HMX Jelly vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jelly and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) stand out as two enticing linear options, each boasting unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Jelly switches are celebrated for their low-pitched, thocky sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory experience along with their super smooth keystrokes, thanks in part to their excellent factory lube. With a lightweight 42g actuation force, Jelly switches offer effortless typing that may appeal to those who desire a gentle touch. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) switches are known for their Ly stems which contribute to an exceptionally smooth typing experience, complemented by a resonant sound profile that can add a touch of personality to your keystrokes. While both options provide their own compelling features, the choice may ultimately come down to personal preference regarding 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), notable distinctions arise primarily from the types of plastics used in the top housing. The Jelly features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic allows for a more mellow auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer nature and tendency to create a sharper, more resonant sound. The polycarbonate's clearer tone provides a more pronounced auditory feedback upon keystroke release, which may appeal to individuals seeking a crisp sound while typing. This difference in top housing materials fundamentally affects the overall acoustic experience of each switch, showcasing the distinct sound profiles attributed to their respective materials.
Despite the divergence in top housing materials, both the Jelly and the Tomcat (Heavy) utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared characteristic means that both switches will inherit a deeper, fuller sound profile during the actuation phase due to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. The presence of nylon in the bottom housing enhances the tactile feedback and contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound, creating a cohesive auditory experience irrespective of the differences observed in their top housings. Therefore, in scenarios where users predominantly focus on the feel and sound of the bottom-out experience, both switches may yield similar results despite their distinct upper housing materials.
Furthermore, the contrasting aesthetics between the two switches reveal additional layers to their functionalities. The Tomcat (Heavy)’s polycarbonate top housing not only provides a higher sound clarity but also adds an element of visual appeal, particularly when RGB lighting is involved. Its translucence allows the light to pass through more effectively, creating an engaging lighting effect that is particularly attractive to gamers and enthusiasts who appreciate visually stimulating setups. In contrast, while the Jelly's nylon top housing may dampen both sound and light, its visually understated appearance can be appealing to those who prioritize a more subdued aesthetic. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to individual preferences regarding sound profiles and visual elements, while both still offer a satisfying typing experience rooted largely in their nylon bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch to the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences in typing feel. The HMX Jelly has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who engage in long typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort and can reduce fatigue. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offers a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Consequently, the Jelly is the lighter option, while the Tomcat (Heavy) is the heavier one, making it a better choice for those who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Overall, users seeking a lighter switch will gravitate towards the HMX Jelly, while those desiring a stronger resistance in their typing will likely favor the Bsun Tomcat.
Travel distance
The HMX Jelly linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the Jelly switch requires a little more depression before it registers a keystroke, which could be preferable for users who enjoy a more pronounced feeling when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Tomcat's shorter travel distance may offer quicker response times, appealing to gamers seeking rapid key presses. In this comparison, the Jelly switch provides a deeper keystroke sensation, while the Tomcat switch favors a more responsive and potentially less abrupt feel. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that delivers a hearty depth, the HMX Jelly would be the better choice, whilst the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) would suit those who prefer a brisker approach.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch is known for its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, which can create a satisfying auditory experience during typing. This characteristic can be quite appealing for those who enjoy a more muted and pronounced sound while they type. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) produces a resonant sound profile, which suggests it may have a clearer and more pronounced acoustic quality compared to the Jelly. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound of a switch can vary significantly depending on the choice of keyboard, board, and keycaps used, meaning that both switches can potentially deliver unique auditory experiences when paired with different setups.
When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch stands out for its super smooth typing experience, attributed to excellent factory lubrication and its lightweight actuation force of 42g. This combination allows for effortless key presses, making it a great choice for those seeking a smooth and responsive typing sensation. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) features Ly stems known for providing a similarly super smooth feel. While the exact weight of the Tomcat (Heavy) is not specified, the implication of its design suggests it might cater to those who appreciate a smooth keystroke, even if the actuation force is on the heavier side.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jelly linear switches and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches offer unique sound and feel attributes that can cater to different preferences. The Jelly provides a low-pitched, thocky sound with a lightweight and smooth actuation, while the Tomcat (Heavy) delivers a resonant sound and is also characterized by a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the ideal choice will depend on personal preferences regarding audio feedback and key travel sensation, and both switches can yield satisfying results in the right setups.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions, the Jelly switch is an excellent choice, thanks to its low actuation force of 42 grams and bottom-out force of 48 grams. Its smooth feedback and thocky sound signature provide a satisfying auditory experience without being overly loud, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, if you like a more substantial feel and prefer a slight resistance while typing, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch, with its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 64 grams, may be the better option for you. This switch offers a pronounced sound profile that resonates nicely as you type, and its Ly stem design ensures a silky smooth experience. In summary, if you're looking for a swift and light touch, the HMX Jelly is your go-to. But if you favor a robust tactile sensation with a deeper sound, you might find the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) more to your liking. Ultimately, it all boils down to whether you value a lighter touch or a heavier feel in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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