Cherry Nixie vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the venerable Cherry Nixie and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), both of which are linear switches yet present distinctly unique characteristics. The Cherry Nixie has earned its place as a classic in the keyboard community, celebrated for its substantial heft and textured typing experience. With the incorporation of updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update, these switches strike a balance between cherished tradition and modern innovation, offering a thocky, low-pitched sound profile that many users adore. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) excels in delivering a remarkably smooth typing experience due to its Ly stems, providing a pleasing resonant sound that can greatly enhance day-to-day use. While the Nixie's textured feel might appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile connection with their keyboard, the Tomcat's sleek performance may be favored by users seeking buttery smooth keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that is right for you.

By the numbers

Cherry Nixie Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$6.00

$4.19 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), a distinct difference emerges between their top housings. The Nixie features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer characteristics. Nylon tends to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound. The aesthetic quality of polycarbonate also enhances its functionality; its translucency makes it an ideal choice for RGB lighting applications, which is particularly appealing for users who prefer illuminated setups.

While the top housings of the Nixie and Tomcat (Heavy) markedly differ, their bottom housings offer a unique point of convergence. Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both cases. This shared material choice indicates that while the overall auditory experience of each switch will differ due to their top materials, the underlying foundation provided by the nylon bottom housing will impart a consistent quality. This means that both switches will maintain a certain warmth and depth when bottoming out, as the nylon helps absorb sound and dampen any harsher tones during key presses.

Ultimately, the interplay of differing materials in the top and bottom housings of the Cherry Nixie and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) leads to unique sound profiles and user experiences. The softer nylon in the bottom housing of both switches will give a similar auditory sensation when keys are fully pressed down, promoting deeper and fuller sounds. However, the contrasting top housings create a noticeable divergence in sound when the keys are released. Users may find that the Nixie provides a more subdued and warm auditory experience, while the Tomcat (Heavy) delivers a brighter and more resonant tone. Thus, those selecting between these two switches should consider their preferences for sound character, which will be shaped predominantly by the material used in the top housing.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry Nixie linear switch to the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are noteworthy differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Nixie features a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavier switch. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) requires a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 64 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This makes the Tomcat lighter than the Nixie, appealing to those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, making it suitable for long working hours or extensive gaming sessions. Conversely, the Nixie’s heavier forces provide a more substantial feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Therefore, the choice between these switches will ultimately depend on whether a user values lighter action for endurance or a heavier push for feedback.

Travel distance

The Cherry Nixie linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option when compared to the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance means that the Nixie offers a more pronounced key feel, which is often preferred by users who enjoy a hearty depth in their typing experience. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers and others seeking faster response times, as it allows for quicker actuation and less key travel. Ultimately, if you favor a more responsive feel, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) would be the ideal choice, while those who appreciate deeper key presses might lean towards the Cherry Nixie.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is esteemed for its thocky quality, delivering a deep, rich sound reminiscent of a soft "thud" when a key is pressed or released. This low-pitched sound profile contributes to a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience that many users find satisfying during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch lacks a detailed sound description, though it is noted for having a resonant sound profile. While the exact character of that sound is unclear, users may find it to be less pronounced compared to the robust auditory identity of the Nixie.

In terms of feel, the Nixie switch is characterized by its textured experience, meaning users will notice a degree of friction that can give a tactile feedback during typing. This texture may appeal to those who enjoy a more traditional typing sensation that engages their fingers. The Tomcat (Heavy), conversely, is noted for its super smooth typing experience due to its Ly stems, which imply a frictionless feel that many users may prefer for extended typing or gaming sessions. This stark contrast in tactile feedback between the two switches allows users to choose based on their personal preference for either a textured or smooth sensation.

In conclusion, the Cherry Nixie and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Nixie excels in sound with its rich, thocky notes and textured feel, making it a classic choice among keyboard enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Tomcat (Heavy) invites users with its smooth actuation, although its precise sound profile remains less defined. Depending on what qualities you seek—be it a satisfying acoustic experience or a plush typing sensation—either switch can fulfill your mechanical keyboard needs, though their experiences will be noticeably different.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force. If you appreciate a tactile, textured experience with a heavy actuation force—coming in at 80 grams—resulting in a thocky and low-pitched sound, the Nixie might be the ideal choice for you. It is particularly suited for those who prefer a solid, weighty feel under their fingers and enjoy the deep, satisfying acoustics that accompany each keystroke. Conversely, if you seek a smoother typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 64 grams, the Tomcat (Heavy) could be your go-to switch, especially if you favor a more resonant sound profile without the added texture. This switch excels in providing a silkier feel, ideal for rapid typing or gaming where you desire speed and fluid motion. In essence, choose the Nixie for a pronounced, resistant typing experience and go for the Tomcat (Heavy) when you want a blend of smoothness and responsiveness.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry Nixie Linear

$6.00

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more