Outemu Silent Grey vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Silent Grey and the Bsun Tomcat represent two distinct categories that cater to different user preferences. The Outemu Silent Grey is a tactile switch renowned for its quiet operation and pronounced bump, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a satisfying typing experience without the clatter often associated with mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat is a linear switch that boasts a super smooth keystroke and a resonant sound profile, appealing to users who prefer an unobstructed and fluid typing feel. While the Silent Grey is ideal for typists seeking a tactile and silent performance, the Tomcat offers a seamless experience perfect for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Silent Grey Tactile

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$3.10 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Grey and the Bsun Tomcat, it’s notable that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. The use of this material results in a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile, largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer properties, which contribute to clarity in sound resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, enabling a luminous aesthetic that appeals particularly to gaming enthusiasts. Therefore, whether one chooses the Silent Grey or the Tomcat, both switches promise a similar acoustic performance in terms of sharpness and brightness when a key is released.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which leads to a noticeably different sound experience when the keys are pressed. Nylon's softer plastic nature results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing sound more effectively than its harder counterparts. This material choice significantly influences the tactile feedback and sound dynamics upon bottoming out the switch, creating a more muted, rounder sound that contrasts the high-pitched tones contributed by the polycarbonate top. As a result, when typing on either switch, the interaction between the two materials heightens the overall auditory experience, blending the crispness of the top with the depth of the bottom.

Ultimately, while the Silent Grey and Tomcat differ in sound profiles due to the interplay between their respective top and bottom housings, the similarities in their materials at the top provide a cohesive auditory experience. Users can expect similar results in terms of the high-end sound profile when keys are released, alongside a deeper and fuller tone when keys hit the bottom, due to the nylon, offering a comprehensive dual-layer sound characteristic that appeals to different typing preferences. Thus, both switches present a well-rounded option for enthusiasts seeking balance in their keyboard experience.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Grey has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, positioning it in the medium-heavy category. In contrast, the Tomcat is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This makes the Tomcat better suited for individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Silent Grey offers a more substantial feel that some users may find satisfying. Ultimately, those who prioritize ease of use might lean towards the Tomcat, whereas those who enjoy a firmer push and the tactile feedback from the Silent Grey may prefer its heavier forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, it's clear that the Silent Grey offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat measures at a shorter 3.6 mm. This slight difference in travel distance can influence user experience significantly. For gamers or users who prioritize responsiveness, the Tomcat's shorter 3.6 mm travel may offer quicker key presses, facilitating faster reaction times. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel and depth in their keystrokes may gravitate towards the Silent Grey, as its 4 mm travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile experience. Therefore, if you prefer a swifter response, the Bsun Tomcat is the better choice, whereas the Outemu Silent Grey is suited for those who enjoy deeper, more deliberate presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is designed to be notably quiet while delivering a tactile feedback, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. Its sound profile is muted, ensuring that typists can enjoy a satisfying experience without disturbing others nearby. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch has a resonant sound profile, which may produce more audible feedback during use, especially due to its linear design that tends to accentuate the sound of keystrokes. The choice of keyboard and keycaps can influence the sound produced by either switch; however, generally speaking, the Silent Grey prioritizes discretion while the Tomcat gives a more prominent acoustic presence.

When considering the feel of these switches, the Silent Grey provides a pronounced tactile bump that makes it satisfying to type on, allowing users to feel the activation point with each keystroke. This tactile feedback is complemented by a smooth keystroke that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch focuses on delivering a super smooth typing experience without any tactile bump, which can appeal to those who prefer the fluidity of linear switches. This creates a different sensation, where each keypress feels seamless and continuous, appealing to those who favor rapid typing without interruption.

In summary, if you favor a quiet yet tactile experience, the Outemu Silent Grey switch stands out as an excellent choice, providing both noise control and satisfying feedback. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch offers a smooth and resonant typing experience, perfect for those who appreciate uninterrupted flow and sound. Ultimately, both switches cater to specific preferences—whether you prefer tactile feedback with a quieter operation or a smooth, more audible linear experience, you can select based on the qualities that suit your typing style best.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a quiet and satisfying typing experience, especially in shared environments where noise is a concern, the Silent Grey is an excellent option. Its notable tactile bump provides feedback that many find rewarding, making it suitable for both typing and gaming when you want to enjoy a smooth keystroke while keeping things discreet. On the other hand, if you prefer a light touch and a silky-smooth feel with minimal resistance, the Tomcat switch would be your go-to. It is particularly advantageous for fast-paced gaming where quick, fluid keystrokes are essential, plus it delivers a resonant sound profile that adds a distinctive character to every press. Ultimately, your decision should align with the balance you seek between tactile feedback and a smooth, linear experience, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard truly suits your typing or gaming style.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silent Grey Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more