Cherry MX Black vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and the Bsun Tomcat present two compelling options for linear switch enthusiasts. The Cherry MX Black is renowned for its iconic design and has been further refined with Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, resulting in a uniquely textured smoothness that enhances the typing experience. With a low-pitched, deep sound profile and a stiff actuation force, MX Black switches are favored by gamers and typists who appreciate a more deliberate key press. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches offer a super smooth typing experience, featuring Ly stems that contribute to their seamless action. Their resonance creates a different auditory experience, appealing to those who prioritize a pleasant sound while typing. While both switches cater to linear switch fans, their distinct characteristics and feel may resonate differently with users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Black Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$4.00 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Bsun Tomcat, a key difference lies in the top housing material. The MX Black utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer composition which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This sound is more muted, as nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively than its harder counterparts. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a clearer and more resonant acoustic experience, especially beneficial for those who prioritize sound clarity when typing. The translucency of the polycarbonate switch housing also enhances its aesthetic appeal, particularly in systems where RGB lighting is a significant factor.

Turning to the bottom housing materials, both switches employ nylon, which underscores a consistent auditory signature in terms of sound absorption. The nylon bottom housing in both the Cherry MX Black and Bsun Tomcat delivers a deep and full sound profile, reinforcing a softer bottom-out sound across the switches. This commonality indicates that regardless of the differences in the top housings, the bottom housing material contributes similarly to the switches' acoustic characteristics. Consequently, the typing experience will evoke a consistent resonance in terms of bottoming out, regardless of the material disparity in the top housings.

In summary, while the Cherry MX Black and the Bsun Tomcat employ different materials for their top housings—nylon versus polycarbonate—both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a similar tactile and acoustic experience at bottom-out. The distinct properties of each top housing material will be felt when releasing the key, dictating the overall sound profile during typing and letting go, while the nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures a deeper sound common to both. Therefore, users seeking an experience that balances clarity and depth may find satisfactory results by bearing in mind the interplay of these materials in each switch’s structure.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The MX Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged use during typing or gaming due to its lower weight. This means that while the Cherry MX Black offers a firmer feel, the Tomcat is designed for those who favor a lighter touch. Consequently, individuals seeking a heavy switch for its tactile response should lean towards the MX Black, whereas those desiring a lighter and more effortless typing experience would benefit from the Bsun Tomcat.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Cherry MX Black features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Bsun Tomcat has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that users of the MX Black can expect a more pronounced keystroke, which some individuals prefer for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Tomcat's 3.6 mm distance caters to gamers and those who favor quicker response times, providing a more immediate actuation that may feel less abrupt compared to even shorter switches. Thus, the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness in their key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black switches are characterized by a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone that creates a deep sound profile during use. This more mellow auditory experience can be quite satisfying, especially for individuals who prefer a quieter typing session. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches feature a resonant sound profile, although the specifics of this quality haven't been detailed. It's important to note that the overall sound would also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, meaning that both switches can provide satisfying auditory experiences depending on the setup.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switches are designed with a textured surface that offers a noticeable friction when pressed. This characteristic can be appealing to users who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. Additionally, these switches are classified as stiff, requiring more force to actuate, which can lead to a more deliberate typing experience. The feel of the Bsun Tomcat switches hasn't been specified, leaving unknowns regarding their texture or stiffness. This lack of information makes it difficult to compare their tactile sensations directly, but it could suggest they provide a smoother or different experience from the MX Black.

In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Black switches offer a well-defined low-pitched sound and a textured, stiff feel, the Bsun Tomcat switches present an unknown audio quality and an unspecified tactile sensation. For those seeking a deep sound and textured feel, the MX Black would be a solid choice, while results with the Tomcat switches may vary. Ultimately, if a similar auditory experience is desired, considerations around setup and personal preferences will play key roles in achieving satisfaction with either switch.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black and the Bsun Tomcat linear switches, you'll want to consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a heavier switch that provides a textured, deliberate feel, the Cherry MX Black would be a suitable choice. Its stiff nature and low-pitched sound profile lend themselves well to a more traditional typing experience, making it ideal for users who appreciate tactile feedback and a solid thump as they type. This makes them well-suited for tasks that require precision, such as programming or writing, especially if you enjoy the deep, resonant sound they produce. Conversely, if you favor a lighter, smoother switch for a more effortless typing experience, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is the way to go. With its medium-light actuation force and ultra-smooth feel, it offers a great option for those who type quickly or prefer less resistance with each keystroke. Additionally, the resonant sound profile of the Tomcat can add a unique auditory experience while typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal style, typing habits, and the environment where you’ll be using the keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

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Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more