Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various options that cater to diverse typing experiences. The Jwick Ginger Milk switches are celebrated for their soft, pastel aesthetic and provide a delightful typing experience characterized by a silky smooth feel and a muted, snappy sound profile. Ideal for those who prefer a gentle yet responsive touch, these switches are categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Buttery,' making them a great choice for both casual typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches, utilizing Ly stems, promise an ultra-smooth typing experience complemented by a resonant sound profile. Though they lack the explicit categorization, their appeal lies in their smooth action and distinct auditory feedback, making them suitable for users who enjoy a lively typing atmosphere. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and settings, but 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Bsun Tomcat utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to similar sound characteristics in terms of auditory clarity and resonance. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, which enhances the crispness and sharpness of the sound profile when typing. This shared material choice means that users of both switches can expect a heightened sound experience, particularly when it comes to high-pitched tones. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for showcasing RGB lighting effects, providing an aesthetically pleasing visual experience regardless of the switch brand selected.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Ginger Milk and the Tomcat is made from nylon, a material that contributes a distinctively deeper and fuller sound profile to the typing experience. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and warmer acoustic signature. This similarity in bottom housing materials ensures that when users type on either switch, there will be a noticeable tactile satisfaction and a sound profile that is less sharp and more muted compared to those equipped with a stiffer bottom housing material. Therefore, both switches have been crafted to create a consistent experience by combining the benefits of polycarbonate and nylon.
The integration of polycarbonate and nylon in both the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Bsun Tomcat not only allows for an interesting interplay of sound characteristics but also emphasizes the importance of each housing's material in defining the overall typing experience. With the polycarbonate top contributing brightness and clarity during key releases while the nylon bottom offers warmth and depth when bottoming out, users will find that both switches invoke a balanced yet dynamic sound profile that is equally appealing. Ultimately, regardless of the differences in branding, both designs capitalize on the acoustic advantages provided by these selected materials to deliver a premium typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces can be observed. The Ginger Milk switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy, while the Tomcat switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This distinction means that the Tomcat requires less force to register a keystroke, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ginger Milk's heavier forces may appeal to those who seek a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding weight and feedback during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the Ginger Milk measures 3.7 mm, while the Tomcat is slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This makes the Ginger Milk the better option for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes, as it offers a fuller tactile experience. Conversely, the Tomcat, with its shorter travel distance, may be preferable for gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as it facilitates faster actuation. While neither switch is particularly deep when compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, they illustrate the current trend toward shorter distances. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for responsiveness versus a more substantial feel while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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 it comes to sound, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a muted, snappy sound profile that leans towards a neutral characteristic. This balanced sound makes it versatile for various environments, whether in a quiet office or at home, catering well to both beginners and experienced typists. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch features a resonant sound profile, which can produce a more pronounced acoustic feedback. The Tomcat's sound may appeal to users who enjoy a richer auditory experience when typing. However, it's essential to note that sound perception can vary significantly based on factors such as the choice of keyboard housing and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Ginger Milk switches are known for their silky smoothness and a buttery typing experience, providing a seamless keystroke that feels both soft and approachable. This smoothness contributes to a comfortable and enjoyable typing sensation, making these switches suitable for extended use without fatigue. On the other hand, the Tomcat switches feature Ly stems designed for a super smooth typing experience, indicating that they may also provide a fluid feel. However, specific details about the tactile feedback or resistance during keystrokes for the Tomcat are not available, leaving some uncertainty in direct comparison.
In conclusion, both the Jwick Ginger Milk and Bsun Tomcat linear switches offer unique sound and feel experiences for those exploring mechanical keyboards. While the Ginger Milk is characterized by its muted sound and buttery smoothness, the Tomcat provides a resonant auditory experience with its smooth stem design. Although there are differences in their sound profiles, both switches are likely to deliver a satisfying typing experience overall, depending on individual preferences and the specific keyboard setup. Users seeking a mellow and adaptable switch may gravitate toward the Ginger Milk, while those desiring a more pronounced sound could find the Tomcat appealing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a switch with a bit more resistance, the Ginger Milk, with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, provides a tactile, buttery feel and a muted, snappy sound. This makes it an excellent option if you enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing, especially if your work involves extended typing sessions or gaming where you might appreciate the sturdiness and control it offers. On the other hand, if you lean toward a lighter touch, the Bsun Tomcat, with its medium-light bottom out force of 54 grams, might be better suited for you. These switches deliver a super smooth typing experience that melds well with fast-paced typing or gaming, while their resonant sound profile adds a unique character. In summary, choose the Ginger Milk if you value a heavier, buttery experience with a neutral sound, and go for the Tomcat if you prefer a lighter feel with a smooth and resonant sound that enhances your typing speed and enjoyment. The right choice ultimately hinges on your typing style and the context in which you use your keyboard.
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