Kailh Box White V2 vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) can significantly influence your typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 switches are celebrated for their clicky mechanism, providing crisp tactile feedback and an audible click that many typists prize for its satisfying response and enhanced typing accuracy. These switches are ideal for those who enjoy a lively and pronounced auditory sensation while they type, making them perfect for not only gaming but also for general typing tasks where feedback is essential. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches offer a linear experience characterized by a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or click, which many users prefer for a quieter environment and less distraction during intensive tasks or gaming sessions. Their Ly stems contribute to a fluid typing experience, ideal for those who favor speed and minimal resistance. While both switches have their distinctive appeals—one priding itself on auditory feedback and the other on smoothness and quietness—each serves different preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboards. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh Box White V2 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share a remarkable similarity in their top housing material, both featuring polycarbonate. This choice of material heavily influences the sound profile, resulting in a sharper and crisper auditory experience. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer resonance, allowing users to enjoy the distinct sound characteristics that come with this type of housing, especially when configured with RGB lighting. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also ensures that the light can beautifully illuminate the switch, providing a visually immersive experience for users who appreciate vibrant keyboard lighting.

Conversely, the bottom housings of both switches are crafted from nylon, another factor that lends itself to a pronounced similarity between the two models. Nylon's properties contribute to a softer sound profile, absorbing vibrations and producing a deeper, fuller sound when typing. This contrasts starkly with the brighter tones generated by the polycarbonate top housing but creates a harmonious balance within each switch. Since both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) utilize nylon for their bottom housings, they share a similar tactile experience and sound when pressed down, making each of them effective choices for individuals who prioritize a satisfying and rounded typing experience.

When comparing the overall sound profile and typing feel, the interplay between the distinct top and bottom housing materials becomes significant. While the polycarbonate top delivers high-pitched clarity as keys are released, the nylon bottom enriches the bottom-out sound and feel with a softer tone. As such, even though both switches integrate the same materials, the resulting auditory experience is a fusion of their characteristics—creating a blend of sharper and fuller sound profiles. This ensures that users of either switch will have a well-rounded auditory experience, distinctly influenced by the quality of each housing, and enables them to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel when typing.

Weight

The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch differ significantly in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a softer feel for long typing sessions or extended gaming periods. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. This means that the Box White V2 is the lighter option overall, while the Tomcat (Heavy) appeals to those who appreciate the sensation of a heavier press. Therefore, if you favor ease of use and comfort over longer durations, the Kailh Box White V2 is more suitable, whereas the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) would be the better choice for users seeking a firmer push feel.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making their travel distances identical. As both switches can be pressed down the same distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation. This uniformity in travel distance suggests that whether using the clicky Box White V2 or the linear Tomcat (Heavy), the tactile experience will be comparable, allowing for consistent typing or gaming performance across both switch types.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White V2 is characterized by its crisp and pronounced click, which makes it a popular choice for users who enjoy an audible response while typing. This click sound is both pleasant and engaging, adding a dynamic element to the typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch has a resonant sound profile, though it lacks the distinct click of the Box White V2. Instead, it provides a more subdued and smooth sound that is typical of linear switches, making it suitable for environments where minimizing noise is preferred.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a tactile feedback that is both satisfying and responsive. The pronounced bump at the actuation point enhances typing accuracy and adds to the overall engagement with the keyboard. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is designed for a super smooth typing experience due to its Ly stems, which means there is no tactile feedback or audible click to interrupt the flowing motion of keystrokes. This smoothness makes it ideal for users who prefer a more fluid typing experience without any distractions.

Overall, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Box White V2 excels in delivering an auditory and tactile sensation, making it a great choice for typists who thrive on feedback, while the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a smoother, quieter alternative for those who value seamless keystrokes. Depending on your typing style and sound tolerance, you may find satisfaction with either switch, as they effectively deliver distinct and enjoyable experiences according to your preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a responsive, clicky feedback with an audible sound profile, the Kailh Box White V2 is ideal for you—its lighter actuation force of 50 grams allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, making it great for typing fast or gaming where precision is key. The satisfying click can enhance your typing experience, providing both tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier keypress and a smoother experience, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch may be more your speed. With a bottom-out force of 64 grams, these switches provide a bit more resistance, which might appeal to users who want a more deliberate feel while typing. The resonant sound profile of the Tomcat enhances the smoothness of each stroke, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quieter, seamless typing experience. Consider what feels best for you in terms of tactile feedback and sound, and choose the switch that aligns with your typing habits and environment.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more