SP-Star RedBlue vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star RedBlue and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both offer linear experiences tailored to different preferences, making them excellent choices for various users. The RedBlue switches are renowned for their medium-light typing experience, featuring a low-pitched sound profile that strikes a balance between subtle and pleasant. This makes them particularly suited for typists who appreciate a refined touch without overwhelming auditory feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches provide a heavier actuation and a super smooth feel, complemented by a resonant sound profile that caters to those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. While both switches offer a linear typing experience, the choice ultimately hinges on whether you prefer a lighter, more understated touch with the RedBlue or a satisfying, robust feedback from the Tomcat (Heavy). 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
64g
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
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
Gold plated
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star RedBlue and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both feature polycarbonate as their top housing material, which contributes significantly to their auditory characteristics. The use of polycarbonate lends itself to a sharper, high-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's rigidity. This rigidity enhances resonance, ensuring that key presses produce a clear and articulate sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for applications with RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through effectively, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Thus, from a performance and visual perspective, both switches are remarkably similar, leading to a consistent sound profile experience when compared.
Contrasting the bottom housings, the SP-Star RedBlue utilizes polycarbonate while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) opts for nylon. This difference in materials imparts distinct characteristics to the switches. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a high-pitched sound profile, while nylon, recognized for its softer nature, absorbs sound and results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. Consequently, the RedBlue’s bottom housing will produce a sharper sound when the key is pressed down, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) will provide a more rounded sound, enriching the typing experience with a different feel. The auditory quality associated with each switch is thus contingent not only on the top housing but also on the specific effects that the bottom housing material introduces.
In practical terms, while the sound profiles produced by the SP-Star RedBlue and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) differ due to their bottom housing materials, both switches can still be effective when it comes to achieving a satisfying typing experience. Key presses are inherently influenced by the combination of both the top and bottom housings. Therefore, even if the auditory output varies—crisp with the RedBlue and rich with the Tomcat—users may find enjoyment in both types of sound. This diversity allows for a range of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts, as the final auditory and tactile experience is nuanced by the interplay between the materials used in each housing type.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The RedBlue switch has an unspecified actuation force, but it does feature a bottom out force of 57 grams, classified as medium-light, making it potentially easier on the fingers for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch has a defined actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This means that typists who prefer a heavier feel may gravitate towards the Tomcat switch for its more substantial typing experience. Consequently, while the RedBlue switch may be more suitable for those who favor longer, less strenuous use, the Tomcat (Heavy) is geared towards users looking for a firmer press. Overall, the Tomcat is the heavier switch due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, making it divergent from the lighter feel of the RedBlue switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different user preferences. The RedBlue switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it one of the traditional options that some users may find more satisfying for its deeper actuation feel. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive keypress, especially beneficial for gamers seeking speed in their keystrokes. Therefore, if you favor a hearty depth in your typing experience, the RedBlue would be the better choice, while the Tomcat (Heavy) would suit those who lean towards quicker, more abrupt feedback. Ultimately, each switch serves different needs, with the RedBlue having the longer travel distance and the Tomcat (Heavy) providing the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 considering the sound profile of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, you can expect a relatively low-pitched, thocky tone that is both deep and satisfying when a key is pressed. This switch is designed to produce a richer sound, which might correlate well with a more pleasant typing experience. The sound is neutral enough to make it suitable for various environments, whether you’re at home or work. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch features a resonant sound profile, though specific qualities of its sound haven’t been elaborated on. Given that sound also heavily depends on the keyboard build and keycaps you choose, both switches could potentially yield unique and enjoyable auditory experiences depending on these factors.
Regarding the feel of these switches, the RedBlue offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild nature of the switch ensures that it provides a gentle interaction, making it accessible for users at any skill level. Its polished finish allows for ultra-smooth key travel, minimizing friction and enhancing overall comfort. On the other hand, details about the feel of the Tomcat (Heavy) switch are not specified, leaving a gap in direct comparison for this aspect. However, the description of its Ly stems suggests it may also provide a smooth typing experience, albeit without the comprehensive details noted for the RedBlue.
In summary, both the SP-Star RedBlue and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches offer attributes that cater to specific typing preferences, though the available information gives us a clearer picture of the RedBlue's sound and feel. The RedBlue's low-pitched and thocky sound, along with its mild and polished feel, outlines it as a versatile option suitable for many users. While the Tomcat (Heavy) promises a resonant sound and smooth feel, its lack of detailed characteristics leaves some uncertainty. Ultimately, if you seek a defined auditory and tactile experience, the RedBlue may stand out more, while the Tomcat could appeal to those craving a touch of mystery alongside its heavy linear actuation.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and how you plan to use your keyboard. If you favor a medium-light typing experience that is smooth, approachable, and provides a low-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue is an excellent choice. Its thocky nature and polished feel make it well-suited for both casual typing and office environments, allowing for a pleasant experience whether you're gaming or working. On the other hand, if you enjoy a firmer typing experience and are looking for a switch that offers a more resonant sound, the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is the way to go. With a higher bottom-out force of 64 grams, it provides a more substantial feel that can enhance your typing or gaming sessions if you prefer tactile feedback. Ultimately, consider your own comfort and the type of use you envision—whether that leans towards lighter, smoother key presses or a heavier, more deliberate typing experience.
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