Kailh BCP vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly impact your typing experience. The Kailh BCP, a linear switch, is celebrated for its innovative design that reimagines the beloved Black Cherry Pies (BCPs), boasting a creamy, viscous feel that offers an elastic bounce while typing. This switch delivers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, making it a delight for those who appreciate auditory feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), also a linear switch, is renowned for its Ly stems that provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience. It features a more resonant sound profile, which adds a satisfying acoustic layer to every keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences; the BCP is ideal for users who enjoy a tactile response, while the Tomcat (Heavy) appeals to those who prioritize a buttery smoothness in their typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh BCP Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh BCP and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), notable differences emerge primarily in the top housing components. The BCP utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller auditory experience. Being a softer plastic, nylon dampens vibrations, leading to a more muted and rounded sound profile when the keys are pressed. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is considerably stiffer and allows for a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in material composition means that while the BCP is likely to offer a warm and plush sound, the Tomcat (Heavy) provides a clearer resonance that highlights each keystroke with precision.

Focusing on the bottom housing, both the Kailh BCP and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share a commonality in their use of nylon. This similarity suggests that both switches will produce a similar deep and full sound profile at the bottom-out stage, where the characteristics of the bottom housing have the most influence. The use of nylon in both switches indicates that this material will effectively absorb sound, mitigating any potential harshness that might arise from a stiffer top housing material. As a result, while the BCP and Tomcat (Heavy) exhibit differences in their top housing sound profiles due to material disparities, they align in offering a softer auditory experience during the actuation phase.

Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in each switch shapes their overall sound and feel. While the BCP's nylon top provides a full-bodied acoustic profile, the Tomcat (Heavy)’s polycarbonate top creates a more pronounced auditory signature. However, with both switches sharing nylon in their bottom housings, users can expect a cohesive experience in terms of dampened noise and a warmer sound when the switch bottoms out. This harmonious blend of materials allows enthusiasts to achieve a distinct typing experience with each switch while still recognizing the impact of different materials in the overall soundscape produced.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we find that both switches offer a medium-heavy typing experience, but they slightly differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Tomcat (Heavy) features a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams. This means that the Kailh BCP is the lighter option overall, providing less resistance for typing, which can be beneficial during extended usage, like in a work environment or lengthy gaming sessions. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a stronger push, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial tactile feel when typing. Despite these differences, both switches remain within a similar force range, ensuring users can enjoy a robust experience regardless of which they choose.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we find that the BCP has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This makes the BCP the shorter option, providing a quicker response time, which is often preferred by gamers seeking an edge in speed and efficiency. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a deeper feel, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial key press and a less abrupt actuation. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, yet they cater to different preferences based on their slightly varied specifications. For users who prioritize responsiveness, the Kailh BCP will deliver a more immediate feedback, while those valuing depth may find the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) more to their liking.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Kailh BCP switches is characterized by a signature poppy and clacky tone, making every keystroke feel lively and engaging. This sound adds an element of feedback that many typists appreciate, contributing to a dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches produce a resonant sound that may resonate differently, depending on the overall keyboard build and acoustics. The distinct sounds of these switches cater to different preferences; the BCP offers a more pronounced auditory experience while the Tomcat (Heavy) delivers a deeper and more resonant sound.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh BCP switch presents a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation during typing, emphasizing a smooth keypress with a delightful rebound. This unique texture invites a more tactile experience, enhancing overall comfort during long typing sessions. In comparison, the Tomcat (Heavy) switches are designed to provide a super smooth typing experience due to their Ly stems, which focus on reducing friction for effortless actuation. While both switches aim to enhance comfort, the BCP’s bouncy quality contrasts with the sleek smoothness offered by the Tomcat.

In conclusion, both the Kailh BCP and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The BCP stands out with its lively clacky sounds and elastic feel, while the Tomcat (Heavy) boasts resonant acoustics paired with a super smooth action. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether one prefers an energetic typing experience or a more subdued, fluid feel. Regardless, each switch holds the promise of an enjoyable mechanical typing experience tailored to different preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re looking for a switch that offers a unique combination of elasticity and a tactile experience, the BCP might be the perfect choice for you. Its creamy and bouncy feel, coupled with the poppy and clacky sound profile, makes it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback while they type. This switch is particularly suited for typing and gaming scenarios where a lively, engaging experience is desirable. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother typing experience and prefer a more subdued sound, the Tomcat (Heavy) would be a better fit. With its super smooth Ly stems, this switch provides a linear feel that is consistent across the keystroke, and the resonant sound profile adds a pleasing acoustic dimension without being overly distracting. Therefore, consider what aspects of typing experience are most important to you—whether it’s the unique feel and sound of the BCP or the smooth, refined characteristics of the Tomcat—to make your final decision.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more