Gazzew LT vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, both the Gazzew LT and the Bsun Tomcat offer unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Gazzew LT switches, with their alluring lilac hue, deliver an auditory experience characterized by a deep, resonant "thock" that many enthusiasts crave. Their classification as 'bassy,' 'thocky,' and 'low-pitched' sets the stage for a satisfying tactile feedback, making them an ideal choice for those who appreciate an enjoyable auditory response alongside a seamless keystroke glide. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches boast Ly stems that promise a super smooth typing experience and a resonant sound profile, appealing to users who prioritize fluidity and consistency in their keystrokes. While both switches cater to the linear switch lover, the subtle differences in their sound profiles and tactile feel may sway your choice depending on your personal preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew LT Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$6.50 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the Bsun Tomcat, a stark divergence is evident in their composition and resultant sound profiles. The Gazzew LT employs a proprietary blend known as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings, which is characterized by its softness. This material is lauded for producing a rich and deep sound profile, giving users a generally warm auditory experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity and capability to generate a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon's softer qualities contribute to a deeper, fuller auditory output. This fundamental difference sets the stage for distinct acoustic performances based on the materials used in these switches.

Despite their differences, the Gazzew LT and Bsun Tomcat may still achieve similar sound quality results, depending on user preferences. While the Gazzew LT's boba plastic contributes warmth and depth, the clear polycarbonate of the Tomcat enhances brightness in the top end. This means that although the materials are different in composition and contribution to sound, seasoned users may find that the two switches can evoke satisfying auditory experiences under different contexts. The interplay between the softer boba plastic and rigid polycarbonate may still allow users to achieve sounds that cater to individual tastes, as both switches offer a unique mix of character.

Furthermore, the impact of each housing material extends into how the switch feels and sounds during use. Since the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when pressing the switches, the adaptation to nylon in the Tomcat might not steal away from the overall switch experience for those familiar with softer housings. This becomes a matter of user preference, focusing on the balance between the deeper notes provided by nylon and the sharper melodies of polycarbonate. Ultimately, whether one leans towards the Gazzew LT's boba plastic for a rich auditory experience or the Tomcat's blend of materials for a more varied sound profile, both options cater to different tastes while embracing their unique strengths.

Weight

The Gazzew LT linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The LT has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is categorized as medium-heavy, but its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Tomcat features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lower bottom out force of 54 grams, making it medium-light. This difference indicates that users who prefer a lighter typing experience, such as those who type for extended periods or engage in longer gaming sessions, may gravitate towards the Tomcat switch. Meanwhile, those who appreciate a more substantial feel with a stronger push could find the Gazzew LT more suitable, provided they enjoy the higher bottom out force. Overall, if the actuation force of the LT were known and aligned closer to the Tomcat's, users might experience similar performance. However, as it stands, the Tomcat is definitively the lighter switch, with the LT being the heavier option in terms of bottom out force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the LT features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Tomcat has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Consequently, if you're looking for a more responsive typing experience, the Gazzew LT would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker key presses—a quality often sought after by gamers. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing keys might prefer the Bsun Tomcat's longer travel distance, as it provides a deeper tactile experience. Overall, the Gazzew LT is the shorter switch, and the Bsun Tomcat is the longer option, offering distinct advantages depending on individual preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew LT switches are celebrated for their deep, thocky character, characterized as being bassy and low-pitched. The auditory experience resembles the deep resonance of a thud or a gentle knock, creating an inviting atmosphere every time a key is pressed. This rich sound profile is enhanced by the switch’s design, offering a satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, while the Tomcat switches also produce a resonant sound profile, detailed descriptors of their sound characteristics have not been provided. Therefore, without specific attributes described for the Tomcat switches, it’s challenging to pinpoint how they might compare directly in sound quality.

Regarding the feel of the switches, again, the information provided does not specify the tactile sensations that the Gazzew LT or Bsun Tomcat switches offer. The LT switches are noted for their seamless glide, providing a fluid and uninterrupted experience during typing. Similarly, Tomcat switches feature Ly stems, which suggest a smooth typing experience as well, though the exact tactile feedback or resistance is not detailed. Without this information, one might assume that both switches deliver a comfortable and smooth typing experience, yet definitive comparisons remain elusive.

In conclusion, while the Gazzew LT linear switches deliver a rich, thocky sound and a seamless feel, the Bsun Tomcat switches also boast a smooth typing experience, although specific tactile qualities and sound descriptors for the Tomcat remain unknown. If you are looking for a satisfying auditory experience paired with a fluid typing feel, both options may serve well; however, the unique thockiness of the LT switches might be more appealing for those who prioritize auditory feedback in their typing experience. Overall, the choice between them may come down to personal preference, particularly regarding the sound profile and tactile sensations, which are integral to the mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force and sound profile. If you enjoy a heavier feel and prefer a deep, rich auditory experience with each keystroke, the Gazzew LT is the way to go, as its 65-gram bottom-out force provides a satisfying tactile weight combined with a thocky sound that adds a level of depth to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch and prioritize smoothness in your typing with an effortless glide, the Tomcat switch, with its 54-gram bottom-out force, might be more suitable for you. While the LT offers a bassy, resonant sound that enhances the mechanical experience, the Tomcat focuses on a super smooth and responsive feel, ideal for fast typists or gamers seeking swift key presses without the added weight. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style, sound preferences, and the way you engage with your keyboard, ensuring that you have a switch that feels just right for you.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew LT Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more