Gateron Beer vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular options to consider are the Gateron Beer and the Bsun Tomcat. The Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, stands out with its lightweight design and unique stepped tactility, which provides a satisfying yet subtle feedback, reminiscent of the bubbly sensation of a Tsingtao beer bottle. This switch also possesses a distinct clacky sound that many users find appealing, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a lively typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat is a linear switch that prioritizes a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke thanks to its Ly stems, offering users a seamless and quiet typing experience. The resonant sound profile adds to its charm, appealing to those who prefer a more muted operation. Both switches have their unique qualities: the Gateron Beer for its tactile feedback and engaging acoustics, and the Bsun Tomcat for its silky smoothness and understated operation. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer switches and the Bsun Tomcat switches, we find striking similarities in their top housings. Both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housings, which is noted for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The translucence of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic appeal when paired with RGB lighting, making these switches particularly appealing for gamers and enthusiasts who prioritize visual customization alongside functionality. This shared characteristic suggests that users of both switches can expect similar auditory experiences when pressing down on the key, as the top housing's material plays a critical role in the sound produced during actuation and release.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches differ significantly, with the Gateron Beer utilizing a polycarbonate bottom, while the Bsun Tomcat opts for a nylon housing. The choice of nylon in the Tomcat’s design introduces a softer and more absorbent material, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Beer’s crisper output. Nylon’s ability to absorb sound results in a duller and rounder auditory experience upon bottoming out, effectively contrasting with the sharper brightness provided by the polycarbonate material of the Beer. This fundamental difference in materials means that while the top sounds may be similar, the bottom-out experience will differ, with users of the Tomcat switches experiencing a more muted response.

Ultimately, the integration of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches allows for a consistent sound profile during actuation, but the varying materials in the bottom housing produce distinct qualities. When these switches are in use, the Gateron Beer will likely elicit a clearer and more resonant feedback, while the Bsun Tomcat will offer a warmer, more subdued sound upon bottoming out. This differentiation leads to a unique typing experience, demonstrating how the individual characteristics of the housing materials can influence overall performance and user satisfaction in mechanical keyboard switches. Users seeking a balance between the crispness of polycarbonate and the depth of nylon might gravitate toward these differences to suit their preferences for typing feedback.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Beer switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who favor a lighter touch during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that the Tomcat provides a more substantial push feel, which may appeal to those who prefer a heavier switch for a more tactile typing experience. Overall, while both switches have relatively low forces, the Gateron Beer is the lighter option, offering a softer typing experience compared to the slightly heavier Bsun Tomcat.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, it is evident that they differ in their measurements. The Gateron Beer has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Beer switch the shorter option, ideal for those seeking a more responsive keystroke, which is particularly favored by gamers who benefit from quicker response times. In contrast, the Tomcat's longer 3.6 mm travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback and depth in their typing experience. Therefore, while both switches provide unique advantages depending on personal preference, the Beer offers a shorter travel distance, making it a fitting choice for those prioritizing speed and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch stands out with its distinctively clacky sound profile. This sound is characterized by a sharp, snappy quality that produces a crisp and bright auditory experience, reminiscent of the effervescence associated with a Tsingtao beer bottle. The resonance of the Beer adds personality to the typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively. In contrast, while the sound characteristics of the Bsun Tomcat linear switch remain unspecified, it is noted that it also produces a resonant sound profile. This suggests that the Tomcat may produce a sound that is smooth and pleasant, although it may not have the pronounced clackiness of the Beer.

Regarding feel, the Gateron Beer excels with its easy-to-press design and stepped tactility. These switches require minimal force to activate, ensuring a comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue, especially during long sessions. The stepped tactile feedback provides a gentle yet noticeable distinction in the keystroke, allowing typists to feel the activation point without an overwhelming bump. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is designed with Ly stems, which are engineered for a super smooth typing experience. While its specific tactile feedback is not elaborated upon, the linear nature implies a consistent resistance throughout the keystroke with no distinct tactile bump, leading to a fluid typing feel.

Overall, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Beer offers a tactile experience with its clacky sound and stepped feel, ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback and a gentle tactile response. Conversely, the Tomcat may appeal to those who prefer a smooth and understated typing experience without pronounced feedback. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying results according to the typist's preferences, whether they seek the lively character of the Beer or the slickness of the Tomcat.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you lean towards a lighter switch that provides a unique tactile experience with a clacky sound profile, the Beer switch is likely the way to go. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it easy to press, which can be especially appealing if you engage in long typing sessions or enjoy a responsive feel. The stepped tactility adds an interesting nuance to your typing, making it suitable for both casual and serious use, especially if you appreciate a bit of auditory feedback. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother, linear experience with a bit more resistance, the Bsun Tomcat might be your ideal match. With its 54-gram bottom-out force, you gain a slightly more substantial typing feel while still allowing for smooth operation, which can be particularly advantageous if you’re into gaming or prefer a quieter typing experience without the clack. In essence, your decision hinges on whether you value tactile feedback and auditory engagement over smoothness and subtlety in your keystrokes.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more