KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Phalaenopsis and Bsun Tomcat offer two distinct experiences that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Phalaenopsis, celebrated for its beautiful translucent design, features a light actuation force of just 37g, allowing for effortless typing and reduced finger fatigue during extended use. Its 50g tactile force delivers a satisfying bump with each keystroke, classified as 'Bassy,' 'Stepped,' and 'Thocky,' which many users find pleasurable and engaging. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat excels with its Ly stems, providing a super smooth linear action that makes for a whisper-quiet typing experience. While the Tomcat lacks a tactile feedback mechanism, its resonant sound profile is appealing for those who prefer a seamless, uninterrupted input. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to the balance between tactile sensation and smoothness, making each a commendable option based on your individual needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The KTT Phalaenopsis and Bsun Tomcat switches both feature polycarbonate material for their top housings, which contributes to a similar auditory experience when typing. Polycarbonate's superior stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making the act of typing a more dynamic and engaging experience. This shared material choice also allows both switches to effectively utilize RGB lighting, as their translucency enhances visual aesthetics, creating striking light effects through the switch. Because both models exhibit similar acoustic properties in their top housings, users can expect a comparable sound quality when keys are released, highlighting the clarity brought by polycarbonate.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches differ significantly, with the KTT Phalaenopsis utilizing polycarbonate while the Bsun Tomcat employs nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis maintains the sharper sound quality characteristic of the top housing, leading to a more consistent auditory profile throughout the switch. Conversely, the Tomcat's nylon bottom housing shifts the sound dynamics to a deeper, fuller tone, producing a noticeably rounder and duller sound when bottoming out. This discrepancy means that while users may enjoy a cohesive sound experience with the Phalaenopsis, the Tomcat will reveal a more varied acoustic profile characterized by its softer nylon material.
Ultimately, the differences in bottom housing materials mean that the KTT Phalaenopsis will provide a more unified sound signature, while the Bsun Tomcat will present an intriguing contrast that emphasizes tactile feedback through its nylon housing. The sound experience during actuation will predominantly stem from the bottom housing, while the release sound will still echo the traits of the top polycarbonate. For users who appreciate a diverse auditory palette, the Tomcat's nylon may provide a unique tonal depth, while those preferring consistency may lean towards the Phalaenopsis. Regardless of the choice, both switches leverage strategic housing materials to create a distinct typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch to the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Phalaenopsis features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who favor a lighter touch for long typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Tomcat has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel with their keystrokes. This difference indicates that the Phalaenopsis allows for a quicker and more fluid typing experience due to its lighter forces, while the Tomcat provides a bit more resistance, which some typists may find more satisfying. Therefore, the Phalaenopsis is the lighter option, while the Tomcat is the heavier one for both actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This slight difference contributes to distinct preferences among users; the Phalaenopsis, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more satisfying and substantial experience for those who favor a deeper key press, making it suitable for typing enthusiasts. Conversely, the Tomcat, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers or users who prioritize rapid response times and efficiency in their keystrokes. For those seeking a quicker actuation, the Tomcat would be the better choice, while the Phalaenopsis may feel more traditional and robust. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether the user values a deeper or more rapid keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the sound profile of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch to the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the Phalaenopsis stands out with its unique characteristics. The Phalaenopsis is noted for its bassy and thocky sounds, which provide a deeper, richer audio experience reminiscent of a soft thud or gentle knock when a key is depressed or released. This resonant quality can make typing more enjoyable for those who appreciate auditory feedback. In contrast, the Tomcat switch offers no specific sound descriptors, indicating that its sound profile may be less pronounced. Ultimately, while both switches can provide satisfying audio experiences, the Phalaenopsis will likely offer a more engaging sound for those who prioritize acoustics in their typing sessions.
The tactile feel of these switches presents a more defined difference. The KTT Phalaenopsis features a stepped tactile design, which offers a discernible bump at the actuation point but remains more mild compared to hypertactile switches. The two-stage feel allows typists to recognize the moment of actuation without an overwhelming tactile response, adding to the overall comfort during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Tomcat switch lacks a described tactile feel, suggesting a smooth linear experience that might appeal to those who prefer consistent resistance without any tactile interruption. This difference in feel could significantly influence a typist's preference, particularly for those who enjoy feedback during their keystrokes.
In conclusion, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch both cater to different aspects of the typing experience. With its bassy and thocky sound profile, the Phalaenopsis provides an engaging auditory feedback, whereas the Tomcat's sound quality remains unspecified. When it comes to feel, the Phalaenopsis offers a stepped tactile sensation, enhancing user interaction during typing, while the Tomcat switch promises super smooth keystrokes with no additional tactile feedback. Depending on an individual's preference for sound and tactile feedback, one may find themselves favoring the Phalaenopsis for its more textured experience or the Tomcat for its linear simplicity.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek. If you prioritize a lighter keystroke with minimal finger fatigue, especially during extended typing sessions, the Phalaenopsis is an excellent option for you. Its light actuation force of 37 grams makes every key press feel effortless, while the tactile bump at 50 grams provides satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. Additionally, if you enjoy a bassy and thocky sound profile that can enhance your tactile experience, the Phalaenopsis will likely bring joy to your typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you're in search of a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch might be the way to go. Although it has a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 54 grams, its Ly stems promote a super smooth keystroke that many users find appealing. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a more linear feel without any tactile interruptions. Therefore, consider your specific needs—if you desire tactile feedback and a rich sound, go with the Phalaenopsis; if you favor smoothness and subtlety, the Tomcat will serve you well.
Mentioned in this article
