Outemu Black vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both stand out as popular linear options, yet they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Black switches are renowned for their reliability and straightforward performance, providing a consistent feel that many typists and gamers appreciate. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches boast Ly stems, which contribute to an exceptionally smooth typing experience, paired with a resonant sound profile that can enhance the overall tactile feedback. While the Outemu Black is favored for its solid and dependable action, the Tomcat (Heavy) draws users in with its smoothness and auditory presence. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize reliability or a refined typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Black Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$3.10 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), it becomes clear that both switches use identical materials for their top and bottom housings. Both feature a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This shared characteristic means that users can expect a similarly clear and resonant auditory experience when typing on either switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for users who favor RGB lighting, allowing for an aesthetically pleasing illumination effect that enhances the visual appeal of each switch.

On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which brings a distinct contrast in sound profile. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound when typing. This softer plastic contributes to a duller and rounder auditory experience, providing a more muted bottom-out sound compared to the crispness of the polycarbonate top. Consequently, both the Outemu Black and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) deliver a well-rounded typing experience where the nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the character of the sound and feel during key presses.

In summary, while both the Outemu Black and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share the same materials in their construction, the interplay between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom leads to their unique sound profiles. Users can anticipate a consistent experience regarding the high-pitched clarity delivered by the polycarbonate top, while also enjoying the deeper, fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom. The resulting typing experience harmonizes the bright sound of the key release with the subdued impact on bottoming out, showcasing how the combination of these materials influences the overall auditory and tactile feedback of each switch.

Weight

The Outemu Black linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch present a noticeable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different user preferences. The Outemu Black requires a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offers a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a lower bottom out force of 64 grams, appealing to users who prefer a less taxing keypress for long typing sessions or extended gaming. As such, those who lean towards heavier switches will find the Outemu Black more aligned with their needs, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) provides a more medium-heavy touch, emphasizing ease of key activation. Overall, the Outemu Black is the heavier option, while the Tomcat (Heavy) stands out as the lighter choice.

Travel distance

The Outemu Black linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm highlights the preference for a more substantial key press with the Outemu Black, appealing to users who enjoy a deeper and more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Tomcat (Heavy) can provide quicker response times, making it a favored choice among gamers looking for rapid actuation. For those who appreciate a rapid yet potentially more abrupt feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers the responsiveness associated with shorter travel distances without compromising too much on key feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Black linear switch is generally characterized by a relatively muted acoustic profile, which creates a smooth and less intrusive typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is noted for its resonant sound profile, providing a more pronounced auditory experience that can enhance the overall sensation of typing. It’s important to remember that the sound produced by each switch can vary significantly based on the type of keyboard, keycap material, and even the mounting method used; thus, individual setups may yield different results.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Black switch lacks a distinct tactile bump, which allows for a straightforward linear pressing motion that many users appreciate for its simplicity and smoothness. The Tomcat (Heavy), on the other hand, is highlighted for its Ly stems, which contribute to a super smooth typing experience. This emphasis on smoothness in both switches suggests a similar approach to linear actuation, making for a seamless key press, though the specific characteristics of their stems may affect how fluid that experience feels.

Overall, while the Outemu Black and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) may differ in their sound profiles, with one being muted and the other resonant, both switches prioritize a smooth linear feel. The Tomcat's unique features might offer a slightly more refined experience, but both switches can deliver satisfying key presses. Choosing between these two will largely come down to personal preference regarding sound and the individual typing experience you're looking for in your mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a notably heavy feel and don't mind an increased bottom-out force of 82 grams, the Outemu Black would be more suitable for you. This switch delivers a straightforward linear experience, which can be excellent for those who enjoy a more deliberate typing style or who frequently engage in gaming that demands precise keystrokes. On the other hand, if you value a smoother typing experience coupled with a lower bottom-out force of 64 grams, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) would be your go-to choice. This switch stands out with its unique Ly stems that provide a luxurious feel while also producing a pleasant resonant sound profile. In essence, if firmness and that traditional linear sensation are what you're after, stick with the Outemu Black, but if you desire a softer touch with a smoother actuation for both typing and gaming, then the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) will likely be the better fit for you. Ultimately, consider your typing style and sound preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more