Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) mechanical keyboard switches, both linear options offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Lightning Silver V3 is celebrated for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, which can add an engaging auditory element to your keystrokes, making it a fun choice for enthusiasts who appreciate feedback from their typing. Its silky feel and unique light diffuser also enhance RGB illumination, ensuring that your keyboard not only performs well but looks vibrant, too. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) prioritizes a super smooth typing experience with its Ly stems, delivering a more resonant sound profile that many users find satisfying, especially during extensive typing sessions. While both switches provide smooth actuation, the choice between the lively auditory feedback of the Lightning Silver V3 and the more refined resonance of the Tomcat (Heavy) ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Everglide Lightning Silver V3 Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$5.55

$4.10 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share a commonality in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice significantly influences the sound profile of the switches, as polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant audio feedback that is preferred by many users. Furthermore, both switches benefit from the aesthetic appeal of a translucent housing, which is advantageous for lighting effects, particularly in setups that employ RGB illumination. Consequently, users of either switch can expect a similar auditory experience during actuation due to this shared polycarbonate top.

In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the two switches diverge, with the Lightning Silver V3 also using polycarbonate, while the Tomcat (Heavy) opts for nylon. This difference is crucial, as the bottom housing significantly impacts the overall sound profile and feel when a key is bottomed out. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the Lightning Silver V3 will provide a sharper sound characteristic, similar to its top housing, creating a uniform auditory experience throughout the keystroke. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) will yield a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon inherently absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory feedback compared to its polycarbonate counterpart.

Ultimately, the combined effects of the housing materials create distinct sound profiles for each switch. While both switches deliver a crisp sound at the top of the keystroke due to their common polycarbonate top housing, the tonal difference emerges with the differing bottom housings. Users of the Lightning Silver V3 may appreciate the consistency and clarity throughout the keystroke, while the Tomcat (Heavy) will appeal to those preferring a softer, more muted experience at the bottom. Regardless of choice, each switch provides a unique tactile and auditory experience shaped by the interplay of their respective materials.

Weight

When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch to the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lightning Silver V3 features an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it the lighter option. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, categorizing it as the heavier choice. This difference in force means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter feel will likely find the Lightning Silver V3 more comfortable for extended use, while those who appreciate a more substantial tactile experience may favor the added resistance of the Tomcat (Heavy). Both switches have medium and medium-heavy classifications, respectively, indicating they cater to slightly different preferences in typing experience and comfort during prolonged use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Lightning Silver V3 features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it a relatively shorter switch, while the Tomcat (Heavy) provides a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This slight difference may influence user experience: those who favor quicker responsiveness, such as gamers, might find the shorter 3.4 mm distance of the Lightning Silver V3 more appealing. In contrast, users who appreciate a more pronounced keypress and depth may lean towards the Tomcat (Heavy) switch with its deeper 3.6 mm travel. Ultimately, selecting between these switches depends on personal preference for either rapid response or a more substantial tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switch delivers a distinct sound profile, characterized by a clacky and high-pitched tone. This results in a sharp, snappy auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying and engaging. The contrast of its bright, crisp sound can be particularly appealing in lively environments, making it a choice for those who enjoy a pronounced audio experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch also features a resonant sound profile, though specific descriptors for its sound are not provided. It may deliver a unique auditory experience as well, but the absence of detailed characteristics makes it difficult to compare directly with the Lightning Silver V3.

When it comes to feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is notable for its silky typing experience, which minimizes resistance and allows for smooth key presses and releases. This exceptional smoothness can significantly enhance overall typing performance and reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The feel of the Tomcat (Heavy) is less clearly defined due to a lack of specific descriptors; therefore, it’s difficult to assess how it may compare in terms of typing comfort and feedback.

In summary, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 offers a clacky, high-pitched sound along with a silky feel that many users will find appealing, particularly those who value auditory feedback and smooth keystrokes. The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) provides a resonant sound profile, which may be enjoyable in its own right, but its tactile qualities remain somewhat unknown. When considering these switches, both options can produce satisfying results, yet the Lightning Silver V3 seems to offer a more defined typing experience that may appeal to a broader range of preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a lighter feel with a crisp, clacky sound profile, the Lightning Silver V3 would be an excellent choice. Its silky smoothness and enhanced RGB illumination make it ideal for typists and gamers alike who enjoy a vibrant, lively keyboard experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance with a heavier typing feel and a resonant sound profile, the Tomcat (Heavy) could be more suitable for you. With a solid weighty bottom out force, these switches provide a robust feel that many users appreciate, particularly in a gaming context where tactile feedback is essential. In the end, your decision should reflect what you value more in your typing or gaming experience: the spirited engagement of the Lightning Silver V3 or the solid stability of the Tomcat (Heavy).

Mentioned in this article

Everglide Lightning Silver V3 Linear

$5.55

$4.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more