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Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Bsun Tomcat

An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the type of switch can significantly impact both your typing experience and overall satisfaction with the keyboard. The Outemu Dustproof Blue switch, renowned for its clicky feedback, provides a tactile sensation that engages typists and can be particularly satisfying for those who love the sound of each keystroke. This makes it an excellent choice for typists who thrive on auditory feedback and enjoy a more traditional "typewriter" feel. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch offers a linear experience characterized by its smooth operation and absence of tactile bumps or clicks. This allows for quieter typing, making it suitable for environments where noise is a concern, and is particularly favored by gamers who require swift, uninterrupted key presses. Both switches have their unique advantages and cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

50g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

65g

Bottom-out force

54g

Pre-travel

2.20 mm

Pre-travel

1.95 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

POM

Stem material

Ly

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Extended spring

Housing materials

The Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Bsun Tomcat share notable similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing material. Both switches benefit from the properties of polycarbonate, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, allowing it to create a clear and resonant sound that enhances the auditory experience of keyboard users. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate in both switches makes them particularly compatible with RGB lighting setups, enabling vibrant illumination that showcases the colors effectively. As a result, users of either switch can expect a similar sound response and an aesthetically pleasing lighting experience.

When examining the bottom housing, both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Bsun Tomcat employ nylon, a material associated with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory characteristic that distinguishes it from harder plastics. This quality is crucial in creating a balanced sound experience, as it impacts the bottom-out sound—the moment when the key is fully pressed down. Therefore, with both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users will likely experience a comparable sound dynamic when bottoming out, further enhancing the tactile and auditory performance of both switches.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate in the top housings and nylon in the bottom housings of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Bsun Tomcat means that users will enjoy a well-rounded sound profile that benefits from both materials’ unique properties. The crispness provided by the polycarbonate top enhances the sound as keys are released, while the richer sound produced by the nylon bottom deepens the auditory experience when keys are pressed down. Thus, despite any branding differences, both switches can deliver similar results in sound quality, presenting a harmonious blend of crisp highs and resonant lows that cater to diverse keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch exhibit clear differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, catering to distinct preferences among users. The Dustproof Blue requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Tomcat's lighter 45 grams. This difference means that typists or gamers who favor a softer touch may find the Tomcat switch more comfortable for prolonged use, potentially reducing finger fatigue during extended sessions. When it comes to bottom out forces, the Dustproof Blue has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Tomcat's is notably lighter at 54 grams. Consequently, users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might prefer the heavier Dustproof Blue, which provides a stronger tactile feedback. In summary, for those seeking a lighter switch with less resistance, the Bsun Tomcat is the better choice, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue offers a heavier and more pronounced feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Dustproof Blue features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is on the longer side of the spectrum and provides a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users may find enjoyable. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those who favor quicker response times typically sought after by gamers. While both switches have their own advantages, the Outemu Dustproof Blue offers a more substantial keystroke, making it suitable for users who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Conversely, the Tomcat's reduced travel distance can result in a more rapid actuation, beneficial for fast-paced gaming scenarios. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize depth or responsiveness in your typing experience.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99.

Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.

That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is generally characterized by its distinct clicky sound that provides audible feedback with each key press. This sound profile is often favored by typists who enjoy the tactile and auditory confirmation when they type. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch produces a more resonant sound profile that leans towards a smooth and muted experience. The difference in sound makes the Dustproof Blue ideal for those who appreciate pronounced acoustics in their typing experience, while the Tomcat is more suited for users who prefer a quieter environment or a less distracting sound.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is known for its tactile bump, which gives a satisfying sensation during typing, thereby enhancing the overall typing experience. This tactile feedback can be particularly beneficial for users who rely on that resistance to ensure they have registered a key press. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch features Ly stems that contribute to a super smooth typing experience, lacking any tactile feedback or click, which makes it ideal for users who prioritize fluidity and speed in their keystrokes, typically preferred in gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios.

In conclusion, when comparing the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the primary distinction lies in their sound and feel characteristics. The Dustproof Blue provides an audible click and tactile feedback, making it a great option for those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience. The Tomcat, with its resonant sound and smooth linear action, caters to users seeking a quieter, more seamless interaction. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you value auditory feedback and tactile sensations or prefer a smoother and quieter operation.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile and audible typing experience that provides satisfying feedback, the Dustproof Blue may be the ideal choice. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams might be more suitable for those who prefer a firmer keypress, and its clicky sound can enhance the sensation of each stroke, making it perfect for typing enthusiasts and those who appreciate a more traditional mechanical keyboard feel. However, if you favor a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Bsun Tomcat with its medium-light bottom out force of 54 grams could be a better fit. With its Ly stems designed for an incredibly smooth keypress and a resonant sound profile, the Tomcat excels in scenarios where rapid typing or gaming is involved, allowing for quicker actuation without the noise distraction. Consider what you value most in your keyboard experience—whether it’s the tactile feedback of the Dustproof Blue or the fluidity of the Tomcat—as you make your decision.

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