Outemu Brown vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly enhance your typing experience. The Outemu Brown switch, known for its tactile feedback, provides a subtle bump at the actuation point, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a responsive typing sensation without the loud click of a traditional switch. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switch stands out as a linear option, offering a smooth typing experience with no tactile resistance or audible click, making it ideal for gamers or those who prefer a quieter environment. The Tomcat’s unique Ly stems contribute to a fluid keystroke and produce a resonant sound profile that some users find particularly satisfying. While both switches cater to different preferences and use cases, the choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a streamlined, quieter experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Brown Tactile

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$3.10 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Brown and Bsun Tomcat mechanical switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, contributing to a similar auditory experience. The choice of polycarbonate in both switches results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, primarily due to the material's inherent stiffness. This quality not only enhances the clarity of sound produced when the switch is engaged but also allows for greater resonance. Both switches benefit aesthetically from polycarbonate's translucency, making it an excellent choice for users interested in RGB lighting, as the light can pass through the clear housing effectively, illuminating the switch and enhancing the overall visual experience.

In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the Outemu Brown and Bsun Tomcat switches differ, with both using nylon—a classic choice known for its impact on sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than its harder counterparts, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This material choice for the bottom housing contributes to a more rounded and muted acoustic experience, particularly noticeable when the switch bottoms out. The combination of nylon's sound-absorbing qualities in the bottom housing allows for a distinct bottom-out experience, contrasting with the crispness imparted by the polycarbonate top.

Even though the upper and lower housings of the Outemu Brown and Bsun Tomcat are made of the same materials, the variance between them stems from their structural roles. The polycarbonate top housing facilitates the clarity and brightness of sound upon the release of the key, while the nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the feel and sound when the keys are pressed down. This dynamic creates a unique interplay between the materials, ensuring that both switches deliver a cohesive yet differentiated sound profile. If both the top and bottom housings were made from identical materials, users would likely enjoy a more uniform sound experience, but the distinct materials chosen in the Brown and Tomcat enhance the overall typing experience by blending clear resonance with warm undertones.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Brown requires an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. Consequently, the Tomcat is better suited for users seeking a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended work sessions or long gaming marathons. Meanwhile, the heavier Outemu Brown may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feel under their fingers. Overall, these differences make them suitable for different preferences; the Outemu Brown offers a stronger push while the Bsun Tomcat provides a softer touch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Outemu Brown switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat switch measures at 3.6 mm. This means that the Brown switch offers a more substantial depth, which might be preferred by users who enjoy a more tactile experience when pressing keys. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Tomcat switch caters to gamers or individuals seeking quicker response times, making it feel less abrupt compared to traditional switch designs. Ultimately, those who favor a deeper press may gravitate towards the Outemu Brown for its longer travel distance, while the Bsun Tomcat is ideal for those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their typing or gaming experiences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Brown switch produces a relatively muted, subdued profile that doesn't generate excessive noise, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces. The tactile bump provides a satisfying yet discreet audible response, although it is less pronounced than some other tactile switches. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is characterized by a resonant sound profile that, while not clicky like some tactile switches, offers a deeper, satisfying thock when the key is pressed. This distinct sound helps enhance the typing experience, providing an auditory feedback that many users find engaging. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can significantly vary depending on the keyboard construction, including the type of materials used for the board and keycaps.

When examining the feel of each switch, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is known for its gentle tactile bump that provides just enough resistance to give the user feedback without overwhelming them. This allows for a comfortable typing experience, especially during long typing sessions, where users can feel the actuation without any harshness. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, with its Ly stems, is engineered for a super smooth typing experience that lacks any tactile feedback. This smoothness can significantly enhance the experience for users who prefer a gliding, uninterrupted keystroke, making it ideal for gamers or typists who favor rapid key presses without the distraction of tactile bumps.

In conclusion, both the Outemu Brown and Bsun Tomcat switches cater to different typing preferences. The Brown's subtle tactile feedback and muted sound make it a great option for those who enjoy a classic typing experience without drawing attention, while the resonant sound and smooth feel of the Tomcat linear switch cater to users who prioritize a fluid and engaging typing journey. Ultimately, choosing between them depends on individual preferences for sound and feel, and both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences in their own right.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you wish to achieve. If you favor a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy tactile feedback that can provide a satisfying sensation with each keystroke, the Outemu Brown will likely suit you well, especially during longer typing sessions where you desire some resistance to help prevent accidental key presses. This switch is ideal for typists and gamers who appreciate tactile switches' feedback during their interactions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother typing experience with a softer touch, the Bsun Tomcat is the way to go. Its lighter bottom-out force and Ly stems grant an exceptionally smooth feel, perfect for rapid typing or gaming where quick, uninterrupted key presses are necessary. The Tomcat's resonant sound profile adds a unique audio element that may appeal to those who enjoy audible feedback without the distinct tactile bump. In essence, select the Brown if you crave tactile engagement, but lean towards the Tomcat for a smooth and responsive experience, aligning with your personal preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

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Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more