Gateron Mars vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When navigating the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mars and the Bsun Tomcat stand out as compelling options for users who prefer linear switches. The Gateron Mars switches are celebrated for their innovative design, featuring a POK stem combined with a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, which offers a unique tactile experience and robust build quality. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches are known for their Ly stems, providing a remarkably smooth typing experience complemented by a resonant sound profile that many users appreciate. Both switches cater to different user preferences: the Mars offers durability and distinct feel, while the Tomcat focuses on an ultra-smooth action and auditory feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Mars Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Mars and Bsun Tomcat switches utilize different materials for their top housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles that cater to varying user preferences. The Mars features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer characteristics. This material effectively absorbs sound, leading to a muted auditory experience that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the Tomcat employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances aesthetic appeal, particularly when paired with RGB lighting, allowing light to diffuse through the housing and creating visually striking effects during use.

Analyzing the bottom housings reveals a different story, as the materials used by the Mars and Tomcat align more closely. The Mars exhibits a POM bottom housing known for producing a deep, muted sound, while the Tomcat's bottom housing is made from nylon, which also promotes a fuller, rounder sound profile. This similarity results in both switches delivering a pleasant auditory experience, particularly when pressing down on the key. Given that the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, the Tomcat's nylon bottom similarly facilitates a satisfying typing experience, despite the difference in top housing materials.

Ultimately, when considering both the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Mars and Bsun Tomcat switches, one can appreciate the balance of sound qualities that each component brings to the overall typing experience. The Mars's combination of a nylon top and POM bottom creates a rich and deeper sound, while the Tomcat's contrasting polycarbonate top and nylon bottom define a clearer and crisper auditory result. Users seeking a softer and more muted sound may prefer the Mars, while those who prioritize clarity and brightness might find the Tomcat more to their liking. Overall, the interplay of housing materials in these switches demonstrates how sound profiles can diverge or align based on the choices made in switch design, leading to unique yet comparable user experiences.

Weight

The actuation force of both the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is identical at 45 grams, indicating that users will experience a similar level of resistance when pressing either switch to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force differs significantly between the two, with the Tomcat providing a bottom out force of 54 grams while the Mars has an unspecified bottom out force. This means that the Tomcat switch will require a heavier push to press all the way down, making it more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial feel during typing. In contrast, since the Gateron Mars lacks a specific bottom out force, we cannot make direct comparisons regarding its overall weight or feel. Nonetheless, the similar actuation forces suggest that typists and gamers opting for either switch will find the initial keystroke feel is the same, while those looking for a lighter overall experience may prefer the Mars over the Tomcat.

Travel distance

The Gateron Mars linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch both share the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that users can expect a similar feel when pressing down on the keys for either switch. This equal travel distance results in comparable performance in terms of key actuation and overall typing experience. Therefore, whether choosing the Mars or the Tomcat, one can enjoy a consistent linear switch experience, as both switches require the same amount of key travel to register a press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Mars switch is known for its resonant sound profile, although specific details on its acoustic qualities are not provided. Meanwhile, the Bsun Tomcat switch is also characterized by a resonant sound, suggesting that both switches might produce a similar auditory experience when typing. That said, the overall sound can vary based on the keyboard build and materials used, meaning both options can achieve desirable acoustics depending on personal setup choices.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mars switches feature a unique POK stem, which often implies a particular smoothness and stability during keypresses. Conversely, the Tomcat switch incorporates Ly stems, which are renowned for delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience as well. Both switches emphasize a silky feel, indicating that users can expect smooth actuation regardless of which switch they choose.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Mars and Bsun Tomcat linear switches offer unique features while providing a resonant sound profile, suggesting they will provide a pleasing auditory experience. In terms of tactile feel, both aim for smoothness, although they utilize different stem designs to achieve this. This means that newcomers can expect an enjoyable and quiet typing experience with either switch, making both solid choices for linear switch enthusiasts.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between Gateron Mars linear switches and Bsun Tomcat linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific usage scenarios. If you're seeking a switch that prioritizes an ultra-smooth typing experience, the innovative design of the Mars, with its POK stem and Nylon-POM housing, makes it an excellent option. Its silent operation allows for a more discreet environment, making it ideal for office settings or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slight tactile resistance and are looking for a balance between smoothness and feedback, the Tomcat's medium-light 54-gram bottom out force could cater to that experience perfectly. Additionally, the resonant sound profile of the Tomcat adds a character that some users might find satisfying, especially if you appreciate auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, if you lean towards a refined touch with noteworthy acoustic qualities, the Tomcat is your go-to. Conversely, for those who prefer a fluid motion with minimal sound, the Mars will serve you well. By considering these attributes, you'll be better equipped to select the switch that aligns with your typing style and environment.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Mars Linear

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more