HMX Gravel vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Gravel and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both present compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, boasting a medium-light actuation force that offers a responsive, effortless typing experience. This switch caters to those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for typists and gamers alike. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) features Ly stems designed for an ultra-smooth typing experience, enhanced by a resonant sound profile that adds a unique auditory dimension to every keystroke. This switch may appeal to users looking for a solid, satisfying feedback with a more pronounced sound, ideal for those who enjoy a tactile element in their typing. While both switches share the linear design ethos, their unique attributes lend themselves to different user preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you determine which switch will best suit your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The HMX Gravel and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar auditory experience characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared material choice signifies that both switches facilitate clarity and resonance in sound output, a crucial aspect for users keen on achieving a clean and pronounced keystroke feedback. The similarities extend beyond sound, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches in illuminated setups. Consequently, users looking for a lively visual component combined with crisp audio will find both switches equally enticing thanks to their common housing material.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both the Gravel and the Tomcat (Heavy) is made from nylon, which contrasts significantly with the polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is celebrated for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory effect when typing. This characteristic provides a softer damping quality which contributes to a rounder sound, contrasting with the high clarity delivered by the polycarbonate top. The combination of the two materials means that while users will experience a pronounced impact when bottoming out due to the nylon's elasticity, the initial sound from a keypress will retain a sharper tone from the polycarbonate top, creating a harmonious balance between vibrancy and depth.
Overall, despite the differences in the bottom housing materials, the HMX Gravel and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) create a cohesive yet multi-dimensional typing experience. The dual-material design—a blend of polycarbonate and nylon—ensures that while users can expect clarity and brightness from the sound profile, they also benefit from the warmth and richness typically associated with nylon. This synergy sets both switches apart by providing a compelling mix of auditory qualities, catering to diverse user preferences while maintaining an overall consistency in performance. Hence, users can anticipate similar results in terms of sound clarity and fullness, making either switch a sound choice depending on their individual priorities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences emerge. The HMX Gravel features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, particularly beneficial for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, which caters to users who like a more substantial push feel during typing. Consequently, while the Gravel allows for quicker and less demanding keystrokes, the Tomcat provides more resistance, which some users may find preferable for tactile feedback. Overall, the Gravel is the lighter option, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) is the heavier choice, offering distinct experiences based on personal preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressed, the Gravel's switch will travel a minimal length shorter than that of the Tomcat (Heavy), resulting in slightly quicker response times for the Gravel. For gamers or users who favor rapid keystrokes, the Gravel's shorter travel distance may offer the more efficient experience they seek. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) provides a more substantial 3.6 mm travel, which could appeal to those who prefer a deeper, more deliberate keypress for typing or gaming, thus making it feel less abrupt. Ultimately, users can select the switch that best fits their tactile preferences, whether they prioritize the faster response of the Gravel or the more pronounced depth of the Tomcat (Heavy).
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 considering the sound profile of both switches, the HMX Gravel is known to deliver a more subdued and gentle auditory experience, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a quieter typing environment. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch produces a resonant sound profile, suggesting a more pronounced acoustic feedback with each keystroke. This difference in sound can significantly affect the overall typing experience, particularly in shared or noise-sensitive spaces where the Gravel may provide a more discreet option while the Tomcat could appeal to users who enjoy a more sonorous typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switch excels with its exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, featuring a medium-light actuation force that enhances responsiveness and ease of use. This allows for a comfortable and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) also offers a super smooth typing experience thanks to its Ly stems, although the "heavy" designation suggests a potentially heftier actuation force which may cater to those who prefer a more deliberate keypress. This can create a different engagement experience that emphasizes control over speed, reflecting varied preferences among users.
In conclusion, the HMX Gravel linear switch is characterized by its smooth and light feel, alongside a quieter sound profile, best suited for those who value a delicate touch and a more restrained acoustic footprint. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch offers a resonant sound and a smooth feel, potentially appealing to typists who enjoy a more audible feedback along with a slightly heavier actuation. Depending on individual preferences, either switch could provide a rewarding typing experience, although they cater to slightly different aspects of tactile and auditory delight.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light and responsive feel that allows for effortless typing, the Gravel is your best bet. Its 50-gram bottom out force provides a refined, smooth experience, making it an excellent choice for fast typists or those who enjoy a more delicate touch. Additionally, if you're seeking a quieter option without compromising on the quality of the tactile feedback, the Gravel's sound profile leans towards a softer, more muted tone. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and grounded feel while typing, the Tomcat (Heavy) will serve you well with its heavier bottom out force of 64 grams. This switch delivers a satisfying resistance that can enhance your typing accuracy, making it an ideal match for those who enjoy a tactile experience with a resonant sound profile. Consider your typing style, the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard, and whether you favor light and smooth versus heavy and tactile feedback to make the best choice between these two high-quality switches.
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