Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) present compelling options for those who prefer linear switches. The Glory Yellow is celebrated for its heavier feel within the Glory lineup, providing a satisfying keystroke with a comfortable travel distance that enhances the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) boasts Ly stems, which contribute to an exceptionally smooth tactile feel while also producing a resonant sound profile that can be quite appealing for some users. While both switches offer their unique advantages—such as the Glory Yellow's balanced weight and the Tomcat’s distinctive sound—your choice will largely depend on personal preferences and intended use. 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Yellow and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles during usage. The Glory Yellow boasts a nylon top housing, recognized for its softer consistency that absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. This material choice leads to a more muted resonance, producing a rounder sound profile that many users may find appealing for tasks demanding quieter operation or a more subdued acoustic environment. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties that deliver a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The inclusion of polycarbonate not only enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch but also supports RGB lighting applications due to its transparent nature, allowing for an aesthetically vibrant user experience.
Conversely, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, which cultivates a consistent sonic characteristic between the two. The nylon construction in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, much like the Glory Yellow's nylon top, creating a cohesive auditory experience when the key bottoms out. This means that while the top housing distinctions mark a divergence in sound quality, the bottom housing's shared nylon material ensures that the resulting bottom-out sound remains similar in fullness across both switch types. This synergy in bottom housing material can appeal to users looking for consistency in feedback and performance, regardless of the variances delivered by the top housings.
In considering the overall typing experience, the interplay between the different top and bottom housing materials of the two switches ultimately affects both the sound and feel delivered during operation. The Glory Yellow’s nylon top imparts a plush auditory quality, while its nylon bottom captures that deeper resonance when the key is pressed. On the opposite side, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a crispy, articulated sound profile with its polycarbonate top, yet maintains the foundational depth thanks to its nylon bottom. In essence, users can expect a satisfying tactile and auditory experience, albeit with distinct sound signatures originating from the top housing materials that set the two switches apart.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, it is evident that the Tomcat switch offers a heavier typing experience. The Glory Yellow switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Tomcat (Heavy) requires 55 grams to actuate, making the Tomcat slightly heavier and more demanding during use. However, the Glory Yellow's bottom out force is unknown, which means we cannot directly compare this aspect with the Tomcat's 64 grams, classified as medium-heavy. For users who prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing or extended gaming sessions, the Gateron Glory Yellow may be more suitable, whereas those seeking a more substantial push feel might opt for the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) for its heavier actuation force and definitive bottom out feel. Overall, the Tomcat is categorized as the heavier option, while the Glory Yellow is the lighter choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Glory Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option and offering a hearty depth that some users may prefer for a satisfying keystroke experience. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel. Consequently, those who enjoy a more abrupt action might favor the Tomcat switch, while those who value depth in their key presses may opt for the Gateron Glory Yellow. Ultimately, users will find that the Glory Yellow's longer travel distance provides a different tactile experience compared to the snappier feel of the Tomcat switch, allowing for distinct preferences based on individual typing styles.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch produces a pleasant auditory profile that many users find enjoyable, characterized by a more muted thock when compared to other mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch offers a resonant sound profile, which may be perceived as more pronounced and crisp during typing. However, it is essential to note that the overall sound experience can vary based on the choice of keyboard construction and keycap material, which can enhance or dampen these characteristics.
When considering feel, the Glory Yellow switch provides a smooth keystroke experience with a satisfying travel distance that contributes to a comfortable typing rhythm. This smoothness is complemented by its linear nature, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer a seamless keypress. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch also showcases a super smooth typing experience thanks to its Ly stems, which allows for effortless keystrokes. This commonality in smoothness between the two options offers users a similar tactile satisfaction, making either switch suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches deliver a delightful typing experience characterized by smooth keystrokes, they differ in their auditory profiles, with the Glory Yellow leaning towards a quieter sound and the Tomcat (Heavy) providing more resonance. Ultimately, your choice may depend on personal sound preferences, but both switches promise an enjoyable and satisfying feel while typing. Whether you gravitate toward the subtlety of the Glory Yellow or the dynamic resonance of the Tomcat (Heavy), you are likely to find satisfaction in either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding tactile feedback, actuation force, and sound profile. If you enjoy a lighter typing experience with an incredibly smooth keystroke, the Gateron Glory Yellow may be the right fit for you. This switch provides a pleasing travel distance and is perfect for long typing sessions, as it minimizes finger fatigue—ideal if you prioritize comfort and speed, especially for gaming or coding. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and satisfying bottom-out feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) is likely to be your go-to. With its 64-gram actuation force, this switch provides a medium-heavy resistance that many typists find gratifying, delivering a delightful resonance in sound. Thus, if you lean towards a sturdier typing experience coupled with a strong auditory feedback, the Tomcat (Heavy) can enhance your overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, your preference may depend on how you balance the desire for a lighter touch versus a more pronounced keystroke, making each switch a unique choice for different typing needs and styles.
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