Cherry MX Brown vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that cater to different typing preferences are the Cherry MX Brown and the Bsun Tomcat. The Cherry MX Brown switches, celebrated for their tactile feedback, provide users with a subtle yet satisfying typing experience. With gentle tactility and low-pitched, subdued audio feedback, these switches are ideal for those who appreciate a more nuanced interaction with their keyboard, making them particularly suitable for typing-intensive tasks. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches stand out with their focus on smoothness, thanks to their Ly stems, which offer a remarkably fluid keypress. The resonant sound profile of the Tomcat can appeal to those who prefer a more linear feel without the tactile bump, making them excellent for rapid gaming or continuous typing. Ultimately, each switch caters to distinct user preferences – whether you prefer the tactile confirmation of the Cherry MX Brown or the seamless glide of the Bsun Tomcat. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown switch and the Bsun Tomcat, a clear distinction emerges between their top housings. The Cherry MX Brown features a nylon top housing, a material known for its softer properties that produce a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This characteristic is largely due to nylon's ability to absorb sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat employs a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that generates a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile, contributing to a clearer and more resonant auditory feedback. This difference not only affects the acoustics of the switches but also influences their overall performance in typing experiences.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Cherry MX Brown and the Bsun Tomcat utilize nylon, which promotes similar sound characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures a deeper and fuller acoustic profile when the switch bottoms out, providing a consistent and pleasant typing feel. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that, despite the differences in the top materials, both switches can deliver a comparable experience in terms of the sensations felt during keystrokes. Consequently, while the top housings provide distinct auditory feedback, the bottom housings converge to create an overall fuller sound when the switches are engaged.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings of both switches leads to a unique typing experience for each. The Cherry MX Brown's softer nylon top contrasts sharply with its nylon bottom, creating a solid, rounded sound profile. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat’s polycarbonate top housing offers a brighter sound paired with a nylon bottom that complements the auditory experience by maintaining that deeper resonance when bottoming out. While the switches deliver different sound experiences due to their top housings, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing unifies the typing feel, highlighting the importance of both materials in achieving desired acoustic and tactile outcomes.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, both exhibit similar actuation forces, with the MX Brown requiring 45 grams to register a keystroke and the Tomcat matching this force exactly. This parity means that users will likely experience comparable responsiveness in terms of keystroke activation for both switches. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the MX Brown having a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Tomcat has a marginally lighter bottom out force of 54 grams. Both switches can be classified as medium-light, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the Cherry MX Brown offers a slightly heavier bottom out feel, which might appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the MX Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Cherry MX Brown provides a deeper keystroke experience, which can be appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced feedback with each press. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who prefer quicker responsiveness, making it a suitable choice for gamers who value speed in their keystrokes. Thus, individuals who enjoy a more tactile and deep feel should opt for the MX Brown, while those who favor a faster performance may find the Tomcat more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding keystroke depth and response speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00, whereas the Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched audio profile. This means that each key press produces a deeper and richer sound, reminiscent of low frequencies that many find satisfying. This subdued audio is complemented by the relatively gentle tactile feedback of the switch, making the experience of typing both pleasant and unobtrusive. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches don't have a defined sound profile noted, but it’s important to remember that the overall sound can greatly depend on the keyboard build and keycap material chosen. Therefore, while the Tomcat's sound characteristics may be less documented, users might still find a pleasant auditory experience influenced by their setup.
In terms of feel, Cherry MX Brown switches are characterized by their textured feedback. The tactile bump provides a noticeable resistance when pressed, which can be enjoyable for typists who appreciate a bit of friction during their typing. This textured sensation offers reassurance that the key has been actuated but not so much that it becomes tiresome over time. Conversely, the Tomcat switches boast a super smooth experience due to their Ly stems. The absence of significant friction makes the typing action effortless, appealing to users who prefer a fluid feel with each keystroke. Thus, while the MX Brown has a more deliberate tactile experience, the Tomcat offers a seamless and unrestricted typing action.
Considering the overall analysis, both the Cherry MX Brown and Bsun Tomcat switches cater to different preferences among typists. The MX Brown is ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback and a more muted sound experience marked by a distinctive bassy tone. In contrast, the Tomcat switches aim for an ultra-smooth action, appealing to those who favor a linear feel with potentially varying sound profiles based on setup choices. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize the tactile sensation of typing or prefer a gliding, friction-free experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Cherry MX Brown tactile switches and Bsun Tomcat linear switches primarily hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a typing experience that combines a lightly tactile feedback with a more subdued sound profile, the Cherry MX Brown would be well-suited for your needs. These switches excel in environments where you might not want to disturb others, making them a great choice for office settings or shared spaces. Their subtle tactile bump can also enhance precision during typing, making them a solid option for writing or coding tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer an exceptionally smooth keypress with a focus on a more resonant sound experience, the Bsun Tomcat switches are your go-to. With their Ly stems, they provide a silky-smooth action that many gamers and typists enjoy, especially when quick and responsive key presses are essential for performance. Therefore, consider whether you prioritize tactile feedback and a bassy sound with the MX Browns or the fluidity and sound character of the Tomcats, as either choice can enhance your typing experience in unique ways.
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