Jerrzi Poseidon vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Poseidon and Bsun Tomcat both stand out as linear options that cater to different typing preferences. The Poseidon is recognized for its straightforward operation, providing a seamless typing experience without the distractions of tactile feedback or clicky sounds, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a clean and efficient keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat offers an exceptionally smooth feel thanks to its Ly stems, which enhance the fluidity of each keypress while delivering a resonant sound profile that adds an auditory layer to the typing experience. While both switches promise to elevate your typing comfort, the Poseidon focuses on minimalism, whereas the Tomcat emphasizes both smoothness and sound quality. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
stainless steel
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Poseidon and Bsun Tomcat switches exhibit distinct characteristics that significantly influence their sound profiles, resulting in varied tactile experiences for users. The Poseidon features a top housing made from POM (polyoxymethylene), known for delivering a deeper and relatively muted sound. This quality contributes to a unique auditory experience, producing a resonant tone that is appreciated by many who prefer a more subdued feedback when typing. In contrast, the Tomcat's polycarbonate top housing provides a starkly different sound profile; its sharper and crisper characteristics stem from the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material enhances clarity in sound, making it particularly attractive for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory response, especially in setups that utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate amplifies the visual effects of the backlighting.
When examining the bottom housings, the differences continue to play a critical role in defining the overall typing experience. The Poseidon's bottom housing is also made from POM, reinforcing the switch's characteristic sound profile as both top and bottom housings complement each other in creating that deeper, more muted auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Tomcat utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which is widely regarded as a classic switch material. Nylon's softer properties lend a more cushioned feel while typing, absorbing sound to produce a duller, fuller tone. While both switches without a doubt create compelling sound profiles, the pairing of a POM bottom housing with POM's top achieves a specific auditory quality, whereas the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Tomcat switches results in a clearer yet less muted sound signature.
Ultimately, if the top and bottom housings differ between switches, the outcome of the sound and feel can become a combination of materials' effects. Pressing down on the switch emphasizes the qualities of the bottom housing; therefore, the Tomcat's nylon bottom contributes to a deeper bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the Poseidon's entire design, with both top and bottom made from POM, reinforces a cohesive sound experience. Releasing the keys highlights the top housing's influence, showcasing how the sharp sound of the Tomcat's polycarbonate contrasts with the muted tones of the Poseidon. While each switch stands out with its unique auditory signature, the interplay of housing materials ultimately crafts a distinct typing experience that holds merit for different user preferences, catering both to those seeking bell-like clarity and for others who appreciate deeper acoustic feedback.
Weight
The Jerrzi Poseidon and Bsun Tomcat linear switches exhibit distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Poseidon has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it the lighter option between the two, which can benefit users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Tomcat requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, catering to those who favor a more substantial feel while typing. However, the Poseidon does not have a specified bottom out force, whereas the Tomcat has a measurable bottom out force of 54 grams, rated as medium-light. This difference indicates that users of the Tomcat will experience a firmer response when pressing the switch all the way down. Thus, while both switches serve different preferences, the Poseidon is geared towards those seeking a lighter and potentially more comfortable experience, while the Tomcat offers a heavier, more tactile response ideal for users desiring a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Bsun Tomcat linear switches, we see a distinction that may influence user preference. The Poseidon features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Tomcat has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Poseidon offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times for rapid keystrokes. On the other hand, the Tomcat's longer travel distance might provide a more substantial feel and hearty depth, which some users prefer for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and keystroke depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Poseidon has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poseidon for $3.59.
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
In terms of sound, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch does not have an established reputation for any particular audio characteristics, making it challenging to define its sound profile. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is recognized for its resonant sound profile, which contributes to a more pronounced auditory experience during typing. The sound of a mechanical switch can vary greatly based on the keyboard it is used with and the chosen keycaps, so while the Tomcat offers a distinct sound, it's essential to consider how these other factors may influence the overall sound experience for both switches.
Regarding feel, the Poseidon does not offer any specific notable qualities, leaving its tactile impression largely undefined. On the other hand, the Tomcat boasts Ly stems that provide a super smooth typing experience, which is a significant advantage for users who prioritize a refined and fluid keystroke. For those seeking a satisfying touch response, the seamless feel of the Tomcat sets it apart, while the Poseidon may not deliver any defined qualities that enhance the typing experience.
In summary, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch remains somewhat of an enigma without any noteworthy sound or feel qualities providing clear advantages, making it hard to ascertain its appeal. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch demonstrates a distinct resonant sound profile and offers a remarkably smooth typing experience thanks to its Ly stems. For newcomers, if sound and feel are key factors in their selection, the Tomcat is likely the better choice, while the Poseidon's lack of defined traits means it may yield a less exciting typing experience overall.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, your decision largely depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and feedback. If you favor a switch that delivers a unique and tailored solution but lacks specific noted characteristics, you might lean towards the Poseidon—particularly if you appreciate smooth keystrokes with an unknown bottom-out force that emphasizes effortless travel. However, if you prefer a consistent and reliable option with a medium-light actuation force of 54 grams, the Tomcat switch would be an excellent choice. This switch not only features Ly stems designed for a super smooth typing experience but also delivers a resonant sound profile that can enhance your overall typing enjoyment. Ultimately, if you seek a specialized tactile experience that stands out and are willing to explore through the Poseidon, or if you desire the comfort and familiarity of the robust sound and feel of the Tomcat, you will be well-equipped to make an informed choice based on your specific typing needs and preferences.
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