Outemu Silver vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When searching for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Silver and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) emerge as strong contenders, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Outemu Silver is designed for users who appreciate a straightforward, smooth action, providing a linear feel that eliminates tactile feedback for a clean keystroke experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) boasts Ly stems, engineered to deliver an incredibly smooth typing sensation alongside a resonant sound profile that many users find satisfying. While both switches cater to those who prefer linear feedback, their distinct experiences in terms of sound and actuation can influence a user’s choice. The Outemu Silver is ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness without distraction, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) appeals to those who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback during their typing sessions. 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 Silver 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 Silver and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), it becomes evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate in both instances contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's rigidity enhances the overall resonance, allowing for a clear and distinct auditory feedback when the switches are engaged. This characteristic makes both switches particularly appealing to gamers and typists who appreciate an articulate sound when typing, especially in configurations featuring RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency.

In contrast to the top housings, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which influences the sound profile in a different way. Nylon is known for its comparatively softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound rather than amplify it. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when the switches are bottomed out. Therefore, while the top housing contributes to the clarity and brightness of the sound produced, the nylon bottom housing adds a rounded and more muted quality. Both the Outemu Silver and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) thus create distinctive auditory experiences derived from their complementary materials, balancing sharpness with depth and fullness.

The combined use of polycarbonate and nylon across both types of switches leads to a consistent sound experience characterized by the unique interplay between the two materials. When you engage either switch, you'll notice that the polycarbonate's rigidity affects the sound when you release a key, while the nylon absorbs more sound during the actuation. As both switches share these identical housing materials, users can expect a similarly gratifying and refined experience, whether it be while gaming or typing, resulting in a harmonized auditory response regardless of the specific model chosen.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, distinct differences emerge that appeal to varying preferences among typists and gamers. The Outemu Silver features an actuation force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option, while its bottom out force is measured at 65 grams. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 64 grams. Although the bottom out forces are quite close, with the Tomcat being marginally lighter at that point, the heavier actuation force of the Tomcat adds to a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, individuals who favor a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions might prefer the Outemu Silver, while those seeking a firmer keystroke may gravitate toward the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) for its increased actuation force. Ultimately, users will find that these switches cater to specific tactile preferences based on their desired weight for prolonged use versus the sensation of a stronger push.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, it's clear that there is a notable difference. The Outemu Silver switch boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option that offers a deeper typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This reduced distance can provide users with quicker response times, a quality that is often favored by gamers seeking enhanced performance. However, while the Tomcat switch offers a slightly shallower feel, some users might find it too abrupt compared to the more substantial travel of the Silver switch. Thus, if you prefer a more cushioned and hearty typing experience, the Outemu Silver is preferable, whereas the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) caters to those who appreciate a snappier response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not have any specific characteristics highlighted, making it difficult to provide a definitive impression. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is known for its resonant sound profile, which suggests that it produces a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. Keep in mind that the sound can vary widely based on the keyboard's construction and keycap choice, so while Tomcat switches may resonate more, the actual experience will depend on your specific setup.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Silver is not particularly noted for any standout qualities, which may imply a more standard or neutral typing experience. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch is recognized for its Ly stems that contribute to an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This smoothness can enhance the overall comfort and enjoyment during extended typing sessions, making the Tomcat switch more desirable for those who prioritize a fluid keystroke. Overall, the Tomcat (Heavy) seems to offer a more polished tactile experience compared to the Silvers.

In summary, while the Outemu Silver linear switch lacks specific strengths in terms of sound and feel, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch offers a resonant sound profile and a notably smooth typing experience due to its design features. If you're looking for a more engaging auditory and tactile experience, the Tomcat (Heavy) appears to be the better choice, whereas the Outemu Silver may serve as a straightforward option for those who prefer simplicity without specific preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the choice largely depends on your specific preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. If you tend to prefer a smooth, resonant typing experience with an emphasis on tactile satisfaction, the Tomcat (Heavy) is an excellent choice thanks to its Ly stems, which enhance the overall smoothness. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more audible sound profile, making it perfect for creating a satisfying auditory feedback during use. On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch that provides a consistent and reliable performance without specific standout features, the Outemu Silver linear might suit you better. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams, it might provide a little more resistance, which can be appealing if you prefer a firmer keystroke that allows for better control when typing or gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and how you feel while using the keyboard in everyday situations.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more