Gateron CJ vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options, and two standout linear switches are the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Tomcat. The Gateron CJ is renowned for its unique and enjoyable typing experience, characterized by a distinctive higher-pitched clack and an incredibly smooth push feel. This combination gives it a sound profile that leans towards chirpy and low-pitched while still offering a mild thocky resonance, making it appealing for those who appreciate auditory feedback in their typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches boast Ly stems that provide an exceptionally smooth and resonant typing experience, ideal for users seeking seamless keystrokes without any interruptions. Both switches have their unique features that cater to different preferences: the CJ’s engaging sound profile versus the Tomcat's silky feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Tomcat switches provide a fascinating contrast that significantly influences their acoustic profiles. The Gateron CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is characterized by a pointed and high-pitched sound. This blend offers a distinctive and satisfying clack when typing, resulting in a thin but pleasing auditory experience. In contrast, the Tomcat features a polycarbonate top housing, which similarly contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate lends a clearer resonance, making both switches capable of producing a delicate and high-pitched sound. Consequently, users seeking a bright acoustics in their typing experience may find parallels in the sound characteristics of both switches, despite their differing materials.

Examining the bottom housings reveals additional diversity in sound profiles. The CJ employs a POM bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and more muted sound. POM, being a relatively dense plastic, absorbs sound waves effectively, creating a unique auditory experience that contrasts with the acoustic clarity of the top housing. Meanwhile, the Tomcat opts for a nylon bottom housing, another classic material that also produces a fuller and deeper sound. The nylon’s softer texture allows it to absorb sound waves, further dulling the auditory feedback and resulting in a broader and rounder sound profile. Thus, while both switches aim for pleasing auditory feedback, the overall sound dynamics differ significantly due to these contrasting bottom housing materials—each contributing to a unique acoustic signature when typing.

When considering the overall performance of each switch, it becomes evident that the combination of top and bottom housings contributes distinctively to the typing experience. The Gateron CJ’s combination of a high-pitched INK blend with a deeper, muted POM bottom leads to a typing sound that is crisp on keypress but softer on bottom-out, giving rise to an engaging acoustic experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, offers a similar yet notably different experience, with a sharper release sound and a deep, resonant bottom-out feel. Despite their material differences, both switches attain a balance of clarity and depth which can yield a beneficial experience for users, especially in RGB-enabled setups where housing visibility plays a role in aesthetics. By focusing on the interplay between top and bottom housing materials, users can understand how each element contributes to the final sound signature of these distinct switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Gateron CJ features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This difference suggests that the Gateron CJ provides a heavier push feel, which may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the lighter forces of the Tomcat could be advantageous for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. Overall, while both switches have their unique characteristics, the Gateron CJ is the heavier option, whereas the Bsun Tomcat offers a lighter alternative.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the Gateron CJ stands out with a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat measures 3.6 mm. This makes the Tomcat the shorter option, appealing to gamers who prefer quicker response times for faster gameplay. In contrast, the Gateron CJ's longer travel distance of 4 mm may provide a more substantial and deeper feel, which some users favor for a less abrupt typing experience. Thus, individuals seeking responsiveness should consider the Tomcat for its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more traditional and hearty depth might opt for the Gateron CJ.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch produces a unique auditory experience characterized by a chirpy quality that introduces higher-pitched clacks, setting it apart from other linear switches. This resonates well in environments where you want a bit of character without being obnoxious, making them suitable for various contexts, from office use to gaming. The CJ also has low-pitched and thocky undertones that provide a deeper, satisfying sound when pressed, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, while the Tomcat's sound profile is less specified, it is noted to provide a resonant quality. This suggests a more pronounced and engaging auditory feedback, but specific descriptors like pitch or tonal balance that could give further insight into its sound characteristics remain unknown.

In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ stands out with its impossibly smooth push feel, which is accentuated by a mild character that ensures an approachable typing experience. It strikes a balance that caters to both novices and seasoned typists, allowing for a gentle yet responsive touch. However, the Bsun Tomcat switch’s tactile feel is not detailed, leaving its tactile response, smoothness, and overall typing experience undefined. Without specific descriptors, it’s challenging to provide a direct comparison for the Tomcat in terms of feel, which may lead you to another switch if touch sensitivity is a priority.

In conclusion, while the Gateron CJ switch features a distinct chirpy sound signature and a smooth, mild feel that appeals to a wide range of users, the Bsun Tomcat's sound profile remains resonant, though lacking specific descriptive qualities. The CJ offers a compelling mix of auditory and tactile characteristics that make it a standout choice, while the Tomcat's appeal could arise from its unknown attributes. Ultimately, if you're looking for character in sound and a smooth typing experience, the CJ is a clear contender, whereas exploring the Tomcat could be worthwhile if you're curious about its performance despite the gaps in available information.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Tomcat linear switches ultimately boils down to your personal preferences in feel and sound. If you lean towards a switch that offers a slightly heavier, medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience with chirpy, thocky sounds, the Gateron CJ will likely enhance your typing experience. Its unique sonic profile and impossibly smooth push feel cater to those who appreciate a rich and engaging tactile sensation while typing. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter feel with a bottom-out force of 54 grams, the Bsun Tomcat is your ideal choice. This switch provides a super smooth typing experience, making it a great fit for long typing sessions or gaming where quick keystrokes are essential. Though the Tomcat lacks the distinct sound profile of the CJ, it still offers a pleasant, resonant typing experience that can be particularly satisfying in environments where noise levels are a consideration. Ultimately, both switches have their merits; your decision should reflect whether you value a richer auditory experience or a lighter, buttery feel while typing.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more