HMX Deep Navy vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When choosing between the HMX Deep Navy and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches, both offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences and experiences. The Deep Navy switch is celebrated for its sharp sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to its full nylon construction and Ly stem. This switch appeals to users who prioritize auditory feedback and a refined tactile feel in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) also showcases the impressive Ly stem for a super smooth typing sensation, while boasting a resonant sound profile that many enthusiasts find satisfying. This switch may attract those who appreciate a more robust sound coupled with their seamless typing. Both switches deliver smooth, linear experiences, making either a solid choice, depending on individual preferences for sound and 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

HMX Deep Navy Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) in terms of housing materials, a clear contrast emerges between their top housings, while their bottom housings share a commonality. The Deep Navy utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic allows the housing to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In stark contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) employs a polycarbonate top housing, noted for its stiffer nature, which yields a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate not only influences the sound but also enhances the aesthetic appeal, particularly for RGB enthusiasts, as the material's translucence allows for efficient light diffusion.

On the other hand, both the Deep Navy and Tomcat (Heavy) feature nylon bottom housings, which create an interesting dynamic in their overall performance. The nylon bottom housing in each switch contributes to a sound characterized by a deeper and more full-bodied resonance, mirroring the sound signature of the Deep Navy’s top housing. Despite the sonic differences imparted by their respective top materials, the shared nylon bottom housing helps unify their auditory profiles, ensuring that both switches deliver a similar bottom-out sound experience. This structural cohesion amplifies the depth of experience when typing on either switch, lending an element of familiarity to users.

The interaction between these materials underscores the significance of housing composition in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the Deep Navy benefits from nylon to create a rich, immersive sound experience attributed to both its top and bottom housings, the Tomcat (Heavy) introduces contrasting sound qualities with its polycarbonate top housing while maintaining the nylon bottom housing’s depth. Thus, while the overall experience may differ in terms of sound sharpness, both switches ultimately provide a satisfying tactile experience thanks to the synergy between nylon bottom and either nylon or polycarbonate top materials. If users prefer a more vivid sound profile, they might gravitate towards the Tomcat, while those seeking a darker, more muted experience may find the Deep Navy more appealing.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, significant differences emerge in terms of actuation and bottom-out forces. The Deep Navy switch features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience and longer usage without fatigue. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom-out force of 64 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more robust and substantial feel when typing. This results in the Deep Navy being the lighter option overall, while the Tomcat is the heavier choice. Users seeking a balance between comfort and tactile feedback may find the different forces presented by these switches provide distinctly varied experiences.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same keypress depth, resulting in a similar tactile feedback and actuation feel. As such, for those who prioritize comfort and consistency in their typing or gaming experience, both switches will provide equivalent results in terms of travel distance and overall performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy switch showcases a rich and sharp acoustic quality, which can create a satisfying auditory experience during use. Its full nylon construction contributes to this unique sound signature, allowing it to resonate pleasantly with each keystroke. In comparison, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch also offers a resonant sound profile, suggesting that it too delivers a vibrant auditory experience. While both switches share this pleasing resonance, the exact tonal characteristics may differ slightly based on individual preferences and the specific keyboard setup used, including the choice of board and keycaps.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Deep Navy and Tomcat (Heavy) are designed for an exceptionally smooth typing experience thanks to their Ly stems. The smoothness offered by the Deep Navy is highlighted as a defining aspect of its appeal, making it a joy to type on without any noticeable friction. Similarly, the Tomcat (Heavy) is praised for its super smooth operation, indicating that users can expect a fluid keystroke without interruption. Both switches are likely to provide a similarly satisfying tactile experience, making either a worthy choice for those who prioritize smoothness in their typing.

In conclusion, both the HMX Deep Navy and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches offer a high-quality typing experience characterized by their smooth operation and pleasing sound profiles. While they may possess distinct acoustic and subjective qualities, the shared attributes of smoothness and resonance suggest that users will enjoy similar typing experiences with either option. Ultimately, your choice may come down to personal preference regarding sound nuances and aesthetic considerations within your keyboard build.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Deep Navy and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you are someone who favors a lighter touch with fast actuation for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Deep Navy switch, with its 45 grams of bottom-out force, may be the ideal choice for you. Its rich and sharp sound profile, combined with the silky smoothness of the Ly stem, offers a satisfying auditory and tactile experience that can enhance your enjoyment of typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial resistance while typing—perhaps for a more grounded feel or if you type with more force—the Tomcat (Heavy) switch’s 64-gram bottom-out force will cater to that preference, providing a firm, satisfying resistance. With its resonant sound profile and also featuring the Ly stem for smoothness, the Tomcat (Heavy) can be perfect for those who want a balance of comfort and feedback. In summary, choose the Deep Navy for an exhilarating, lightweight experience, especially in gaming and casual typing, while the Tomcat (Heavy) is your go-to for a more deliberate and tactile typing experience with its medium-heavy actuation force.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more