Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are celebrated for their tactile feel, providing users with a noticeable bump that enhances the typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more engaging and feedback-oriented interaction. Developed alongside keyboard enthusiast Glarses, these switches offer both reliability and a medium-strength actuation that's perfect for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches cater to those who prefer a linear experience; with their Ly stems, they deliver a buttery-smooth keystroke that minimizes resistance, making them an excellent choice for fast-paced gaming and seamless typing sessions. While both switches have their distinct advantages, it ultimately boils down to whether you favor tactile feedback or a fluid motion during your keypresses. 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
N/A
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Bsun Tomcat switches showcase notable differences, particularly in their top housings, which significantly influence the auditory experience during use. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture. This characteristic leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile as the nylon absorbs sound rather than reflecting it. The result is a typing experience that’s generally more muted and rounded. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer material. This stiffness contributes to a sharper and crisper auditory experience, producing a higher-pitched sound profile that underscores the clear and resonant qualities of this plastic. Thus, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB may provide a more subdued acoustic experience, the Bsun Tomcat offers a brighter, more vibrant sound.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which brings a level of consistency between them. The nylon bottom housing in both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Bsun Tomcat enhances the overall typing experience by delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Given that bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel more directly, users can expect similar tactile feedback from both switches, resulting in a cushioned and satisfying typing sensation. This uniformity in materials allows for a synergy between the softer bottoms and the differing top housings, creating a balanced sound profile for both switches.
The implications of the differing top housing materials become more apparent when considering their effects on RGB lighting as well. The Cherry MX Purple RGB's nylon top may diffuse light rather than allowing for a defined glow, resulting in a more diffused aesthetic. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat’s polycarbonate top housing is designed for clear illumination, producing vibrant RGB lighting effects that are often desired by users looking to customize their keyboard aesthetics. Ultimately, while both switches share a common ground with nylon bottom housings, their top housings create distinct listening and visual experiences: the MX Purple RGB offers a muted, rich sound, while the Tomcat provides a bright, precise auditory experience paired with dynamic lighting capabilities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, both switches share an identical actuation force of 45 grams, which means users can expect a similar keystroke initiation experience with both options. However, the contrast lies in the bottom out force; the Tomcat switch has a specified bottom out force of 54 grams, while the bottom out force for the MX Purple RGB is unavailable. The presence of a higher bottom out force in the Tomcat switch indicates a heavier feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, if you favor lighter switches for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be the better choice, while those who appreciate the tactile feedback and stability of a heavier switch might lean towards the Bsun Tomcat.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a travel distance of 4 mm, which places it within the traditional range and offers a more substantial feel when pressing the keys. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to gamers who often prefer quicker response times that come with reduced travel distances. This design choice may appeal to those who prioritize rapid key presses, though some users may find the shorter travel to be somewhat abrupt. Ultimately, if you favor a deeper, more tactile experience, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is the better option, while the Bsun Tomcat provides a more responsive feel for those who favor speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
The Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch produces a refined and pleasing auditory feedback, characterized by a distinct tactile bump that can be heard upon actuation. This sound is clear but not excessively loud, making it a good choice for environments where noise might be a concern. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch has a resonant sound profile that tends to be quieter and more subdued due to its linear design. This results in a smoother sound experience, especially when typing quickly. However, the overall sound you experience with either switch can vary greatly based on additional factors, such as the keyboard's build quality and the type of keycaps you choose.
Regarding feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB provides a unique tactile feedback experience. The medium-strength bump creates a pronounced sensation that is both satisfying and helps to provide clear confirmation of actuation. This tactile quality, developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiasts, enhances the typing experience for those who appreciate feedback from their switches. In contrast, the Tomcat linear switch is designed for a super smooth typing experience due to its linear nature, which means there is no tactile bump; rather, the key travels smoothly from top to bottom without interruption. This results in an effortless feel that many users find desirable, especially for gaming or fast typing.
Overall, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Bsun Tomcat switches cater to different preferences and priorities in mechanical keyboard switches. If you enjoy a tactile feedback and a sound profile that offers clarity, the MX Purple RGB may be the better choice for you. However, if you are after a seamless and smooth typing experience with minimal auditory disturbance, the Tomcat linear switch could be more up your alley. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value tactile feedback over smoothness and noise levels in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch should be guided by your typing preferences and intended usage. If you enjoy a tactile feedback experience that enhances your typing accuracy without being overly stiff, and you favor a short, responsive bump, the MX Purple RGB would be an excellent fit for you. Its unique design caters well to both gamers and typists, making it versatile for various applications, especially if you appreciate a refined sound profile that complements your keyboard aesthetics. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keypress with a more linear feel, the Bsun Tomcat switch could be your ideal choice. Its medium-light actuation force makes it suitable for prolonged typing sessions where you want to minimize finger fatigue, and its resonant sound adds an appealing auditory dimension to your keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision hinges on the tactile experience you seek: go for the Cherry MX Purple RGB for that satisfying tactile bump, or choose the Tomcat switch for a silky, linear action in your typing or gaming endeavors.
Mentioned in this article
