TTC Gold Brown vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy). The Gold Brown is a tactile switch that strikes a fine balance between feedback and smoothness, offering a slight, satisfying bump that enhances typing accuracy while maintaining a softer sound profile suitable for quieter environments. Its moderate weightiness adds to the overall typing experience, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a tactile response without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is a linear switch that prioritizes a super smooth typing experience, utilizing Ly stems to eliminate unnecessary friction. This switch is known for its resonant sound profile, providing a distinct auditory feedback that can be particularly satisfying during rapid typing sessions. While the Gold Brown is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile feel and a more subdued sound, the Tomcat (Heavy) caters to users seeking a seamless and fluid keystroke experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches exhibit remarkably similar housing materials, both featuring polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings. The polycarbonate used in the top housing of both switches is noted for its stiffness, which results in a sharper, more resonant sound profile. This identical use of polycarbonate in both switches indicates that users can expect a clear and crisp auditory experience when engaging with the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, which will be enhanced seamlessly across both models. A shared characteristic in the construction of the top housing thus guarantees that the sound profile remains high-pitched and clear, enriching the overall typing experience.
In contrast, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both the Gold Brown and Tomcat (Heavy) is where the switches showcase their common ground, yet it introduces softer auditory qualities. Nylon is well-regarded in the keyboard community for its ability to absorb sound, providing a fuller and more robust sound profile during typing. The softness of nylon results in a duller and rounder acoustic effect that balances out the sharper notes contributed by the polycarbonate top housing. Since both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, users are assured of a deeper typing experience that offers a warm and muted tonal quality distinct to nylon materials.
Ultimately, although the top and bottom housings of the TTC Gold Brown and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) are made from the same materials, their unique combinations yield a cohesive auditory performance. The polycarbonate top contributes a bright sound during key releases, while the nylon bottom housing enhances the bottom-out sound and tactile feel when typing. This harmonious interaction between the sharper top housing and the softer bottom housing in both switches ensures that the user experiences a well-rounded and satisfying typing experience. Thus, while there may be a personal preference for one model over the other based on design or brand loyalty, the consistent material choices guarantee similar sound characteristics and tactile sensations across both the Gold Brown and Tomcat (Heavy) switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we find some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can influence user preference based on typing experience. Both switches have an identical actuation force of 55 grams, meaning they require the same amount of pressure to register a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly: the TTC Gold Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) has a marginally heavier bottom out force of 64 grams. This indicates that while the tactile feedback and initial actuation feel the same for both switches, the Tomcat switch will offer a slightly firmer sensation when pressed all the way down. Therefore, users who prefer a heavier feel might gravitate towards the Tomcat switch due to its higher bottom out force, while those who favor a lighter experience might find the Gold Brown's overall profile more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, which measures 3.6 mm. While the Gold Brown’s full 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper and more pronounced feedback that some users might find satisfying, the Tomcat (Heavy)'s 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who prefer quicker response times typical of shorter travel distances, such as gamers. This could lead to a more responsive feel, albeit one that might seem abrupt for those who enjoy the more substantial depth of the Gold Brown. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will largely depend on personal preference regarding depth and responsiveness in keyboard feel.
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 (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
When comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Gold Brown and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches, the Gold Brown presents a rounded and softer sound, which is pleasantly neutral. This makes it versatile, suitable for both casual and professional environments without being distracting. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) is characterized by a resonant sound profile, likely adding more auditory presence to your typing experience. While the exact decibel level or tonality of the Tomcat is not detailed, it implies a louder and more vibrant typing sound compared to the more muted characteristics of the Gold Brown.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switches excel with their mild, buttery, and polished tactile response. They deliver a gentle yet firm bump, making them approachable for both novices and seasoned typists. The keys feel refined, resulting in a seamless typing experience that balances comfort with tactile feedback. Without specific descriptions for the Tomcat (Heavy), it's difficult to draw a full comparison in this category; however, the mention of Ly stems suggests an exceptionally smooth keystroke, which could indicate a different but potentially enjoyable experience with less tactile feedback than the Gold Brown.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch provides a balanced sound and feel that caters to a wide range of users, making it a safe choice for various environments. While the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offers a resonant sound and hints at a smooth typing experience, the lack of detailed descriptors for its tactile feel leaves some aspects open to interpretation. If you're seeking a reliable switch, the Gold Brown's mild yet satisfying characteristics might be more aligned with your needs, while the Tomcat’s potential for smoothness could attract those seeking a linear option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you value a softer auditory experience and a balanced tactile sensation, or if you prefer a more resonant sound and an exceptionally smooth linear feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, selecting between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and use cases. If you're seeking a balance between tactile feedback and a soft sound profile, the Gold Brown is your best bet. Its slight bump offers enough feedback for typists who want to feel their keys without being overwhelmed, making it suitable for both home and work environments, especially if you're sharing a space where noise levels matter. Conversely, if your focus is on achieving a buttery-smooth typing experience with a stronger keystroke feeling, the Tomcat (Heavy) is the way to go. With its medium-heavy actuation force and resonant sound profile, this switch is ideal for those who appreciate a heavier feel and want a more assertive response when typing. Ultimately, consider how much feedback and sound you desire in your typing experience: go for Gold Brown for a balanced, mildly tactile sensation or choose the Tomcat (Heavy) for a rich, smooth linear experience that stands out.
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