TTC Flaming Purple vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two contenders that stand out in the realm of linear switches are the TTC Flaming Purple and the Bsun Tomcat. The TTC Flaming Purple is celebrated for its unique audio character, offering a neutral sound profile with a pleasingly bassy undertone, which can create an engaging auditory experience while typing. Its lightweight actuation, with a bottom-out force of just 47g, allows for swift keystrokes, making it a fantastic option for both enthusiasts and everyday typists seeking a smooth and effortless feel. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switch is renowned for its Ly stems, designed to deliver a super smooth typing experience that many users appreciate. While both switches feature resonant sound profiles, the Tomcat may offer a slightly different tactile experience that caters to those who prioritize a seamless glide. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference, but understanding their distinctive characteristics can greatly aid in your decision-making process. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Purple and the Bsun Tomcat share a notable similarity in their top housing material, which is made from polycarbonate. This choice of material results in a sound profile that is characterized by sharper, higher-pitched tones, known for delivering a crisp and clear audio experience. Both switches leverage polycarbonate’s inherent stiffness, allowing for sound waves to resonate in a way that enhances clarity. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes these switches particularly advantageous for customization with RGB lighting, as it allows the colors to shine through prominently, creating an aesthetically pleasing look. As a result, users can expect the same level of sound quality and visual appeal from both the Flaming Purple and Tomcat when it comes to their top housings.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the TTC Flaming Purple and Bsun Tomcat are also made from nylon, which introduces a different sonic characteristic to the typing experience. Nylon is well-regarded in the mechanical switch community for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound than the firmer polycarbonate, leading to a more subdued yet rounded audio output. This means that while the top housing contributes to the initial sound upon release, the bottom housing significantly influences the overall feel and the bottom-out sound of each keystroke. The result is a well-balanced combination of both top and bottom housing materials, promoting a nuanced typing experience uniquely tailored by the properties of nylon and polycarbonate.
Ultimately, both the TTC Flaming Purple and Bsun Tomcat employ the same materials in their respective housings, resulting in coherent outcomes regarding sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing enhances resonance and brightness, while the nylon bottom housing provides warmth and depth. Together, these materials work in tandem, ensuring users benefit from a harmonious blend of auditory qualities when utilizing these switches. The clear differentiation in sound characteristics allows users to enjoy a comprehensive typing experience, regardless of the switches they opt for, making them equally appealing choices in the mechanical keyboard landscape.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Flaming Purple features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Tomcat requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This difference implies that while both switches provide a relatively similar typing experience, the Flaming Purple is better suited for those seeking a more effortless key press, while the Tomcat may cater to individuals who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback as they type. Thus, if you prefer lighter switches for comfort during prolonged use, the TTC Flaming Purple would be the preferable option, whereas the Bsun Tomcat provides a slightly firmer push for those who favor a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. With this equal travel distance, both switches will deliver comparable key press responsiveness and feel, allowing for a consistent typing experience. As a result, users can confidently choose between the two options without worrying about significant differences in travel distance affecting their performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
The Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When considering the sound profiles of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Bsun Tomcat linear switches, the Flaming Purple stands out with its bassy and low-pitched characteristics. This switch delivers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, creating an engaging auditory experience that adds a poppy undertone to each stroke. The resonant nature of this switch not only enhances its overall sound profile but also provides a clean and sharp auditory feedback. On the other hand, while the Bsun Tomcat switches are noted for their resonant sound profile, specific descriptors for their sound characteristics were not provided. This leaves some ambiguity in direct comparison, but one might expect that both switches can provide a satisfying auditory experience, although the Flaming Purple offers more detailed descriptions.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Flaming Purple excels with its feathery actuation and easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate each key. This light actuation force promotes a comfortable typing experience that is forgiving during extended sessions, reducing finger fatigue considerably. The silky smoothness of this switch further enhances the typing experience, allowing seamlessly effortless strokes. In contrast, the specifics of the Tomcat's feel were not detailed, which makes it difficult to compare directly, but the intention is usually to provide a smooth typing experience as well. However, without additional information, one can only speculate on how closely it aligns with the Flaming Purple’s qualities.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a distinct advantage with its descriptive sound and feel qualities that highlight its suitability for both typing and gaming. While the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is acknowledged for its resonant sound, the lack of detail on its sound and tactile sensation leaves it a bit less defined in comparison. For a newcomer, the Flaming Purple presents a compelling choice, especially if you prioritize a rich auditory experience combined with an exceptionally light and smooth typing feel. The Tomcat may still offer an enjoyable experience, but the clarity and appeal of the Flaming Purple's characteristics make it a more alluring option at first glance.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple or the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, it's essential to weigh your preferences and typing habits. If you’re looking for a switch with a light bottom-out force of 47 grams that allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, the Flaming Purple may be your ideal choice. Its bassy sound profile adds character to your typing experience, making it perfect for both casual typing and extended gaming sessions without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with a medium-light bottom-out force of 54 grams and value a super smooth typing experience, the Tomcat is likely more suitable for you. Its smooth actuation can enhance your efficiency during intense gaming or fast-paced tasks. Overall, your decision should reflect your personal typing style—opt for the Flaming Purple for a lighter, more responsive feel and an engaging sound signature, or go for the Tomcat for a balanced actuation and a silky-smooth experience.
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