Cherry Nixie vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to choosing between the Cherry Nixie and the Bsun Tomcat, both linear switches exhibit distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Cherry Nixie is celebrated in the keyboard community for its substantial heft and textured typing sensation, offering a rich, thocky sound that many typists find satisfying. Its recent MX2A updates enhance the switch's responsiveness, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a blend of tradition and modernity in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat shines with its exceptionally smooth typing experience, thanks to its Ly stems, which deliver a resonant sound profile that many users find enjoyable and engaging. While both switches offer unique advantages for linear typing enthusiasts, your choice may ultimately depend on whether you prioritize the classic textured feel of the Nixie or the sleek smoothness of the Tomcat. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Cherry Nixie Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$6.00

$4.19 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Cherry Nixie and the Bsun Tomcat keyboards utilize different materials for their top housings, which can significantly influence the auditory experience and tactile feedback during use. The Nixie's top housing is made of nylon, a material known for its softer properties that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This absorbed sound lends itself to a more muted and rounded auditory experience—a quality appreciated by users who prefer a subtle typing sound. In contrast, the Tomcat features a polycarbonate top housing, a stiffer plastic that yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction not only affects the overall sound of the keyboard but also caters to different user preferences for auditory feedback; where the Nixie excels in warmth, the Tomcat offers brightness and clarity.

However, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, providing a common ground that results in somewhat similar characteristics. Despite their differing top materials, the shared nylon in the bottom housing ensures that users will experience a deeper and fuller sound profile from both keyboards when bottoming out. This similarity means that both keyboards, while offering different sound profiles during the key release, will maintain a consistent baseline in terms of the tactile feedback received during pressing the key. Thus, both models can suit users looking for a satisfying bottom-out experience, regardless of the top housing material chosen.

Overall, the combination of materials in both the Cherry Nixie and Bsun Tomcat allows for a unique sound profile that reflects their construction while also showcasing a critical difference based on the top housing material. Users may ultimately choose the keyboard that best fits their preferences for typing sound and feel; some may prefer the more subdued tones of the Nixie, while others might lean toward the bright and crisp sounds produced by the Tomcat. Nevertheless, the use of nylon in the bottom housings provides a unifying element that guarantees a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that both keyboards can deliver an enjoyable performance depending on the user’s auditory preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavier option. In contrast, the Tomcat's actuation force is significantly lighter at 45 grams, with a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This discrepancy indicates that users who prefer a heavier switch may find the Nixie more satisfying for a substantial typing experience, while those who seek ease of key presses for longer typing or gaming sessions would likely favor the Tomcat. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that requires more force and provides a robust feel, the Nixie is the better choice, whereas the Tomcat offers a lighter, more comfortable option for prolonged use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Cherry Nixie features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a traditional choice that many users appreciate for its hearty depth. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This shorter distance may appeal to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, as it allows for more rapid key presses. While both switches offer unique benefits based on individual preferences, the Nixie's longer travel distance may be favored by users who prefer a more substantial tactile experience, whereas the Tomcat’s shorter distance could be seen as more efficient for fast-paced gaming scenarios.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Cherry Nixie linear switch is celebrated for its thocky sound profile, characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying thud when a key is actuated. Users often describe the auditory experience as low-pitched, adding a bass-heavy warmth that enhances the typing experience. This sound quality contributes to a more immersive and resonant feedback, making each keystroke feel impactful. In contrast, details about the sound profile of the Bsun Tomcat switch are unknown, leaving a gap in comparative analysis. However, it's noteworthy that the overall sound produced by any switch can vary significantly depending on the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.

When it comes to tactile feel, the Nixie switch offers a distinctly textured typing experience. Users often report a noticeable friction during presses, which can provide a sense of control and feedback with each key strike. This quality can be particularly appealing to those who enjoy feeling the mechanics of their keyboard at work. The Tomcat switch, however, lacks detailed descriptions regarding its feel. Thus, one cannot directly compare the tactile experience between the two. The textured feel of the Nixie might cater to users who appreciate a more tangible interaction with their keys, while the Tomcat's characteristics remain a mystery.

In summary, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is regarded for its rich, thocky sound and textured feel, appealing to those who value audible feedback and a sensory typing experience. The Tomcat switch, while touted for its smoothness, lacks available information on its sound and feel qualities. Consequently, those interested in a switch that harmonizes sound and tactile feedback may gravitate toward the Nixies, while the Tomcats could be a question mark for newcomers exploring their keyboard preferences. Ultimately, personal experience will be the best guide in determining which switch suits individual needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Cherry Nixie and the Bsun Tomcat linear switches boils down to your unique typing preferences and the overall experience you seek from your keyboard. If you enjoy a more substantial feel and appreciate the tactile feedback provided by textured switches, the Cherry Nixie might be the better option for you. Its heavier bottom-out force of 80 grams offers a pronounced typing experience that many typists and gamers cherish for its robust and satisfying thocky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch that allows for quicker and more effortless keystrokes, the Bsun Tomcat, with its medium-light bottom-out force of 54 grams, would suit you better. Its Ly stems contribute to a super smooth typing experience, making it ideal for fast typists or those who prioritize efficiency over the tactile sensation. Ultimately, choose the Nixie for a classic and textured feel or the Tomcat for a smooth and quick typing experience, ensuring that your keyboard meets your specific requirements and brings you joy in every keystroke.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry Nixie Linear

$6.00

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more