Gateron Luciola vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Luciola and the Bsun Tomcat each offer distinct features that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Luciola captures attention not only for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark design but also for its medium heft and a smooth, bouncy feel that many typists find pleasurable. Its hollow “can of spray paint being shaken” sound profile adds a unique auditory experience, making it a choice for those who appreciate tactile feedback and a bit of character in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat employs Ly stems to deliver a super smooth typing experience, ideal for users who prioritize fluidity and a resonant sound that enhances the act of typing without any harsh distractions. While the Luciola shines with its aesthetic and distinctive sound profile, the Tomcat excels in creating a sleek and quiet typing environment. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Bsun Tomcat, noticeable differences emerge in their construction and the resulting auditory profiles they produce. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing that delivers a pointed, high-pitched sound, often characterized as clacky and satisfying. In contrast, the Tomcat employs a polycarbonate top housing known for its sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature allows for resonance that aligns closely with the sound signature of the Luciola, albeit with a slightly different tonal clarity. Both switches aim for a pronounced high pitch, indicating that while their materials differ, they serve similar auditory aesthetics.

Looking at the bottom housing materials reveals a more significant contrast between the two switches. The Luciola's bottom housing also utilizes the proprietary INK blend, resulting in a consistent high-pitched profile across both housing pieces. This gives the switch a cohesive sound experience that emphasizes clarity. On the other hand, the Tomcat's nylon bottom housing generates a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its inherently softer composition. Nylon's sound-absorbing qualities contribute to a rounder auditory experience that is distinctively different from the Luciola's sharper tone. Consequently, while both switches may produce high-pitched sounds, the Tomcat adds a layer of depth that alters the overall acoustic experience.

In sum, the audio dynamics of the Luciola and Tomcat switches are shaped not only by their top housing materials but also by the contrast of their bottom housings. The blending of a high-pitched top housing with a rounding, fuller-bodied base in the Tomcat presents a unique hybrid auditory footprint. Conversely, the Luciola's similar use of its INK blend for both housing components ensures that it maintains a more uniform sound profile, creating a uniquely clacky experience. This differentiation highlights how the choice of materials affects the overall feel and sound of the switches, providing users with varied tactile feedback tailored to personal preference.

Weight

The Gateron Luciola and Bsun Tomcat linear switches both offer a balance of actuation and bottom out forces, but cater to different preferences when it comes to weight. The Luciola features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium option for users who prefer a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 54 grams, positioning it as a medium-light switch. This means the Tomcat is better suited for those who favor a quicker, less labor-intensive keystroke, ideal for extended gaming or typing sessions. While both switches achieve similar overall functionality, the Luciola provides a more substantial feel due to its heavier forces, whereas the Tomcat delivers a softer touch. Consequently, users looking for a heavier switch should opt for the Luciola, while those who prioritize a lighter typing experience will find the Tomcat more appealing.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Luciola and the Bsun Tomcat linear switches have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means they provide the same feel when pressed down. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect comparable keypress feedback and responsiveness when using either switch. Consequently, if you're seeking a consistent typing experience, either switch would yield similar results in terms of distance traveled from the top to the bottom.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch produces a unique auditory profile characterized as "clacky," "marbly," and "high-pitched." This sound can evoke sharp and percussive notes with a resonant quality that resembles the impact of two billiard balls or a finely polished marble surface. Such a sound can be both attention-grabbing and crisp, appealing to those who prefer a sharper auditory feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch's sound profile is less defined in comparison, which leaves its resonance qualities relatively unexplored. Given that sound is also influenced by other factors like the keyboard build and keycap material, the choice might ultimately lean toward personal preference.

Regarding feel, the Gateron Luciola excels in providing a medium heft with a smooth and bouncy typing experience. Descriptors like "snappy," "buttery," and "polished" indicate an engaging tactile response that keeps every keystroke lively and responsive. The smooth keystrokes allow for effortless typing, while the polished finish enhances the fluidity of each press. Conversely, the feel of the Tomcat switches remains uncharted, which makes it difficult to draw definitive comparisons. However, the Luciola’s textured experience sets a high standard for tactile satisfaction.

In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola linear switches stand out with a distinctive sound and feel, characterized by a resonant and sharp auditory profile coupled with a smooth and responsive typing experience. The absence of information on the Bsun Tomcat linear switch's sound and feel leaves an element of mystery, making it hard to compare directly. Those drawn to the Luciola can expect a unique blend of auditory and tactile feedback, while those considering the Tomcat may need to explore further to understand its offerings fully. Thus, if you enjoy a lively typing experience with pronounced sound, the Luciola could be your go-to choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Luciola and the Bsun Tomcat linear switches should be guided primarily by your preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. If you enjoy a medium heft under your fingers, appreciate a unique aesthetic element with switches that glow in the dark, and favor a bouncy and snappy typing experience augmented by a sharp, clacky sound profile, then the Luciola is the ideal choice for you. This switch will not only satisfy those who prioritize tactile responsiveness but also those who enjoy a vibrant auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother typing experience with a slightly lighter actuation force and prefer a more resonant sound profile, the Tomcat would be better suited to your needs. Its super smooth Ly stems provide a buttery feel that appeals to typists who enjoy effortless key presses without the extra noise and feedback. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, so consider what matters most in your typing experience—whether it be the visual flair, audible qualities, or overall feel—to ensure you make the perfect choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more