TTC Brother vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Brother and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer two distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences and needs. The TTC Brother switch is celebrated for its lightweight design, requiring just a 37g actuation force, making it an excellent choice for both gamers and typists who appreciate a tactile feedback without the excessive noise typically associated with clicky switches. Its unique silicone dampening pad mutates the traditional click sound into something more refined and muted, positioning it as an appealing option for those who seek a balance between audible satisfaction and workplace decorum. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) excels with its linear design, featuring Ly stems for an exceptionally smooth keystroke, ideal for those who prioritize a fluid typing experience. This switch thrives in scenarios that demand rapid key presses without any tactile interruption, making it a favorite among gamers who require precision and speed. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Brother Clicky

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$5.50

$3.30 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The TTC Brother and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) feature strikingly similar housing materials, utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing. This shared material results in a sound profile characterized by sharpness, high-pitched tones, and a crisp resonance. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to the clarity of the sound produced, making both switches excel in delivering a vibrant auditory experience. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of both switches. As such, users seeking a visually dynamic setup can expect consistent performance in terms of sound and lighting effects from either switch due to their identical top housing material.

On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which notably differentiates them from the top. Nylon’s properties lead to a fuller and deeper sound profile, resulting in a softer auditory feedback compared to the upper polycarbonate housing. This contrast between the stiffer top and the softer bottom allows for a unique experience when typing, as the bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a more muted, rounded acoustic characteristic. Thus, while both switches deliver a sharp and clear top-end sound, the nylon bottom gives an additional depth that enhances the overall typing experience, making both switches well-suited for different user preferences.

The combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings means that both the TTC Brother and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share common ground in terms of their auditory performance. However, the distinct qualities of each material contribute to a diverse sound profile. Users can expect a clarity and brightness from the release phase of key presses due to the polycarbonate top while also enjoying a fuller and more subdued sound upon bottoming out thanks to the nylon bottom. Therefore, the synthesis of these materials ensures that even though the properties differ, the overall user experience remains harmonious and engaging across both models.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces, which impact their typing experiences. The Brother switch features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it ideal for users who appreciate a softer touch and might engage in extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) demands a stronger actuation force of 55 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. The bottom out force of the Brother switch remains unknown, which leaves an open question regarding its resistance at full depression. Conversely, the Tomcat’s bottom out force is measured at 64 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel upon bottoming out, which reinforces its preference for users who favor a firmer typing experience. Thus, for users seeking a lighter switch, the Brother is the better choice, while those desiring a heavier tactile experience should lean toward the Tomcat (Heavy).

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the TTC Brother has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) measures 3.6 mm. This means that the TTC Brother is the shorter of the two, providing a slightly more responsive feel which might appeal to gamers who favor quicker actuation times. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for its deeper feedback and tactile experience. Both switches are within the realm of common travel distances, with the Tomcat aligning closely to the traditional 4.0 mm, making it a good option for those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress. Thus, while both switches can deliver satisfactory results in terms of actuation, the difference in their travel distances caters to different preferences, with the Brother catering to a quicker response and the Tomcat offering a more substantial feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the distinctions are notable. The Brother's sound can be characterized as "crunchy," reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, which adds an enjoyable auditory element to typists and gamers alike. This crunchiness stems from its lighter actuation force and the unique silicone dampening pad, which mitigates the harshness often associated with traditional clicky switches. In contrast, while the Tomcat (Heavy) is noted for its smooth typing experience, specific details about its sound are lacking. Generally, linear switches like the Tomcat tend to produce a quieter, more consistent sound compared to their clicky counterparts.

When it comes to the feel of each switch, the differences are equally pronounced. The Brother provides a "stepped" tactile feedback, which means that the user experiences a noticeable tactile bump that gives the sensation of hitting two distinct stages during the keystroke. This makes it ideal for those who appreciate a tactile response but prefer a slightly milder touch than hyper-tactile switches. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) is designed with Ly stems that promise a super smooth effect without the tactile feedback typical of clicky switches, aiming for a seamless and uninterrupted typing experience.

In summary, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a crunchy sound and a uniquely stepped tactile feel, making it suitable for users who want feedback with a controlled noise level. The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, while not defined in terms of sound and feel, is tailored for a smooth experience often favored for fast-paced gaming or prolonged typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches serve different preferences in sound and feel, and choosing between them will depend on whether one favors clicky satisfaction or a quiet, smooth execution in their typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you find yourself drawn to a lightweight typing experience that still delivers satisfying tactile feedback, the TTC Brother clicky switch might be the perfect fit for you. With a low 37g actuation force and a muted yet distinct click, it strikes a balance between being engaging and less disruptive, making it an excellent choice for both gaming sessions and long typing tasks in shared spaces. The Brother’s unique silicone dampening pad enhances its appeal by reducing noise while maintaining that satisfying click, which can be particularly beneficial if you want to enjoy the acoustic pleasure of typing without annoying those around you.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust and solid feel when typing, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is likely the way to go. With a heavier 64g bottom-out force, it provides a more substantial typing experience that many users find satisfying, especially during fast-paced gaming or intensive tasks where you value clear actuation over subtle feedback. The smooth action of the Tomcat switch, along with its resonant sound profile, supports a focused and immersive typing experience, ideal for those who appreciate a more traditional linear switch experience devoid of tactile bumps or clicky sounds. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences for typing feel and sound—light and clicky versus heavy and smooth.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Brother Clicky

$5.50

$3.30 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more