TTC Flame Red vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choices can greatly influence both your typing experience and the overall aesthetic of your setup. The TTC Flame Red switch stands out not only for its performance but also for its stunning light diffuser, making it a prime choice for users who want a backlit or RGB keyboard. Its weighty smoothness and clacky sound provide a satisfying tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience, categorizing it as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch is renowned for its Ly stems, which deliver an exceptionally smooth feel with a resonant sound profile that some typists might prefer for its unique auditory feedback. While both switches offer the linear feel favored by many gamers and typists for their lack of tactile bumps or clicks, their distinct characteristics cater to different preferences. 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 Flame Red Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), significant distinctions can be drawn from their top housing compositions. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent properties of nylon, being a softer plastic, enable it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound emitted when a key is released, making it particularly advantageous for users who prefer a more articulate auditory feedback during typing.

Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the bottom housings of both the Flame Red and the Tomcat (Heavy) are made from nylon. This similarity means that both switches will share the characteristic of producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressed down. As nylon is a softer plastic, it will contribute to a more muted and rounded auditory experience for the bottom-out sound, irrespective of the different sound signature influenced by their top housings. Consequently, while the tactile experience and acoustic feedback during key releases diverge significantly due to their top materials, the overall feel of the switch when bottomed out remains consistent, thanks to the nylon bottom housing.

Ultimately, the combination of differing top housings and identical bottom housings leads to a unique yet complementary auditory experience across the TTC Flame Red and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy). While the Flame Red’s nylon top emphasizes a subdued, deep sound profile, the Tomcat’s polycarbonate top adds clarity and brightness. However, both switches will provide a similar depth in sound upon bottoming out due to their nylon lower sections. For users seeking a balance of sound qualities, the distinct top materials paired with identical bottom materials ensure that tough decision comes down to personal preference in sound articulation versus warmth in sound, demonstrating the systematic interplay between different housing materials in mechanical switches.

Weight

The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch differ significantly in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying user preferences. The Flame Red features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially for extended use during work or gaming. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feedback. This means that users looking for a lighter switch would benefit from the TTC Flame Red, while those seeking a stronger push feel should opt for the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy). The differences in weight between these switches highlight the importance of selecting a switch that aligns with one's typing style and preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the Flame Red offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) provides a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm indicates that the Flame Red switch allows for a deeper press, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback when typing. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, could be better suited for gamers or users who prioritize quicker response times, as the reduced distance facilitates faster actuation. In terms of travel distance, the Flame Red is the longer option, while the Tomcat (Heavy) is the shorter switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: users seeking a more pronounced keypress might lean towards the Flame Red, whereas those looking for speed and responsiveness may opt for the Tomcat (Heavy).

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Flame Red and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches, the Flame Red is characterized by a neutral sound. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a balanced sound profile, making it versatile and suitable for a variety of settings, whether at home or in a professional environment. The clacky sound profile contributes to a pleasant auditory experience, especially for those who appreciate a bit of acoustic feedback during typing. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Tomcat (Heavy) is currently unknown, which makes it difficult to draw direct comparisons. It's important to note that the ultimate sound produced by either switch will also be influenced by the choice of keyboard, the type of keycaps used, and external factors such as the environment.

When it comes to feel, the TTC Flame Red offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild descriptor indicates a gentler interaction compared to other switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for a wide range of users. The polished nature of the switch leads to a smooth and refined feel, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, specific details about the feel of the Tomcat (Heavy) switch are not available, which makes it challenging to provide a comparative analysis.

Overall, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a switch that combines a pleasing sound and refined feel. It excels in offering a smooth typing experience that is visually enhanced by its dazzling light diffuser, making it ideal for backlit and RGB keyboards. While the Tomcat (Heavy) may promise its own unique characteristics, without additional details, it's difficult to gauge how it aligns with the overall qualities of the Flame Red. Therefore, if you're in the market for a linear switch that provides a reliable and enjoyable typing experience, the Flame Red stands out as a well-rounded option, while the Tomcat (Heavy) may require further examination once more information becomes available.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch depends largely on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter typing experience that still offers a satisfying tactile feedback, the Flame Red would be your go-to option. With its medium-light actuation force of 54 grams, it lends itself well to both prolonged typing and gaming sessions, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maximize comfort over long durations. Additionally, its neutral sound profile and stunning light diffuser are perfect for creating visually appealing setups, especially if you enjoy RGB lighting. On the other hand, if you desire a heavier switch that adds a bit more resistance, the Tomcat (Heavy) is worth considering. With a bottom-out force of 64 grams, it provides a firmer feel that can enhance typing accuracy for those who prefer more feedback and sturdiness in their keystrokes. The resonant sound profile and smooth Ly stems make it a great option for those who prioritize a robust and satisfying auditory experience, especially in a busy or shared workspace. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your unique needs—light and smooth for comfort, or heavy and firm for precision.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more