Gateron Mountain Top vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Mountain Top and Bsun Tomcat both present attractive options for different typing experiences, despite falling into the same category of linear switches. The Mountain Top switches are designed with the office environment in mind, offering a perfect balance of a quiet yet satisfying typing sound along with a comfortably light actuation that enhances prolonged typing sessions without creating distractions. They are characterized by a bouncy, easy-to-press feel that lends itself well to a professional setting. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switches prioritize smoothness, featuring Ly stems that provide a notably resonant sound profile and an incredibly fluid typing experience. Each switch has its unique strengths: the Mountain Top for those who value a quieter and more subdued experience, while the Tomcat appeals to users who appreciate a smoother keystroke with gratifying acoustics. 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 Mountain Top Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$6.00 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Mountain Top and the Bsun Tomcat switches are notable for their distinct sound profiles and aesthetic qualities, largely attributed to their differing top housing materials. The Mountain Top switch features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer plastic composition. This material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a muted and rounded auditory experience when the switch is engaged or released. In contrast, the Tomcat utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. The inherent translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the brightness of the acoustics but also makes it particularly desirable for setups that include RGB lighting, allowing for an attractive visual effect that complements its auditory characteristics.

When examining the bottom housings of both switches, however, they align in that both the Mountain Top and the Tomcat are made of nylon. This choice for the bottom housing results in a fuller and rounder sound profile for both switches when the key bottoms out. The nylon material's ability to absorb sound means that, regardless of the distinctive top housing materials, both switches will share similar auditory qualities at the point of actuation. This commonality in the bottom housing ensures that the tactile experience captured during the key press will exhibit the softer, deeper sound profile typical of nylon, leading to a consistently satisfying keystroke, whether one is using the Mountain Top or the Tomcat.

Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the total switch housing impacts the overall sound experience when typing. While the Mountain Top's nylon top contributes to a muted sound more suitable for a more relaxed atmosphere, the Tomcat's polycarbonate top offers a brighter and sharper sound that can elevate a more vibrant typing environment. Nonetheless, both switches will evoke a similar bottom-out sound and feel due to nylon being present in their bottoms, creating a nuanced experience that differs primarily in the auditory feedback upon release rather than in the actuation. This interplay between materials emphasizes how the different functionalities of each housing work in tandem to deliver a unique yet comparably pleasurable typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Mountain Top switch features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch that is ideal for prolonged usage, such as typing at work or engaging in lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, the Tomcat switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This marginally heavier force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, providing a firmer push feel. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter keyboard experience should gravitate towards the Mountain Top switch, while those who appreciate a bit more resistance should consider the Tomcat switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the Mountain Top features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Tomcat has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Mountain Top the shorter option and the Tomcat the longer one. Gamers might prefer the shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top for its quicker response times, facilitating faster key presses during gameplay. Conversely, those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback might find the Tomcat’s longer travel distance of 3.6 mm preferable, as it offers a deeper and more robust feel under the fingers. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, their travel distances provide distinct sensations, making the choice dependent on individual typing or gaming style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is designed for a neutral audio profile that balances discretion and a moderate sound level, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces. It provides a typing experience that is quiet enough to prevent disturbing others but still carries a clear audible feedback upon actuation. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switch boasts a resonant sound profile, which suggests that it may offer more auditory feedback during use. Although both switches cater to different environments with their unique sound characteristics, the Mountain Top prioritizes quietness while the Tomcat's resonance may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience.

When examining the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mountain Top excels with its bouncy and snappy characteristics, which contribute to an energetic typing sensation. The keys are designed for easy pressing, allowing smooth and comfortable typing with minimal resistance and reduced finger fatigue during long sessions. This makes them suitable not only for prolonged productivity but also offers a pleasant experience for users at all skill levels. Unfortunately, the specific feel attributes of the Bsun Tomcat switch are not available in the provided information, leaving a gap in comparison. However, both types of switches likely provide a unique experience that can cater to different preferences depending on an individual's typing style.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Mountain Top and Bsun Tomcat switches have differing characteristics in sound and feel, the Mountain Top clearly sets itself apart with its focus on being office-friendly through its discreet sound and lively typing feedback. The Mountain Top offers a well-rounded experience with several descriptors highlighting its responsive and user-friendly nature. In contrast, the Tomcat may appeal to those who prefer a more resonant sound, though its exact tactile experience remains unknown. Potential users might find similar satisfaction from either switch based on their particular needs, though the specific attributes could sway one decision over another.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Gateron Mountain Top linear switches and Bsun Tomcat linear switches largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the contexts in which you'll be using them. If you prioritize a quieter and more discreet typing experience—ideal for office settings where noise can be a concern—the Mountain Top switch is undoubtedly the better option. Its 50-gram actuation force and bouncy feel make it effortless to type on, promoting comfort during long work sessions while also providing a neutral sound profile that is unobtrusive for both you and your colleagues. On the other hand, if you value a super smooth typing experience and don’t mind a slightly more resonant sound, the Tomcat switch, with its 54-gram actuation force, may be more to your liking. The Ly stems of the Tomcat can offer a uniquely pleasant typing experience that caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced and engaging tactile sensation. Ultimately, your decision should hinge upon whether you need a switch that facilitates a serene working environment or one that enhances your enjoyment during casual or creative typing sessions.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Mountain Top Linear

$6.00 per 10

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Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more