Durock Lupine vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options, and the Durock Lupine and Bsun Tomcat are two compelling choices in the realm of linear switches. The Lupine switch stands out for its innovative two-stage long springs, delivering an unparalleled feeling of balanced weight distribution during keystrokes and a powerful rebound that creates a satisfying typing experience. Its notable clacky sound profile adds an element of auditory satisfaction, making it a favorite among those who appreciate both tactile feedback and acoustics. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat offers a different appeal with its Ly stems, which provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Users can expect a resonant sound profile, making the Tomcat a fantastic option for those who prioritize a whisper-quiet environment without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths that cater to different preferences, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Lupine Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Lupine and Bsun Tomcat share a remarkably similar construction when it comes to their top housing, both utilizing polycarbonate as their material of choice. This commonality results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, a characteristic tied to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucence of the polycarbonate is highly advantageous for RGB lighting, making both the Lupine and Tomcat visually appealing while enhancing the lighting effects. As a result, users can expect a clear and resonant auditory experience with both switches that signifies attention to sound quality and aesthetic design.

While the top housings of the Durock Lupine and Bsun Tomcat are made from the same polycarbonate material, their bottom housings tell a different story. Both switches are equipped with nylon as the material for their bottom housings, which provides a contrasting sound experience. The nylon's relatively softer nature contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder auditory impression. Consequently, the combination of polycarbonate on top and nylon at the bottom enables both switches to blend the sharpness of the top housing with the warmth of the bottom, resulting in an engaging typing experience.

In summary, both the Durock Lupine and Bsun Tomcat exhibit the same choices in materials for their top and bottom housings, which ultimately leads to similar results in terms of sound profile. The polycarbonate top contributes to a crystalline clarity, ideal for RGB lighting, while the nylon bottom adds depth and warmth. This thoughtful pairing ensures that regardless of which switch a user opts for, they can expect a harmonious blend of sound characteristics, with the qualities of each material distinctly affecting different aspects of the typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lupine features an unspecified actuation force, but its bottom out force is measured at 62 grams, which classifies it as medium. In contrast, the Tomcat has a defined actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorized as medium-light. Consequently, the Tomcat is the lighter switch, offering a softer feel that may appeal to users looking for less fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. In comparison, the Lupine's higher bottom out force suggests a firmer keystroke experience, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing sensation. Therefore, while both switches boast medium characteristics in different areas, the Tomcat wins in lightness, making it a potentially better option for prolonged use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, we see a slight difference in their specifications. The Durock Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat measures at 3.6 mm. This means that the Lupine offers a longer travel distance compared to the Tomcat, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper keystroke for a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, gamers and those seeking faster response times might gravitate toward the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Tomcat. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for response and depth, with the Durock Lupine providing a more pronounced feel and the Bsun Tomcat offering a quicker actuation point.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the sound of the Durock Lupine linear switch, it presents a unique clacky sound profile. This is characterized by a higher-pitched resonance that contributes to a lively typing experience, ensuring clarity and presence in each keystroke. The auditory feedback can evoke a nostalgic feel for traditional typing sounds, making it appealing for users who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic response. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switch is noted for its resonant sound profile, which may not have been specified in greater detail but suggests a distinctive auditory quality as well. It's important to note that sound perception can vary greatly depending on the choice of keyboard construction and keycap materials, so both switches have the potential to perform differently in various setups.

In terms of feel, the Lupine switch excels with its two-stage long springs which deliver a consistent weight distribution throughout the keystroke. This results in a typing experience that blends mild characteristics with a polished finish; the switch feels smooth and refined while still being approachable for beginners. The upward rebound is notably more powerful, enhancing the overall tactile interaction. On the contrary, the Tomcat switch features Ly stems designed for a super smooth experience, although further specific qualities of its feel are unknown. Both switches ideally provide a pleasurable typing experience, with the Lupine perhaps favoring a more nuanced interaction due to its design.

In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine and the Bsun Tomcat linear switches offer distinctive auditory and tactile experiences suitable for different preferences. The Lupine’s combination of a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, alongside its balanced and polished feel, makes it versatile for a range of users. The Tomcat, while offering smoothness and resonance, invites exploration despite the lack of detailed characteristics. Ultimately, users can expect to find satisfaction in either switch by considering their unique sound and feel attributes.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Durock Lupine and Bsun Tomcat linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you value a more substantial feel with a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Lupine is a fantastic choice, particularly if you appreciate a consistent weight distribution and a powerful rebound during typing. The classic clacky sound profile coupled with its mild and polished characteristics makes the Lupine suitable for a wide range of environments, whether you're working in an office or gaming at home. On the other hand, if you're seeking an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a lighter bottom-out force, the Tomcat shines in this regard. Its Ly stems contribute to a uniquely resonant sound profile and an effortless keypress, making it ideal for those who type quickly or prefer a softer touch. In essence, choose the Lupine if you want a balanced, tactile experience, and opt for the Tomcat if your priority is a super smooth and lighter feel.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Lupine Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more