Outemu Blue vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

Mechanical keyboards have gained immense popularity among enthusiasts for their distinct switch types, each offering unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. Among these, the Outemu Blue switch stands out as a clicky option, renowned for its tactile feedback and audible click sound, making it a favorite among typists and gamers who appreciate the satisfying response with each keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch provides a linear typing experience characterized by its smooth operation, thanks to its Ly stems, delivering a whisper-quiet performance ideal for those who prefer a more understated keyboard sound. While the Blue switch may be suited for individuals who enjoy the audible cues that accompany their typing, the Tomcat is perfect for users seeking a seamless and silent experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Blue Clicky

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$3.10 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Blue and the Bsun Tomcat switches share a notable similarity in their top housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice of material is pivotal for enhancing the auditory experience of each switch, as polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. With its stiff structure, the polycarbonate top allows for increased resonance when a key is pressed and released, resulting in a sound that is both clear and distinct. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups, allowing for vivid and vibrant illumination through the switch, which is a feature both the Outemu Blue and Bsun Tomcat benefit from.

On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches are composed of nylon, a classic material that significantly influences the overall sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and contributes to a deeper, fuller character to the sound when typing. This softer nature leads to a warmer and duller sound, providing a nice contrast to the crispness of the polycarbonate top. As a result, the combination of these materials creates a dynamic sound experience where the top housing sharpness and the bottom housing warmth come together to provide nuanced audio feedback.

When considering how the combination of different materials affects the overall keyboard experience, it's important to recognize that the interplay between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom can lead to distinct auditory outcomes. While the Outemu Blue and Bsun Tomcat switches utilize the same materials for their respective housings, the impact on sound production is a blend of both top and bottom housing characteristics. Each switch maintains a unique sound profile, reflective of the materials used, that ultimately provides users with satisfying tactile and auditory feedback. Therefore, despite the identical materials, the nuanced balance between the sharper top and warmer bottom is what may create a slightly different typing experience between the two switches.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Outemu Blue requires an actuation force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the Tomcat’s actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered medium-light. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions might find the Tomcat more suitable, as it requires less force to actuate. However, the bottom out force for the Blue switch is unspecified, leaving an unknown variable in this comparison. In contrast, the Tomcat switch has a known bottom out force of 54 grams, which adds to its overall resistance. Thus, while the Outemu Blue offers a clicky feedback ideal for typists who enjoy a stronger push feel, the Bsun Tomcat is a better choice for users seeking a lighter touch while still maintaining some level of force upon bottoming out. Therefore, the Outemu Blue can be seen as the heavier option of the two.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Outemu Blue switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional and deeper feel preferred by those who enjoy pronounced tactile feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to users who might favor quicker response times and a more streamlined keystroke experience, which is often sought after by gamers. Essentially, if you value a deeper, more satisfying press, the Outemu Blue switch would be the better choice, while the Bsun Tomcat offers a slightly shorter travel distance that could lead to faster actuation. Thus, users will feel a distinct distinction between the two in terms of depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Blue switch is characterized by its prominent clicky sound, which creates an audible feedback that many typists enjoy, especially for its nostalgic appeal. The click sound is sharp and distinct, providing a satisfying auditory cue for each keypress. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch offers a more subdued and resonant sound profile. The Tomcat lacks the loud click of the Blue, instead producing a smooth sound that is less obtrusive—an aspect that can be appealing in quieter environments or for users who prefer a more stealthy typing experience. Regardless of their inherent qualities, the sound experience can significantly vary based on the keyboard build and keycap material used.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Blue provides a tactile experience characterized by a noticeable bump at the actuation point, paired with the click sound that reinforces the feedback during typing. This tactile back-and-forth can be appealing for those who prefer a more tactile distinction while they type. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat features Ly stems that contribute to a particularly smooth typing experience. The linear action of the Tomcat means there’s no tactile feedback or click, allowing for a fluid keystroke that many users find comfortable, especially during prolonged typing sessions.

In summary, both switches offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Blue excels in providing auditory and tactile feedback, making it a top choice for enthusiasts who enjoy the classic mechanical keyboard feel. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat focuses on delivering a smooth and quiet typing experience for those who appreciate a more understated approach. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize the interactive sound and tactile feedback of the Blue or the sleek, smooth action of the Tomcat.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch should largely depend on your typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you enjoy auditory feedback and a tactile sensation while typing, the Outemu Blue switches are an excellent option for you. Their clicky sound profile and tactile bump provide a satisfying feedback that can enhance your typing experience, especially for those who appreciate the nostalgic feel of traditional typewriter keys. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter transition between keystrokes, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch may be better suited for you. With its medium-light bottom-out force and the creamy Ly stems that create a super smooth typing experience, the Tomcat is ideal for those who prioritize speed and a subdued sound profile. Ultimately, consider your personal style—whether you thrive on the clicky feedback of the Blues or the silky smoothness of the Tomcats—as that will guide you toward the switch that will best enhance your keyboard usage.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

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Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more