Everglide Rice Pudding vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Everglide Rice Pudding and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your overall typing experience. The Everglide Rice Pudding switch, known for its smooth operation and deep sound, strikes an ideal balance between satisfying feedback and precise keystrokes. Perfectly compatible with Wooting's innovative keyboards, this hall effect switch appeals to enthusiasts seeking versatility and performance. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch delivers a super smooth typing experience with its Ly stems and a resonant sound profile that many users find appealing. This linear switch excels in providing a consistently smooth keystroke without the tactile bumps often found in other switch types. While both switches cater to different preferences—one aiming for a well-rounded performance and compatibility, and the other focusing on smoothness and sound—each offers unique benefits to users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Custom stainless steel
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Rice Pudding and the Bsun Tomcat, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This shared material significantly influences the auditory experience of both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate yields a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that enhances clarity and resonance. This is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize audible feedback during typing, as both switches will deliver a rich sound experience. Moreover, polycarbonate's translucency allows for effective RGB lighting integration, ensuring that both switches can showcase vibrant lighting effects without compromising their acoustic properties.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both the Rice Pudding and Tomcat are made from nylon, a classic choice known for its unique sound characteristics. Nylon's comparatively softer texture contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a warm, rounded auditory experience. As a result, when typing on either switch, users will notice a difference in the sound produced when bottoming out, largely influenced by the nylon material. This combination of a crisp polycarbonate top and a soft nylon bottom allows both switches to balance the best of both materials, offering a nuanced auditory experience that caters to a variety of typing preferences.
Overall, while the Everglide Rice Pudding and Bsun Tomcat differ in how their sound profiles are created—one through the polycarbonate top and the other through the nylon bottom—their use of similar materials results in a cohesive experience for users. The harmonious blend of materials ensures each switch provides distinct auditory feedback while maintaining compatibility with RGB lighting. If one seeks a typing experience that is sharp yet warm, both switches will aptly deliver on these qualities, showcasing the strengths of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch to the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, we can see distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Rice Pudding switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during prolonged use. Conversely, the Tomcat switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, offering a more substantial push feel that some typists or gamers might prefer. In terms of bottom out forces, the Rice Pudding has a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Tomcat’s bottom out force is 54 grams, again leaning towards the heavier side. This means that for those looking for a lighter switch overall, the Everglide Rice Pudding is the better choice, providing a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, whereas the Bsun Tomcat caters to those who appreciate the tactile feedback of a stronger keystroke.
Travel distance
The Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat linear switch extends slightly further with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Rice Pudding switch offers a slightly shorter actuation compared to the Tomcat switch. For those who prioritize quick response times, the Rice Pudding may be the more appealing choice due to its lower travel distance, which aligns with the trend of shorter distances favored by gamers. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback might prefer the Tomcat, which provides a 0.1 mm increase in travel distance, contributing to a more pronounced keystroke experience. Ultimately, whether optimizing for speed or depth, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
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 it comes to sound, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch stands out for its deep and resonant profile, offering a satisfying auditory experience that enhances the overall typing enjoyment. This deep sound complements its smooth operation, creating a harmonious balance for users. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switch also features a resonant sound, likely providing a rich auditory feedback that many users find appealing. Both switches emphasize sound quality, although the exact timbre may vary depending on the keyboard and keycap choices you pair them with.
In regard to feel, the Rice Pudding switch is known for delivering a balanced typing experience that combines smooth operation with a satisfying tactile response. Its design ensures precision, making each keystroke feel intentional and rewarding. Conversely, the Tomcat switch is equipped with Ly stems, which are specifically engineered to enhance smoothness during typing. This construction promises an exceptionally fluid keystroke, although the exact tactile feedback isn’t detailed. Users can expect a generally smooth experience from both switches, albeit with different degrees of tactile feedback depending on their specific design nuances.
Overall, both the Everglide Rice Pudding and Bsun Tomcat linear switches cater to typists seeking smooth and engaging performance. The Rice Pudding offers a deep, resonant sound with a well-balanced feel, while the Tomcat focuses on smooth operation with its specialized stem design. Enthusiasts will appreciate the unique qualities of each option, allowing them to choose based on their auditory and tactile preferences. Regardless of your selection, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience that is likely to delight newcomers and seasoned users alike.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch should hinge on your specific typing preferences and use case scenarios. If you are seeking a lighter switch that offers a harmonious blend of smooth operation and a satisfying deep sound, the Rice Pudding is your best bet. Its lower bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, providing a comfortable experience without excessive fatigue. Additionally, its compatibility with Wooting’s innovative keyboards positions it as an appealing option for tech enthusiasts who value both performance and versatility. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides a bit more resistance while still delivering a smooth tactile sensation, the Tomcat, with its medium-light 54-gram actuation force, is worth considering. Its Ly stems offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, and while its sound profile resonates nicely, it might be better suited for users who enjoy a bit more weight in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your desired typing dynamics—whether you lean towards the light and versatile nature of the Rice Pudding or the slightly firmer and equally enjoyable feel of the Tomcat.
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