TTC Gold Silver vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes clear that both offer distinct advantages suited to different typing preferences. The TTC Gold Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness and short travel distance, delivering a decisive bottom-out that enhances the tactile experience for those who favor speed and precision in their keystrokes. Its thocky, low-pitched sound signature complements its smooth actuation, making it ideal for gamers and typists who thrive on fluidity and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) boasts Ly stems that provide a super smooth typing experience, paired with a resonant sound profile that caters to users seeking a more satisfying auditory experience while typing. While both switches offer smooth actuation and appealing sound characteristics, the Gold Silver leans toward performance-driven responsiveness, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) emphasizes a richer sound experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Silver Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the TTC Gold Silver and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) are strikingly similar, with both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in both switches contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, which amplifies clarity and resonance. This makes both switches particularly suitable for users who are keen on a pronounced audio feedback while typing. Moreover, the translucency of the polycarbonate top allows for effective RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of both switches. Users looking for vibrant, illuminated key switches will find that both options provide similar visual and auditory experiences.

In contrast, the bottom housings diverge in the effect they impart to the typing experience. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which is renowned for its capacity to absorb sound better than harder materials. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a soft landing when keystrokes bottom out. The nylon's softer texture softens the sound, creating a harmonious balance to the crisper sounds produced by the polycarbonate tops. Consequently, while both switches share a high-quality typing experience through their polycarbonate tops, they equally produce a more muted and rounded auditory sensation from their nylon bottoms, which works in concert with the sharper tones from the tops.

Finally, when considering the overall impact of the materials on the typing experience, it is evident that both the TTC Gold Silver and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) provide a cohesive blend of sound characteristics. The precise and distinct sound attributed to the polycarbonate top housing merges seamlessly with the deep, absorbing qualities of the nylon bottom housing, resulting in a well-rounded typing experience. For users who value both auditory feedback and aesthetic appeal, these switches ultimately deliver comparable performance due to the shared materials and their unique sound profiles, proving that even subtle differences in housing characteristics yield similar results in user satisfaction.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Silver switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option, which could appeal to users who prefer less resistance for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Silver is unavailable, leaving a gap in understanding its full tactile experience. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) boasts a higher actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that caters to users who appreciate a heavier typing experience. Additionally, the Tomcat's bottom out force is measured at 64 grams, indicating a clear distinction in resistance when the key is fully pressed down. Therefore, while the Gold Silver offers a lighter touch, the Tomcat (Heavy) provides a firmer feel, making each switch suitable for different user preferences in typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the Gold Silver has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) extends slightly further at 3.6 mm. This makes the Gold Silver the shorter option by 0.1 mm. While both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Gold Silver may appeal to those seeking a more responsive feel, particularly among gamers who benefit from quicker actuation. On the other hand, if the additional depth of 0.1 mm provides a more satisfying tactile experience for the user, the Tomcat (Heavy) could be the preferred choice for those who appreciate a bit more heft in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches hinges on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch boasts a notably thocky and low-pitched acoustic profile. This creates a deep, rich sound that delivers a satisfying auditory experience when typing, reminiscent of a soft "thud" or "knock." It strikes a harmonious balance with a neutral sound quality, making it versatile enough for both personal and professional environments. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch remain unknown, so comparisons in this regard are not feasible. However, the resonance experienced with the Tomcat could imply a satisfying auditory experience, although specifics are lacking.

When considering the feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch excels with descriptors such as polished and silky. This means users can expect an exceptionally smooth typing experience, resulting from either high-quality materials or effective factory lubrication. The mild and subtle nature of the Gold Silver's feel further ensures a gentle typing experience, approachable for users of all types. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch's tactile and responsive feedback is described vaguely, leaving its specific qualities undetermined but possibly leaning toward a heavy feel due to its branding.

In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offers a compelling combination of a thocky sound and meticulously smooth feel, making it a strong choice for those seeking rapid responsiveness in their keyboard experience. The lack of detailed information regarding the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch means its auditory and tactile characteristics remain somewhat of a mystery. However, should both switches share a focus on smooth operation and pleasant auditory tones, users may find them similarly enjoyable in their mechanical typing journey.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, consider the kind of typing experience you desire and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard. The TTC Gold Silver is your best bet if you're looking for a rapid, responsive switch that emphasizes speed and smoothness. Its polished and silky feel allows for an incredibly fluid typing experience, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks—especially in situations where you want quick actuation and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile that enhances the overall tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more substantial feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) can be the better choice. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 64 grams, it provides a more pronounced feedback for those who appreciate a solid press while typing or gaming. Although the descriptions don't specify its sound profile, it generally leans toward a more traditional acoustic response. Thus, for environments where you might need more resistance or assurance in each keystroke—like in professional writing or long gaming sessions—the Tomcat (Heavy) can give you the satisfaction of a definitive action. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preferences in typing rhythm, sound, and the physical feel of the switches under your fingers.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more