KTT Kang White vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Kang White and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) stand out as two compelling options for fans of linear switches. The KTT Kang White is celebrated for its delightful typing sound and self-lubricating material, which ensures an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience. Coupled with its low-pitched acoustic profile, it offers a satisfying feedback that many typists find appealing. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) features Ly stems that contribute to a super smooth typing experience as well, but with a resonant sound profile that adds a unique depth to each keystroke. While both switches provide a linear feel, their distinct audio characteristics and construction materials cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two may hinge on whether you prioritize a softer sound or a richer auditory experience while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the KTT Kang White and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) exhibit striking similarities, particularly in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which is known for its rigidity and transparency, contributing to a sound profile characterized by sharper, higher-pitched tones. This inherent stiffness allows for a crisper sound, making both switches highly effective for users who favor a clearer auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate is a significant advantage for users who employ RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual appeal by allowing light to pass through and illuminate the housing, resulting in a vibrant lighting effect.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is constructed from nylon, which introduces a different auditory character. Nylon's softer composition absorbs sound more than harder plastics, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This results in a rounder sound, contrasting with the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top. The sound dynamics become more pronounced when considering how these materials interact during use: while the bottom housing's properties influence the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback as a key is pressed down, the top housing significantly impacts the sound produced upon releasing a key.
Ultimately, while both the KTT Kang White and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) utilize the same materials for their respective housing components, the interplay between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom yields a balanced auditory experience that merges clarity with depth. Users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and responsiveness, attributed to the identical materials used. This synergy ensures that both options deliver high-quality performance, combining a crisp release with a fuller sound on actuation, making either choice appealing depending on the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we can observe notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Kang White features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Tomcat (Heavy) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This difference suggests that users who prefer a lighter feel might gravitate towards the Kang White for extended typing sessions, as its lower actuation force could lead to less fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the Kang White's is at 58 grams, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) reaches 64 grams. This means that the Kang White offers a softer bottoming out experience compared to the more substantial feel of the Tomcat (Heavy). Therefore, while both switches fall into a medium and medium-heavy category, the KTT Kang White is the lighter option with a softer overall feel, making it more suitable for those seeking comfort over prolonged use, whereas the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) caters to those who prioritize a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Kang White has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you opt for the KTT Kang White, you'll experience a deeper keypress that some users may find more satisfying or substantial. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, could be preferable for gamers or those seeking speed, as it allows for quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: if you favor a more pronounced key feel, the Kang White is the right pick due to its longer travel distance, while the Tomcat (Heavy) caters to those who prioritize responsiveness and rapid key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99, whereas the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Kang White switch offers a low-pitched auditory experience, characterized by a mellow and bass-heavy tone that provides a pleasant acoustic profile during typing. This makes it not only enjoyable for the user but also less intrusive in shared environments. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch features a resonant sound profile, which, while not explicitly defined in terms of pitch, suggests a fuller and perhaps more complex sound. The key takeaway here is that while both switches provide a distinctive auditory experience, the Kang White leans towards a deeper tone, whereas the Tomcat brings a more resonant quality to the table.
In terms of feel, the KTT Kang White switch is noted for its unparalleled smoothness, attributed to its self-lubricating material. This feature enhances the typing experience, making it feel effortless and fluid. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is highlighted for its Ly stems, which are also celebrated for providing a super smooth typing experience. Both switches, therefore, promise a premium feel, emphasizing a seamless glide across keystrokes that typists will appreciate, particularly for long typing sessions.
Overall, both the KTT Kang White and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches cater to enthusiasts looking for high-quality linear experiences. While the Kang White switches stand out with their low-pitched sound and self-lubricating smoothness, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a resonant auditory experience alongside its own super smooth feel. Ultimately, there's a significant overlap in their capabilities, ensuring that users looking for either switch can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with some nuances that may sway personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. If you enjoy a balanced typing feel that leans towards the smoother side with a low-pitched sound profile, the Kang White is your go-to option. Its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams makes it comfortable for longer typing sessions, and its self-lubricating material enhances the overall smoothness, making it ideal for both casual typists and gamers who appreciate a tactile yet quiet experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier and more tactile typing experience, the Tomcat (Heavy), with its 64-gram actuation force and distinctive resonant sound profile, would suit you well. This switch's Ly stems offer a super smooth feel, appealing to those who value auditory feedback alongside a heavier key feel. Ultimately, your choice should align with how much resistance you want while typing and the sound characteristics you prefer in your mechanical keyboard experience.