Gateron Glory Red vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches for your typing or gaming needs, the Gateron Glory Red and Bsun Tomcat linear switches stand out as compelling options. The Glory Red switches are celebrated for their lightweight feel and smooth keystroke, providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience that many users appreciate. Their pleasant travel distance makes them particularly appealing for those who type extensively or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches are distinguished by their Ly stems, which contribute to an exceptionally smooth typing experience complemented by a resonant sound profile. This can create a satisfying auditory feedback for users who enjoy a more dynamic feel while typing or gaming. Both switches deliver their unique advantages, making the choice between them a matter of personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Red Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Gateron Glory Red and the Bsun Tomcat, a significant difference can be observed in the top housing materials used. The Glory Red switch features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and more muted sound profile. This characteristic comes from nylon being a softer plastic, which absorbs sound effectively, leading to a rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Tomcat utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is structurally stiffer and consequently generates a higher-pitched, crisper sound. The transparency of polycarbonate also allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing for users who enjoy illuminated keyboards. Thus, the differences in top housing materials directly influence the tonal quality and auditory feedback of each switch, highlighting a unique aspect of each design.

Conversely, both switches agree on the use of nylon for their bottom housings. This choice means that both the Gateron Glory Red and the Bsun Tomcat share similar auditory qualities when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. Nylon's softer traits cause it to absorb more sound vibrations, offering a deeper and fuller experience regardless of the top housing variation. Therefore, while the top housings present clear distinctions, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housings ensures that users will experience a similarly rich and muted sound profile upon key activation, emphasizing the importance of bottom housing materials in dictating the tactile feedback and sound.

Ultimately, the differing top housing materials in the Gateron Glory Red and Bsun Tomcat create a pronounced contrast in auditory profiles, with nylon leaning towards a deep sound while polycarbonate introduces sharpness. However, the shared nylon bottom housing serves as a unifying feature that delivers a cohesive tactile experience. This blend of materials allows users to enjoy diverse auditory feedback based on their typing habits while still benefiting from the rich and rounded sound characteristics inherent in both switches. Thus, one can attain a unique typing experience by considering how the distinct properties of the top housing reflect on the overall auditory and tactile outcomes.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch to the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users will experience a similar level of resistance when triggering a keystroke. However, the Tomcat switch features a bottom out force of 54 grams, which gives it a heavier feel when fully pressed down, whereas the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unknown. This means that the Tomcat switch is likely to provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Glory Red may allow for a lighter touch throughout extended typing or gaming sessions, assuming it has an undetermined bottom out force that is less than 54 grams. Overall, those who prefer lighter switches for prolonged usage might lean towards the Gateron Glory Red, while users who enjoy a more robust push might favor the Bsun Tomcat.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience a similar key press depth when using either switch. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches provide comparable tactile feedback and overall performance, making them equally suitable for those who prefer linear switches that deliver a consistent feel in their typing experience. As a result, individuals can expect nearly identical results in terms of key actuation and responsiveness from both the Glory Red and the Tomcat switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Glory Red linear switch produces a sound profile that is relatively quiet and discreet, making it suitable for environments where low noise is desirable. The smooth travel of the key contributes to a subtle auditory experience with minimal clacking, allowing for an unobtrusive typing sound that won’t disturb others nearby. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is noted for its resonant sound profile. While still on the quieter side compared to tactile or clicky switches, the Tomcat's sound can resonate slightly more due to its construction and materials, leading to a richer acoustic feedback that may appeal to users looking for a bit more character in the sound of their keystrokes.

When it comes to feel, the Glory Red switch is celebrated for its smooth keystroke combined with a pleasing travel distance. This creates an enjoyable typing experience that enables effortless key presses without interruption. The Tomcat switch, on the other hand, is designed with Ly stems, which provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience as well. Both switches effectively eliminate any tactile bump, allowing for a fluid motion throughout the keystroke, making them suitable for users who prefer uninterrupted, linear transitions from key to key.

Overall, both the Gateron Glory Red and Bsun Tomcat linear switches cater to users seeking smooth and quiet typing experiences, albeit with some differences in acoustics. The Glory Red excels in creating a subtle sound while providing a satisfying travel distance, whereas the Tomcat offers a bit more resonance in sound, enhancing the acoustic profile. Ultimately, both switches ensure that newcomers can enjoy a comfortable and efficient typing experience, whether they favor the understated charm of the Glory Red or the mildly resonant character of the Tomcat.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, your choice should be guided by your personal preferences for force, feel, and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter keystroke that offers seamless travel, the Gateron Glory Red is a fantastic option, especially if you're looking for an enjoyable and effortless typing experience. This switch shines for users who appreciate a smooth and perhaps quieter operation, making it a great choice for both gaming and extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance with a medium-light touch and an engaging auditory profile, the Bsun Tomcat could be the better option. Its Ly stems provide a super smooth actuation, and the resonant sound adds a character that many users find appealing. Overall, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a lighter, smoother experience or a slightly heavier feel with a more distinctive sound.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more