KTT Pine vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Pine and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Pine switches are celebrated for their medium-heavy feel and buttery smoothness, creating an effortless typing experience enhanced by a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction. These switches are ideal for those who enjoy a softer yet tactile touch, coupled with a low-pitched, bassy sound profile that adds a distinctive auditory element to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches, featuring special Ly stems, promise a super smooth typing experience replete with a resonant sound profile that some users may find particularly satisfying and engaging. While the KTT Pine offers a creamy, soothing feel perfect for long typing sessions, the Tomcat (Heavy) caters to enthusiasts seeking a more pronounced auditory profile with heftier resistance. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The KTT Pine and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a comparable acoustic performance and aesthetic appeal. The polycarbonate material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as it is a relatively stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. This feature is particularly beneficial for users interested in RGB lighting setups, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the light to pass through effectively. Since both switches share this common housing material, users can expect a similar sound experience and brightness when utilizing them in illuminated environments.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the two switches diverge significantly. The KTT Pine utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which continues the trend of a sharper sound profile. However, it contrasts with the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), which features a nylon bottom housing. This choice alters the acoustic character of the switch, as nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, while the Pine might produce a more consistent auditory response throughout the keystroke, the Tomcat (Heavy) will offer a distinct experience, with a more pronounced impact felt during typing due to the nylon’s inherent qualities.
The differences in the bottom housing materials also influence the overall feel and sound of each switch. With the KTT Pine, users can expect a more uniform sound experience as both the top and bottom contribute to a similar higher-pitched tone. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy)'s sound experience is bifurcated—the nylon bottom housing dampens the sound profile significantly during key presses while the polycarbonate top housing allows for an enhanced resonance upon release. Therefore, the KTT Pine ensures a cohesive sound across the entire keystroke, whereas the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) showcases a unique interplay between sharpness and depth, providing an interesting contrast in tactile feedback and auditory performance.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Pine linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. The KTT Pine has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it suitable for users who favor a more effortless typing experience over extended periods. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, which appeals to those who enjoy a more substantial and resistant feel while typing or gaming. This means that if you prefer a lighter switch, the KTT Pine would be a better choice, whereas those seeking a firm push should opt for the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy). Overall, these differences in force characteristics allow users to choose a switch that best aligns with their typing or gaming habits.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Pine linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, it is evident that the Pine offers a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) has a shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly influence user experience; those who favor a more responsive feel might opt for the Tomcat (Heavy), as its shorter travel distance aligns with the trend towards quick actuation favored by many gamers. Conversely, users who prefer a more substantial and hearty depth in their keystrokes may find the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Pine more satisfying, providing a more pronounced tactile experience. Overall, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Tomcat (Heavy) is the better choice, whereas the Pine suits those who enjoy greater depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) 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 it comes to sound, the KTT Pine Linear switch offers a distinct bassy quality, characterized by a deeper and richer sound profile that delivers low-pitched tones upon key presses. This results in a more resonant auditory experience that many users find satisfying, particularly in a mechanical keyboard setup where acoustics can significantly enhance the typing environment. On the other hand, details regarding the sound profile of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch are currently unknown. It's essential to note that the overall sound experience can vary depending on factors such as the keyboard frame and keycap material, so individual preferences may still play a significant role.
Regarding feel, the KTT Pine switch excels with its buttery smoothness and creamy sensation, providing a seamless and uniform typing experience. The factory lubrication, in conjunction with its design, contributes to a fluid keystroke that feels effortless and engaging. In contrast, there is no specific information available on the feel of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, which leaves a notable gap in understanding how it may compare with the Pine's smooth and buttery texture.
In conclusion, while the KTT Pine features a rich sound profile and an incredibly smooth feel due to its factory-lubed finish, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch's qualities remain unclear, particularly in sound and feel. For newcomers, the KTT Pine switch already showcases a capable performance, providing both auditory enjoyment and a satisfying tactile experience. If you prefer a buttery and creamy typing sensation, the Pine might be the ideal choice, but additional research or testing may be necessary to draw a more direct comparison with the Tomcat (Heavy).
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Pine linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a lower actuation force, the KTT Pine switch might be your best bet. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, it caters well to casual typists and gamers who value comfort and a subtle yet bassy sound profile. The polished factory-lubed design enhances the typing experience, making every keystroke feel effortless. On the other hand, if you desire a heavier switch that provides a firmer feedback and resonates more in sound, you should consider the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch. With a bottom out force of 64 grams, it is slightly more demanding, which can be appealing for users who prefer a more tactile engagement while typing or gaming. The unique characteristics of the Tomcat, with its Ly stems, may also enhance your experience if you enjoy deeper or more pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, assess your typing style, how much resistance you prefer, and the sound profile that pleases you to make the best choice between these two exceptional switches.
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