Gateron CM vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both stand out as appealing linear options for typists and gamers alike, yet they offer distinctly different features and experiences. The Gateron CM captures attention with its full nylon housing that deviates from traditional polycarbonate designs, delivering a richer, deeper sound signature complemented by an impeccable factory lube job. Typists can expect a buttery-smooth glide and a bouncy typing experience thanks to the lengthened, dual-staged spring technology. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) leans into a smooth feel as well, crafted with Ly stems that provide an equally enjoyable typing experience. It, too, boasts a resonant sound profile, making it a delightful choice for those who cherish auditory feedback. With both options promising smooth keystrokes and engaging sound signatures, your choice may hinge on your personal preferences for tactile feedback and typing acoustics. 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 CM Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CM and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches present a notable contrast in their top housing materials, with the former utilizing nylon and the latter employing polycarbonate. Nylon, a classic choice for switch housings, is known for its soft texture which results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic of nylon enables it to effectively absorb sound, yielding a typing experience that feels warmer and more muted. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Tomcat (Heavy) creates a sharper, more resonant sound due to its stiffness. The clarity and higher pitch of the polycarbonate material contribute to a crisper acoustic profile, making it especially appealing for users looking for a more vibrant sound during typing.

When examining the bottom housings of both switches, it is interesting to note that both the Gateron CM and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) feature nylon materials. This shared composition implies a consistency in the auditory signature experienced through the bottom of the switches. Because nylon is softer and effective at dampening sound, users can expect a similar deeper and rounder sound profile from the bottom housing of both switches. In this case, the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and typing feel, which means that despite their differing top housings, the tactile experience when pressing the keys remains comparable.

Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron CM and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) are essential in shaping their sound profiles. Users seeking a rich and muted audio experience will appreciate the nylon top housing of the CM, while those preferring a clearer and crisper sound will gravitate towards the polycarbonate top housing of the Tomcat (Heavy). Nevertheless, since both switches share nylon for their bottom housings, they manage to offer a comparable tactile and auditory experience during key presses, allowing users to connect with both switches in a holistic manner despite their differences in the top housing materials.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch are quite similar, making both options conducive to users who prefer a medium-heavy typing experience. Both switches feature an actuation force of 55 grams, meaning they require the same amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke, which could result in a comparable feel during typing or gaming activities. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the CM switch having a bottom out force of 63.5 grams and the Tomcat (Heavy) switch with a marginally heavier bottom out force of 64 grams. This means that while both can be considered light to medium-heavy switches overall, the Gateron CM is the lighter option when it comes to the bottom out force. Users who enjoy a lighter feel may gravitate towards the CM switch, while those who prefer the more substantial push feel of the slightly heavier Tomcat switch might appreciate its characteristics more.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch have identical travel distances of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience the same amount of key travel for both switches. Since their travel distances are equal, you can expect similar results in terms of actuation feel and responsiveness when using either switch. This uniformity in travel distance is beneficial for those seeking a consistent typing experience regardless of the switch choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out with its rich and deep tonal qualities, characterized as “bassy” and “thocky.” This low-pitched sound profile is enhanced by the full nylon housing, which contributes to a satisfying auditory feedback upon keystroke. Each press resonates with a mellow, bass-heavy thud that makes for an enjoyable typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch does not have a specific sound profile provided, leaving its acoustic characteristics relatively unclear. However, it is noted that the Tomcat switch produces a resonant sound profile, suggesting that it may offer pleasant auditory feedback as well, potentially differing in depth or resonance from the CM.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM switches promise an exceptionally smooth experience, characterized by descriptors such as “buttery,” “polished,” and “creamy.” Each keystroke provides a seamless glide, thanks to factory lubing and the materials used, resulting in minimized friction during typing. The lengthened, dual-staged spring further enhances the experience by introducing a bouncy tactile feel, which many typists might find enjoyable. In comparison, no specific attributes of the feel of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches are described, leaving a gap in understanding how they would measure against the CM in terms of tactile experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch presents a rich auditory experience alongside a notably smooth and refined tactile sensation, making it an appealing option for those seeking both sound and feel. Meanwhile, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offers an unknown yet potentially resonant sound and lacks descriptive tactile features, leaving it open to interpretation for newcomers. Ultimately, while choosing between these two options, one could expect a satisfying performance with the CM switches due to their clarity in sound and feel, while the Tomcat would require further exploration to define its qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, your preferred typing experience and desired sound signature will be key factors. If you seek a smooth, buttery typing feel with a rich, bassy sound profile, the Gateron CM will likely be your go-to. Its nylon housing not only enhances durability but also contributes to the deeper acoustics that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional linear feel with a notably resonant sound, the Tomcat (Heavy) could be the better choice for you. Both switches feature a similar bottom-out force but differ in their acoustic signature and tactile sensations. Ultimately, if you value novelty and a unique typing experience, opt for the Gateron CM; whereas, if you desire a classic yet satisfying key press with enhanced resonance, then the Tomcat (Heavy) may suit your needs better.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more