TTC Iron vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron and Bsun Tomcat both represent appealing choices for linear switch enthusiasts, yet they offer distinct characteristics that cater to differing preferences. The TTC Iron is renowned for its pronounced clacky sound signature, which enhances the auditory experience of typing, making each keystroke feel satisfying and lively. Its lightweight design allows for quick actuation, ensuring typing sessions are not only efficient but also free from fatigue, accompanied by a buttery smooth travel that appeals to both casual users and gaming enthusiasts. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat boasts Ly stems that provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience as well, but it presents a more subtle sound profile, allowing for quieter operation while maintaining a pleasant resonance. This balance of sound and tactile response makes the Tomcat ideal for those who value a more subdued environment without sacrificing performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Iron Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The TTC Iron and Bsun Tomcat differ significantly in their housing materials, leading to contrasting sound profiles that can significantly affect the typing experience. The Iron utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. This choice of material emphasizes warmth and a unique pleasing sound that is suited for users wanting a softer auditory feedback while typing. Conversely, the Tomcat employs polycarbonate for its top housing, renowned for its rigidity and translucence. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and more resonant sound, making it particularly appealing for users who prefer a crisper auditory experience. The material choice in the top housings thus directly influences the characteristics of the sound produced; POM leads to a warmer output, while polycarbonate enhances brightness and clarity.

When it comes to the bottom housings, the differences continue to shape the overall typing experience. The Iron incorporates POM for its bottom housing as well, which reinforces the deeper sound profile with muted tones. In contrast, the Tomcat features nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for being softer than both POM and polycarbonate, which means it absorbs more sound waves and produces a fuller, rounder sound. The differences here highlight how each switch capitalizes on its respective material properties—while the POM in the Iron offers a consistent sound depth, the nylon in the Tomcat enriches the sound quality by providing a softer response, further enhancing the diversity of engagements during typing.

Ultimately, if both the top and bottom housings are different, the cumulative sound quality and feel of each switch can still lead to a distinct typing experience. For instance, even though the TTC Iron employs POM in both housings, the net effect is a muted yet unique sound, while the Bsun Tomcat’s configuration of polycarbonate and nylon brings about a contrast of crispness and fullness respectively. Users can expect differing bottom-out sounds, response, and auditory profiles, influenced heavily by the individual qualities of each housing material. By choosing a switch based on preferred sound characteristics, typists can effectively customize their experience, whether they lean toward a more subdued or vibrant acoustic environment.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Iron features a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, placing it within the medium-light category. This means that the Iron switch is more forgiving on the fingers during prolonged use, while the Tomcat provides a heftier feedback that might appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Overall, those who enjoy a lighter switch will find the TTC Iron more accommodating, whereas those who prefer a firmer push should consider the Bsun Tomcat.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The TTC Iron features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This makes the Tomcat the shorter of the two switches, appealing to gamers and users who favor quicker response times. On the other hand, the Iron, with its longer 3.8 mm travel distance, may provide a more tactile and satisfying experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Consequently, if responsiveness is a priority for you, the Tomcat might be the better choice, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial feel might lean towards the Iron.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by a pronounced clacky sound signature that provides a distinct auditory feedback with each keypress, making it sharply resonant and bright. This sound profile can create an exhilarating typing experience for those who enjoy a more lively auditory interaction with their keyboard. In contrast, while specifics for the Bsun Tomcat switch are not fully detailed, it is noted that they produce a resonant sound profile as well, suggesting a similarity in the auditory experience, though the exact quality and clarity of the sound remain unspecified. The overall sound experience could vary based on the user’s keyboard setup, including the chosen board and keycaps, but both the Iron and Tomcat switches hint at an engaging auditory feedback.

In terms of feel, the TTC Iron switch is designed for a light actuation force that promotes effortless key presses, providing a smooth and responsive typing experience. Its easy-to-press nature minimizes finger fatigue, making it ideal for prolonged use. The mild character of the Iron’s feel further contributes to an overall approachable and comfortable typing experience. The Tomcat switch, while lacking a detailed description, features Ly stems aimed at delivering a super smooth feel. This focus on smoothness might suggest a comfortable typing experience similar to that of the Iron switch, which should help users expect a pleasant tactile feedback, though specifics are lacking.

In summary, both the TTC Iron and Bsun Tomcat linear switches offer appealing options for those seeking linear switches, emphasizing sound and typing feel. The TTC Iron shines with its distinct clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, which aligns well with comfort and engagement over extended typing sessions. The Tomcat, while less detailed in its sound characteristics, potentially mirrors that engaging auditory experience and emphasizes smoothness. Ultimately, users may find themselves enjoying both switches for their intended purposes, benefiting from the engaging sound and user-friendly feel that cater to enthusiasts and everyday typists alike.

Conclusion

To summarize, your choice between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch can hinge on your specific preferences for typing feel, sound, and intended use. If you favor a lighter actuation force and are looking for a more pronounced auditory experience while typing, the Iron with its 50-gram bottom-out force may be ideal for you. This switch excels in delivering a clacky sound signature alongside a smooth travel that can enhance your typing enjoyment, making it a great option for both work and gaming. Alternatively, if you appreciate a more moderate actuation force and desire a smoother typing experience without pronounced sound, the Tomcat with its 54-gram bottom-out force might be the better choice. Its Ly stems provide that super smooth transition with neutral feedback, making it suitable for a wide range of activities, whether you're typing documents or engaged in intensive gaming sessions. Ultimately, the decision should align with your personal preferences regarding sound and typing feel, ensuring you select the switch that best complements your keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Iron Linear

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more