acoustic characteristic that contrasts sharply with the sharpness of the Aliaz. This variance in material affects the overall typing experience, with the Aliaz maintaining a consistent sound profile while the Tomcat (Heavy) introduces a different tonal quality from the bottom housing.
When comparing these switches, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ, the combined acoustics and feel of the switch will reflect the distinct attributes of each material. With the Aliaz, the uniform use of polycarbonate allows for a consistent auditory experience, as both the top and bottom contribute similarly to the sound and feel. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) delivers a hybrid experience, where the polycarbonate top provides clarity while the nylon bottom contributes a warmer, fuller sound. Users seeking clarity and sharpness may prefer the Aliaz, while those looking for a softer and richer sound may find the Tomcat (Heavy) to be more appealing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a heavier option overall. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) features a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions may find the Tomcat more comfortable, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Aliaz due to its heavier resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference for weight and tactile feedback during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the Aliaz features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Tomcat (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference in travel distance suggests that the Aliaz may provide a more substantial keypress experience, which some users prefer for its tactile feedback and depth. On the other hand, the Tomcat's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm caters to those who favor responsive keystrokes, making it a suitable choice for gamers seeking quicker actuation. Consequently, users looking for a more abrupt feel may lean towards the Tomcat, while those desiring a more pronounced travel experience would likely opt for the Aliaz. Thus, the decision hinges on personal preference regarding the balance between depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz switches are designed for quiet environments, producing a muted sound profile that significantly minimizes the acoustic feedback typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes them particularly suitable for office settings or any place where noise levels need to be kept in check. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches feature a resonant sound profile, which suggests that they offer a more pronounced auditory feedback compared to the Aliaz. However, the specific characteristics of the Tomcat’s sound profile are not detailed, leaving some ambiguity in comparison.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz excels with a silky and polished typing experience. Their construction promotes exceptionally smooth key movements and reduced resistance, which enhances the overall typing pleasure. The combination of a medium-heavy weight and a refined finish means that users can expect a satisfying tactile feedback without any abruptness. Although the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is noted for its smoothness due to its Ly stems, the specifics of its feel in terms of tactile feedback or weight are not disclosed. This makes it difficult to fully gauge how it compares to the Aliaz in terms of user experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Aliaz offers a muted sound and a refined feel that makes it well-suited for quiet, professional environments, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is characterized by a more resonant sound, with a focus on smoothness in key travel. If you value a silent yet tactile experience, the Aliaz would be the better option, while the Tomcat might appeal to those who prefer a lively acoustic response. The unknown qualities of the Tomcat leave a gap in fully understanding its tactile nature, but if you are inclined towards a smoother typing experience, both switches promise to deliver satisfaction in their respective domains.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your specific typing environment and preferences. If you often find yourself in quiet settings like an office, the Aliaz is an excellent choice; its muted sound profile and tactile feedback deliver a satisfying typing experience without disturbing others. The heavier bottom-out force of 75 grams provides a solid feel, making it great for users who appreciate pronounced keystrokes without the accompanying noise. On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch with a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, especially for gaming or fast-paced typing, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is ideal. With a lighter bottom-out force of 64 grams and an undeniably silky feel, this switch caters to those who prioritize a smooth keystroke and react quickly with minimal resistance. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing habits: choose the Aliaz for a quiet, tactile feedback experience or opt for the Tomcat if you desire smoothness and responsiveness in every stroke.
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