Kailh Box Royal vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Royal and the Bsun Tomcat represent two distinct yet compelling options tailored to different typing preferences. The Box Royal is celebrated for its pronounced tactile feedback, characterized by a sharp, binary tactility that makes every keystroke feel intentional and satisfying. This switch, with its higher-pitched sound profile, is ideal for typists who enjoy an assertive auditory and tactile experience with each press. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switch offers a smooth, linear typing experience that eliminates tactile bumps, making it perfect for users who prioritize fluidity and minimal resistance. The Tomcat’s resonant sound adds a unique auditory element, enhancing the overall typing experience for those who favor a quieter, more subdued environment. Both switches have their merits and cater to specific preferences, making the choice between them depend largely on whether one values pronounced feedback or a smooth, silent operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$6.25 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Bsun Tomcat switches, we see a distinct divergence in the composition of their top housings. The Box Royal features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic stems from nylon's softer texture, which absorbs more sound and culminates in a dulled auditory experience. Conversely, the Tomcat utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper and crisper sound. Because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, it resonates sound waves more effectively than nylon, resulting in a more pronounced auditory clarity. These differences in material create a contrasting typing experience: with the Box Royal leaning towards a warmer, more muted sound and the Tomcat offering a brighter, more resonant performance.

Interestingly, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings, which are made of nylon. This uniformity in their bottom housing means that both the Kailh Box Royal and Bsun Tomcat will produce a similar auditory profile when bottoming out. The nylon bottom housing, being softer, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when the switch is fully pressed down, regardless of the top housing's composition. This shared characteristic ensures that while the two switches may differ in their top housing sound dynamics, they both provide a cohesive and muted bottom-out experience due to the use of the same nylon material below.

Ultimately, the acoustic qualities of each switch are shaped by the interaction of their top and bottom housings. The Box Royal’s nylon top and bottom combination creates a harmonious sound profile that is softer and more rounded, while the Tomcat’s polycarbonate top and nylon bottom allow for a sharper separation of sounds. Thus, while each switch will deliver a distinctive experience, the commonality of nylon in the bottom housing serves as a grounding element for both, allowing for an effective blending of varying auditory characteristics. For those seeking an experience that combines the two signatures, choosing a switch can be informed by whether a deeper sound or a crisper sound is desired overall.

Weight

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch exhibit notable differences in their bottom out forces, despite sharing the same actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches require the same pressure to register a keystroke, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel ideal for extended use. However, the Box Royal has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is significantly heavier compared to the Tomcat's 54 grams. This difference suggests that while both switches provide a similar actuation experience, the Box Royal will feel more substantial when fully depressed, providing a more pronounced feedback for users who appreciate a stronger push feel. Therefore, for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Tomcat is the better choice, while the heavier bottom out force of the Box Royal may appeal to those who enjoy a more robust typing sensation.

Travel distance

Both the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Since both switches have identical travel distances, they will provide comparable results in terms of feel and feedback during use. Whether you're looking for tactile feedback from the Box Royal or the smooth actuation of the Tomcat, you'll enjoy the same total travel distance, enhancing the overall typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is recognized for its higher-pitched auditory profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound with each keypress. This type of switch is particularly suited for those who prefer a more pronounced acoustic experience without the deep, bassy tones found in some other switches. The Bsun Tomcat linear switch, while lacking a specific sound profile description, is noted for its resonant sound when typed on, implying a distinct auditory character that may differ from the sharper sounds of the Box Royal. This suggests that while the Box Royal delivers a clear and bright auditory feedback, the Tomcat may offer a sound that resonates differently, contributing to an altogether different typing atmosphere.

In terms of feel, the Box Royal switch stands out due to its sharp tactile feedback, providing a significant tactile bump that is felt vividly with each keypress. This intensity creates a more dynamic typing experience, with users enjoying the almost aggressive tactile response that these switches offer. In contrast, the Tomcat switch is geared towards delivering a super smooth typing experience, characterized by the use of Ly stems that facilitate effortless key presses. Therefore, while the Box Royal may satisfy those who revel in tactile sensations, the Tomcat is tailored for those who prefer a fluid and uninterrupted typing action.

In summary, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch cater to different preferences, particularly in sound and feel. The Box Royal offers a high-pitched, sharp auditory experience complemented by an intense tactile feel, making it ideal for users who appreciate pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Tomcat presents a unique resonant sound profile alongside a smooth typability that appeals to those favoring a softer, linear input. Depending on personal preference, both switches can lead to satisfying typing experiences, but the choice ultimately hinges on whether one prioritizes pronounced tactile feedback or a seamless smoothness.

Conclusion

To conclude, selecting between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you crave a robust and aggressive tactility, the Box Royal is your go-to choice, as it provides a sharp and pronounced tactile feedback with a high-pitched sound profile. This makes it ideal for typists who enjoy feeling a distinct bump on each keystroke, offering an engaging and responsive experience, albeit at a medium-heavy actuation force of 70 grams. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Tomcat linear switch is well-suited for you. With its medium-light actuation force of 54 grams and Ly stems, it delivers a silky-smooth sensation devoid of any tactile bump, allowing for effortless key presses. The resonant sound profile adds a satisfying auditory element without the harshness associated with higher-pitched switches. In essence, your choice hinges on whether you prioritize the satisfying feedback of tactile switches or seek the smoothness and subtlety of linear ones.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

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Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more