Huano Grape Orange vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Grape Orange is renowned for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, which provides an effortless typing experience, making it an ideal choice for those who engage in extended typing sessions and seek comfort without fatigue. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) features Ly stems that enhance the smoothness of each keystroke, coupled with a resonant sound profile that some users find satisfying and rewarding. This switch might appeal to those who prefer a bit more heft in their typing experience, providing a tactile satisfaction that can make typing feel more deliberate. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on your personal preferences, as one favors ease and lightness while the other delivers a weightier and more resonant 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

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Huano Grape Orange and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to a similar auditory experience characterized by a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a clear and resonant sound that enhances the overall performance of the switch. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting applications, as it allows light to pass through effectively, creating an aesthetically pleasing illumination that can elevate the user experience. Therefore, when it comes to the upper sound characteristics and visual effects, both switches deliver comparable results due to their shared use of polycarbonate.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the Grape Orange and Tomcat (Heavy) are constructed from nylon, a material known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, which is a significant distinction from the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top. The nylon’s softer properties help dampen vibrations, resulting in a rounder overall experience. Consequently, while both switches aim for distinct auditory effects, the bottom housing materials cultivate different sound qualities—where polycarbonate contributes to higher frequencies and clarity, nylon rounds out the auditory experience with depth and warmth.

When the qualities of both housing materials are combined, users experience a well-rounded auditory result that encompasses the precision of the polycarbonate top and the warmth of the nylon bottom. Each switch's characteristics manifest differently during usage; the polycarbonate top influences the sound during release, while the nylon bottom shapes the sound and feel upon actuation. Despite the sonic contrasts, these materials create an overall balance that enhances typing performance, allowing both the Huano Grape Orange and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches to cater to users who appreciate a variety of auditory profiles. As a result, switching between these two options will provide a unique yet familiar typing experience, thanks to their similar top housing and complementary bottom housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a better option for users who prioritize comfort and endurance during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. This means that the Tomcat switch provides a firmer resistance, which may appeal to individuals seeking a stronger push feel. Thus, the Grape Orange is the lighter switch, while the Tomcat (Heavy) is the heavier option, resulting in distinct experiences based on user preferences. Overall, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether one favors a lighter touch or a more robust actuation resistance.

Travel distance

The travel distance for both the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is identical at 3.6 mm. This means that users will experience the same keypress depth when actuating either switch, resulting in comparable tactile feedback and engagement. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key sensitivity and responsiveness, thus emphasizing that the choice between these two switches may hinge on other characteristics such as feel, weight, or sound rather than on travel distance alone.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Huano Grape Orange switch is known for its very quiet operation – a characteristic that complements its ultra-light actuation force of 40g, making it ideal for a distraction-free typing environment. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch presents a more resonant sound profile, which can contribute to a more tactile auditory feedback when typing. The difference in sound can be attributed to design facets such as the materials used and the construction of the switches, with the Tomcat likely producing a slightly more noticeable auditory response during activation. However, both switches should ultimately provide a unique audio experience that will still be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange switch offers an exceptionally light and smooth typing experience, making it perfect for long typing sessions without significant fatigue. Its ultra-low actuation force allows for minimal resistance, enhancing the sensation of quick key presses. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a notable smoothness as well due to its Ly stems, but is designed for a heavier tactile experience that could provide a satisfying feedback for those who prefer more resistance while typing. The differing actuation forces create distinct typing experiences, catering to different preferences.

In summary, both the Huano Grape Orange and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches present unique qualities that appeal to various typing styles. The Grape Orange excels in providing a super light and quiet experience, suitable for extended usage, while the Tomcat (Heavy) delivers a more resonant auditory feedback with a heavier actuation force for those who appreciate a bit more engagement in their keystrokes. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches will ultimately yield satisfying typing results, but the best choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a light touch or a more robust tactile sensation.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch primarily depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a light and effortless typing experience, particularly during long writing sessions, the Grape Orange with its low actuation force of 40 grams is definitely the better choice for you. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams also means less strain on your fingers, allowing for comfort during extended use. Additionally, if you appreciate a more subdued sound profile while typing, the Grape Orange may suit you well. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers more resistance and a satisfying tactile feel combined with a resonant sound profile, the Tomcat (Heavy) would be more appropriate. With its higher actuation force of 64 grams, it provides a more significant feedback that can enhance your typing experience, especially if you often engage in gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. Thus, consider both the actuation force and the desired sound and feel when deciding which switch aligns best with your typing preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more