Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing options that cater to both typing feel and sound profile. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is a long-time community favorite, celebrated for its smooth downstroke and rich, bassy clack that gives a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. Its low-pitched characteristics contribute to a polished, comfortable typing experience that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches tout a unique advantage with their Ly stems, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience as well. Known for their resonant sound profile, the Tomcat switches can offer a different kind of acoustic satisfaction, making them appealing for those who prioritize a harmonious auditory environment. Both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts but bring distinct qualities to the table—whether it’s the Ink Black V2’s rich clack or the Tomcat's smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Bsun Tomcat switches serve as key factors in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is specifically designed to produce a thin and higher-pitched sound described as clacky. This is in contrast to the Tomcat’s polycarbonate top housing, known for delivering a sharper and crisper sound. While both materials contribute to a higher-pitched audio experience, the INK blend is tailored for a more satisfying and less harsh auditory feedback. However, both housing types aim for clarity in sound, resulting in a somewhat overlapping auditory experience despite their material differences.

When examining the bottom housing, a stark contrast emerges between the two models. The Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend, which maintains the pointed and high-pitched sound profile of the top housing. In contrast, the Tomcat employs a nylon bottom housing; nylon is renowned for generating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer, sound-absorbing nature. This fundamental difference affects how each switch responds when bottomed out. The Ink Black V2 creates a more consistent clacky sound throughout, while the Tomcat offers a richer auditory experience with its rounder sound profile elicited by the nylon construction, demonstrating how each material contributes distinctly to the user experience.

Ultimately, the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials of these switches merge to produce unique sound signatures. While the top housings of both the Ink Black V2 and Tomcat may lean towards a higher-pitched profile, the bottom housings create a differentiated experience; the INK blend retains the pointed sound while nylon produces a deeper tone. Therefore, users can expect a dynamic interplay of auditory feedback from both switches, influenced significantly by their individual material compositions. Those seeking clarity and sharpness may prefer the Tomcat, while those who enjoy a more pronounced clacky feel might gravitate toward the Ink Black V2, allowing enthusiasts to choose a switch that best fits their desired sound and typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to various typing preferences. The Ink Black V2 features an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which classifies it as medium-heavy, thus providing a more substantial typing experience that some users might prefer for a tactile feel. In contrast, the Tomcat linear switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This lighter setup may benefit those who type for extended periods, such as in work or long gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue. Overall, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is the heavier switch, favoring users looking for a firmer push, while the Bsun Tomcat offers a lighter experience for those who prioritize comfort and endurance.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, it's evident that the Ink Black V2 provides a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference in travel distance underscores distinct user preferences: those who prefer a more substantial, hearty feel during key presses may lean towards the Ink Black V2, as its longer distance contributes to a more satisfying tactile feedback. Conversely, gamers or users who prioritize speed and responsiveness may find the Tomcat's shorter travel distance more appealing, allowing for quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on individual taste regarding depth versus speed in keypress responses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch produces a distinctive sound characterized by its low-pitched, bassy quality, resulting in a rich and mellow auditory experience. When pressing the keys, users will notice a slight chirp, which adds a unique texture to the overall sound profile. This blend of sounds makes the Ink Black V2 noteworthy for those who appreciate a robust acoustic signature while typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch does not have specific details regarding its sound profile available, making it challenging to compare directly. However, sound experiences can vary significantly based on the specific keyboard build and keycap material used, so results may still be favorable.

In terms of feel, the Ink Black V2 is lauded for being mild yet polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience. This switch is designed with a smooth and sleek key travel, presenting minimal friction, which many users find comfortable for prolonged use. The smoothness is largely attributed to the materials and potentially factory lubing, making it approachable for a broad audience. Unfortunately, there is no data on the feel of the Tomcat switch, which leaves a gap in comparative insight.

Overall, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch stands out with its rich, low-pitched sound and smooth typing feel, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch remains an enigma in terms of specific qualities. If sound qualities are paramount in your decision, the Ink Black V2 offers a standout experience, but if you’re drawn to the idea of exploring other options like the Tomcat, you may end up with a typing experience that fits your preference—a journey yet to be defined until more attributes are unveiled.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a heavier bottom-out force and appreciate a richer auditory experience with deep, bassy tones, the Ink Black V2 may be your ideal choice. It offers a smooth downstroke combined with a unique chirpy sound that enhances the typing experience for many users. This switch is well-suited for those who prefer a more substantial feel as they type, providing a satisfying tactile presence. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch while typing and prioritize an exceptionally smooth keypress, the Bsun Tomcat would be more fitting. Its medium-light bottom-out force allows for a comfortable typing experience, while the Ly stems deliver seamless key travel. Although the Tomcat may not provide the same rich soundscape as the Ink Black V2, its overall performance focuses on delivering a clean and efficient typing feel. Therefore, your decision should hinge on whether you value a heavier feel with character or a lighter, ultra-smooth experience when selecting between these two linear switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more