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TTC Gold Brown vs. Bsun Tomcat

An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Brown and Bsun Tomcat offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown, characterized by its balanced performance, presents a tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback during typing, coupled with a moderate weightiness that many users find comforting. Its softer sound profile makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a quieter environment without sacrificing the tactile sensation that enhances typing accuracy. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switch is known for its linear design, featuring Ly stems that deliver an exceptionally smooth typing experience. The resonant sound profile of the Tomcat may appeal to users who prioritize fluid keystrokes over tactile feedback, making it ideal for gaming or extended typing sessions where smoothness is paramount. Both switches have their own unique advantages, yet, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

55g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

63g

Bottom-out force

54g

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

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Extended spring

Housing materials

The TTC Gold Brown and the Bsun Tomcat both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, highlighting a shared emphasis on producing a high-quality auditory experience. The polycarbonate's inherent stiffness leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. This common material choice not only provides consistency in sound but also enhances the visual appeal through translucency, making both switches ideal for RGB lighting applications. As a result, users can expect a similar auditory clarity and aesthetic experience when interacting with either switch, as both are designed to maximize the vibrant effects of customizable lighting.

In contrast, both the Gold Brown and the Tomcat employ nylon for their bottom housings, which illustrates a fundamental similarity that further influences sound quality. Nylon is known for its softer properties, allowing it to absorb sound waves, thereby generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material helps create a more rounded auditory experience, making each keystroke feel more comfortable and satisfying for typists. Since the bottom housing is crucial in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, the use of nylon in both switches ensures that users will enjoy a consistent tactile experience that is more muted compared to the sounds generated by the polycarbonate top.

Overall, while the two switches uniquely blend their materials to deliver distinct sound profiles, their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing fosters a cohesiveness in performance. The results will be similar in terms of auditory characteristics, as both switches benefit from a clear, resonant upper sound profile complemented by a deeper, fuller lower sound profile. Consequently, users can choose either the TTC Gold Brown or Bsun Tomcat with confidence, knowing that they will experience similar sound dynamics and tactile sensations, regardless of the specific model selected.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Gold Brown requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Tomcat is noticeably lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams. This weight difference reflects their intended user experiences; the Gold Brown's stronger push may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feel while typing, potentially offering a more satisfying experience for users who enjoy the feedback of a heavier switch. In contrast, the Tomcat's lighter force enhances comfort, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces fatigue. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches largely depends on individual preferences regarding tactile feedback versus ease of keystrokes.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Gold Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more in line with traditional switch designs, offering a deeper feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the Tomcat boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a more responsive option that may appeal to gamers who prefer quicker actions in their typing or gaming experience. Consequently, if you're looking for a more pronounced tactile feedback and a fuller depth, the Gold Brown is the better choice. On the other hand, for those who prioritize speed and rapid response, the Tomcat's shorter travel distance would be advantageous. Overall, the Gold Brown provides a longer travel distance, while the Tomcat offers a shorter one, aligning with users' preferences for either responsiveness or depth in their typing experience.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.

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 examining the sound characteristics of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, it is characterized by a neutral sound profile that features a rounded tone, providing a softer auditory feedback compared to many other mechanical switches. This makes it suitable for various environments, whether quiet or bustling, appealing to a wide spectrum of users from beginners to seasoned typists. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch showcases a resonant sound profile, though the specific details on how this resonates are not detailed. Given the differences in sound profiles, a user might find the Gold Brown to be more conducive to a quieter setting while the Tomcat might emanate a more pronounced auditory feedback depending on the factors such as the keyboard build and the keycap material chosen.

Regarding feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a complex experience. Its tactile bump provides just enough feedback without being overwhelming, resulting in an approachable typing experience that many typists find satisfying. The switch is described as mild, buttery, accented, and polished, which together create a smooth, fluid keystroke with a pleasant tactile sensation. With its medium level of tactility, it strikes a balance that appeals to a wide range of users. Conversely, the feel of the Tomcat linear switch is not explicitly detailed, but linear switches typically favor a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke without tactile feedback. This contrast implies that while the Gold Brown requires a bit of engagement, the Tomcat may provide an effortless glide which some users may prefer, especially for rapid key presses in gaming or typing scenarios.

In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch presents a well-rounded option with its soft sound and nuanced tactile response, making it a favorite among typists who appreciate feedback without aggression. The Bsun Tomcat linear switch, while not thoroughly evaluated in terms of tactile feel or sound specifics, likely caters to users seeking smoother key presses. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference—those who enjoy tactile feedback and a softer sound may lean toward the Gold Brown, while those who favor a linear, smooth typing experience might gravitate toward the Tomcat.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, your choice largely depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a balanced typing experience with a subtle tactile feedback, the Gold Brown is an excellent option. It offers a medium weight with a satisfying bump, making it ideal for a variety of environments, whether you're working in an office or gaming at home. Its neutral sound profile is suitable for both beginners and seasoned typists, allowing for a comfortable and approachable experience. On the other hand, if you seek a smooth, effortless typing feel and prefer a lighter actuation force, the Tomcat linear switch may be your better choice. Its low bottom-out force of 54 grams makes it well-suited for fast-paced gaming or extensive typing sessions where durability and fluidity matter. With a resonant sound profile, the Tomcat provides a unique auditory experience that can enhance your overall enjoyment of the keyboard. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to whether you favor tactile feedback and moderate resistance or a smoother, lighter keystroke that allows for speed and agility.

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