Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Bsun Tomcat stand out as two excellent options for linear switch enthusiasts, each catering to different preferences and environments. The Honey Bean is cherished for its light, feathery action and silent operation, making it an ideal choice for office settings or shared spaces where noise reduction is a priority. Its easy-to-press feel offers a delightful typing experience without the distraction of loud key presses. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat boasts super smooth typing, enhanced by its Ly stems that create a resonant sound profile. While it may not be as muted as the Honey Bean, many users appreciate the satisfying auditory feedback that can accompany their typing sessions. Both switches promise a unique experience, catering to different needs in terms of sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Jerrzi Honey Bean Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$4.00

$3.59 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Bsun Tomcat, it becomes evident that they possess distinct acoustic characteristics due to the differences in their top housing materials. The Honey Bean features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Tomcat utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is celebrated for producing a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction is attributed to the inherent properties of the materials: POM is relatively softer, contributing to a more subdued audio experience, while polycarbonate’s rigidity allows for enhanced clarity and resonance. Therefore, the choice of top housing material in both switches results in varied auditory outcomes when typing.

The bottom housings of these switches continue to showcase this contrast in sound profiles, albeit with different yet complementary effects. The Honey Bean employs a POM bottom housing, which, similar to its top counterpart, promotes a deeper and muted sound. Meanwhile, the Tomcat’s bottom housing is crafted from nylon, a material recognized for its capacity to absorb sound, yielding a fuller and more rounded acoustic experience. Here again, the different materials impact the sound profile, with POM providing consistency in sound characteristics throughout the switch, whereas nylon’s sound-absorbing properties contribute additional depth to the overall auditory experience.

While the Jerrzi Honey Bean and Bsun Tomcat showcase unique materials and sound profiles, both switches can still achieve balanced audio results. The combination of POM housings in the Honey Bean, paired with the bottom housing's properties, renders a consistently muted sound. In comparison, the Tomcat's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom work together to create a blend of crispness and depth, delivering a well-rounded typing experience. Ultimately, despite their differing materials, both switches can achieve desirable sound outputs by leveraging the respective strengths of each housing type, affirming the significance of material selection in the craft of keyboard switches.

Weight

When comparing the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch with the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and available bottom-out specifications. The Honey Bean switch features an actuation force of 42 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Tomcat's actuation force of 45 grams. This difference in actuation force suggests that the Honey Bean may be more suitable for prolonged typing sessions, easing strain during extended use. However, the bottom-out force of the Honey Bean is unknown, while the Tomcat has a bottom-out force of 54 grams, classified as medium-light. This means that while both switches require a reasonable amount of force to actuate, the Tomcat provides a more substantial feedback when fully pressed down. In a scenario where both bottom-out forces are essential, the Honey Bean might not perform as expected in terms of feedback when it reaches its full travel distance. Ultimately, the Tomcat is the heavier of the two switches, providing a firmer typing experience, while the Honey Bean caters to those who prefer a lighter touch for less fatigue during long use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the Honey Bean offers a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Tomcat has a slightly shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you choose the Honey Bean switch, you will experience a more pronounced key press depth compared to the Tomcat. For users who appreciate a hearty depth and a more deliberate feel, the Honey Bean would be the better option. Conversely, the Tomcat, being the shorter switch, caters to those who prefer quicker responsiveness, often favored by gamers. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances that have become prevalent in modern key switches, offering a competitive edge in speed and tactile feedback for different user preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound characteristics of the Jerrzi Honey Bean switch are notably muted, creating a softer acoustic profile that makes them ideal for quiet environments like offices or shared spaces. This muted quality minimizes the typical mechanical keystroke noise, allowing for a serene typing experience that won't disturb others nearby. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch possesses a resonant sound profile, which suggests a fuller, potentially more pronounced auditory feedback during use. While the specifics of the Tomcat's sound weren't provided, the inherent differences in sound signature imply that users seeking a quieter operation might lean towards the Honey Bean, whereas those who appreciate a richer sound while typing might find the Tomcat appealing.

When it comes to feel, the Honey Bean switches provide an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience. Described as easy-to-press and feathery, they require minimal force to activate, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions due to reduced finger fatigue. This gentle resistance enhances comfort, particularly for tasks requiring extensive text input. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the Bsun Tomcat switches isn't specified, leaving a gap in direct comparison. However, the smooth action highlighted in their design suggests they may still offer a pleasant typing experience, though the specifics of their actuation force or tactile feedback remain unknown.

In summary, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch stands out for its silent operation and extraordinarily light feel, making it an excellent choice for users in noise-sensitive environments. Meanwhile, the Bsun Tomcat's resonance in sound and focus on smooth typing may cater to users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, while the Honey Beans excel in quietness and comfort, the Tomcats might attract those who appreciate a more dynamic sound experience. Depending on individual preferences, users can expect different results from these switches, making it essential to choose based on specific needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and the environment in which you plan to use them. If you prioritize a super soft, easy-to-press experience and require a quiet typing solution, the Honey Bean switch will serve you well, especially in office settings or shared spaces where noise is a concern. Its muted sound profile and light actuation force make it perfect for extended typing sessions, minimizing finger fatigue and allowing for prolonged productivity. On the other hand, if you seek a medium-light feel coupled with smooth action and a more resonant sound profile, the Tomcat switch is an excellent choice. This switch provides a balance of feedback and sound that can enhance the tactile enjoyment of typing and gaming alike, making it suitable for those who appreciate a bit more presence in their key presses. Ultimately, the best switch for you will align with how you intend to use your keyboard and your personal preferences for sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Jerrzi Honey Bean Linear

$4.00

$3.59 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more