Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) presents a unique opportunity to experience vastly different typist sensations. The Gateron Ink Box Black is celebrated for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, delivering a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, with descriptions like "clacky," "high-pitched," "silky," and "polished" often associated with it. This makes it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a tactile and audible feedback that enhances their typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) boasts Ly stems designed for an exceptionally smooth typing experience while also producing a resonant sound profile that can be quite satisfying. The Tomcat (Heavy) may attract those who prefer a switch that combines seamless actuation with a distinctive auditory character. Both switches cater to different preferences, whether you favor the tantalizing soundscape of the Ink Box Black or the refined smoothness of the Tomcat. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Box Black and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) present an interesting juxtaposition in their top housing materials, each contributing distinct auditory characteristics to their respective performances. The Ink Box Black employs a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is noted for producing a pointed sound profile that leans toward a higher pitch without crossing over into sharpness. This allows for a sound that many describe as clacky, providing a unique auditory experience for users who appreciate a lively keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Known for its strength and clarity, polycarbonate produces a sharper and crisper sound that enhances the overall typing experience, particularly when RGB lighting is involved, thanks to its translucency. Though both switches achieve higher pitch sounds, the Ink Box Black offers a slightly softer edge compared to the more distinctly sharp tone of the Tomcat (Heavy).

When examining the bottom housing, the differences between the two switches become more pronounced. The Ink Box Black features its proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, which complements its top housing by sustaining a high-pitched sound profile while maintaining a clacky nature. This duality contributes to a cohesive sound experience, where the light and bouncy tones resonate well together. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) opts for a nylon bottom housing, an established choice known for its dampening qualities. Nylon's softer nature absorbs sound, resulting in a fuller and deeper auditory experience. This variation means that while the Ink Box Black produces a consistent high-pitched sound throughout, the Tomcat’s deeper bottom housing results in a more layered acoustic profile, combining the sharpness of its polycarbonate top with a digestible roundness on key press.

Ultimately, while both switches present different materials in their construction and, therefore, unique sound profiles, they also provide overall similarities. The Ink Box Black with its INK blend across both housings creates a uniform sound experience skewed towards high-pitch clarity, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) merges sharper top housing sounds with a fuller, resonant base. If a user is seeking a highly distinctive sound experience from each switch, the Ink Box Black will deliver consistent clackiness, while the Tomcat (Heavy) will surprise with its deep, resonant blends. Despite these differences, both switches can effectively deliver satisfying keystrokes, making them appealing choices for enthusiasts depending on their preferred sound signature.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Box Black features a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it better suited for those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, catering to users who favor a softer touch. While both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, the Tomcat provides a gentler experience, potentially leading to less finger fatigue during extended sessions. Therefore, for typists and gamers who prioritize lighter switches, the Bsun Tomcat would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a firmer feel may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Black.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is the same, measuring at 3.6 mm for both. This parity in travel distance means that users can expect similar tactile experiences when pressing down on the keys for either switch. Since both switches share an identical travel distance, the key feel and responsiveness will likely be comparable, allowing for a consistent typing or gaming experience regardless of the switch chosen.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron Ink Box Black is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched signature, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. This creates a sharp, bright, and percussive auditory experience that many typists find satisfying, especially those who prefer a more noticeable sound when typing. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is noted for its resonant sound profile, though specific descriptors for its sound characteristics are not provided. This suggests that while the Tomcat may also produce an appealing sound, it may differ from the sharper and more dynamic tones of the Ink Box Black. Ultimately, the sound experience for both switches can be influenced by external factors like keyboard construction and keycap materials.

When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Black shines with its silky and polished characteristics, ensuring a remarkably smooth typing experience. These switches minimize resistance, allowing for effortless key presses and smoother transitions when releasing keys. The references to factory lubing further enhance this experience, making it feel refined and responsive. On the other hand, the descriptions for the Tomcat (Heavy) do not divulge any specific tactile qualities. This leaves an uncertainty regarding how their feel compares, but many users typically seek out heavy switches for a firmer resistance that may contrast with the prominent smoothness of the Ink Box Blacks.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a bright, high-pitched sound and an exceptionally smooth typing feel, making it an attractive option for those who enjoy an auditory cue along with a polished tactile experience. While the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) presents an unknown tactile quality and a resonant sound profile, it may provide similar outcomes in overall typing enjoyment. Users looking to choose between these models should consider their sound preferences, typing satisfaction, and any specific tactile feedback they desire, as both switches could cater to unique styles within the realm of linear switches.

Conclusion

In summary, the choice between Gateron Ink Box Black and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding feel and sound. If you prioritize a typing experience that is silky and polished, the Ink Box Black should be your go-to option. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams provides substantial feedback, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more tactile and satisfying press, complemented by its clacky and high-pitched sound profile that can enhance your auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that still offers a smooth feel but with slightly less force—64 grams—the Tomcat (Heavy) might be more suited to you. While it lacks the distinct sound character that the Ink Box offers, the Tomcat's Ly stems ensure a consistently smooth typing experience, creating a resonant sound profile that may be more conducive to a quiet working environment. Thus, when deciding between these two switches, reflect on whether you lean towards a louder, engaging sound and silky smoothness with the Ink Box Black or a quieter, more subdued yet still smooth experience with the Tomcat (Heavy).

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more