KTT Rose vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Rose and Bsun Tomcat offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The KTT Rose switches are renowned for their aesthetically pleasing design and unique performance characteristics, featuring progressive springs that create a typing experience that feels substantial yet effortlessly light. Typists will appreciate the gentle, low-pitched sound reminiscent of bassy raindrops, offering a soothing auditory backdrop during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches prioritize smoothness above all, thanks to their specialized Ly stems that facilitate an incredibly fluid keystroke. While the Tomcat provides a more resonant sound profile, which some users may find energizing, others may prefer the refined elegance of the Rose switch. Each switch has compelling reasons to be chosen based on individual typing preferences and desired feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
Progressive spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The KTT Rose and the Bsun Tomcat switches share several similarities in their housing materials, which contribute to their overall sound profiles and performance characteristics. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate lends itself to better resonance, making the auditory experience more pronounced. Additionally, both switches' translucent top housings are ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, enhancing aesthetic appeal for users who prioritize visual components in their keyboard setups. These parallel characteristics suggest that users can expect a similarly clear and vibrant sound profile from either switch due to the reliance on polycarbonate as a shared material.
Contrastingly, the bottom housing of the KTT Rose and the Bsun Tomcat is made from nylon, which sets the foundation for a deeper, fuller sound profile. The choice of nylon, a softer plastic, is instrumental in absorbing sound, resulting in a rounder and less pronounced auditory experience compared to polycarbonate. This difference in material for the bottom housing highlights the duality within each switch: while the polycarbonate top enhances the clarity and brightness of key presses, the nylon bottom contributes warmth and depth. Thus, when typing on either switch, users will experience a blend of sharpness from the top housing and a more subdued response from the bottom, creating a balanced auditory and tactile experience.
In summary, while the KTT Rose and the Bsun Tomcat switches exhibit distinct differences in the properties of their bottom housing materials, their shared polycarbonate top housing ensures a consistent crispness and clarity in sound. The nylon bottom contributes depth, providing a rich foundation to the overall auditory experience. This combination creates a nuanced sound profile that merges the high-pitched clarity of polycarbonate with the fuller tones of nylon, allowing users to achieve a satisfying typing experience irrespective of which switch they choose. Ultimately, both designs leverage the strengths of their respective materials to offer a compelling balance of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Rose linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there's a notable distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Rose's actuation force is unspecified, but its bottom out force is measured at 63.5 grams, indicating that it provides a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat has a clearly defined actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, which places it in the medium-light category. As a result, while the Rose could potentially offer a comparable typing experience since its bottom out force is heavier, the Tomcat is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users looking to type for extended periods or those who prefer a gentler touch. Conversely, the Rose’s heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who favor a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, users should consider their preferences for typing comfort and force sensitivity when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the Rose stands out with a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat offers a shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that users who opt for the Rose might enjoy a more pronounced keystroke, providing a deeper typing experience that can feel more substantial and satisfying. In contrast, the Tomcat, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who prefer quicker, more responsive key presses, making it ideal for gamers who benefit from faster response times. If users prioritize a more pronounced feedback in their typing experience, the KTT Rose would be the preferred choice, whereas those who favor quicker actuation and less force during their key presses might gravitate toward the Bsun Tomcat. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches hinges on personal preference regarding keystroke depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Rose comes in at $3.01, whereas the Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99.
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
The KTT Rose linear switch emits a sound profile characterized by its low-pitched, bassy tones, resembling the soothing sound of raindrops. This warm and mellow auditory experience makes it suitable for various environments, blending seamlessly into both home and office settings. With its neutral sound, the Rose offers versatility that caters to all types of users, from beginners to more experienced typists. However, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch lacks detailed sound descriptions, making it hard to determine how it compares to the Rose. While the Tomcat is noted for its resonant sound profile, the specifics of that resonance remain unclear, leaving a gap in the comparison.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Rose puts forth a mildly pronounced typing experience, allowing for a gentle and approachable interaction with each keystroke. Its polished characteristics further enhance this experience, providing a sense of refinement due to high-quality materials or effective factory lubing practices. The result is reduced friction and smooth key travel, which many users find appealing. In contrast, there is little information about the tactile feedback or feel of the Bsun Tomcat switch, leaving its nuances and performance open to speculation.
In summary, the KTT Rose linear switch stands out for its harmonious sound and refined feel, making it an excellent option for those seeking comfort and auditory satisfaction while typing. The Tomcat switch, while praised for its smooth operation, lacks comprehensive details on its sound and feel qualities, making it a less straightforward choice for newcomers. If you prioritize auditory experience and tactile delight, the Rose offers a clearer advantage, but if you’re drawn to the promise of smoothness, you may wish to explore the Tomcat further as well.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between KTT Rose and Bsun Tomcat linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience characterized by a smooth and somewhat bassy sound profile, the KTT Rose switch is a fantastic option. Its substantial feel, combined with progressive springs, makes it particularly suitable for users who appreciate a more tactile typing sensation, whether for gaming or typing long documents at work. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with an emphasis on an ultra-smooth typing experience, the Bsun Tomcat switch may be the better choice. With its medium-light bottom-out force and resonant sound profile, it caters well to those who seek efficiency and comfort, especially during fast-paced typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the environments in which you will use your keyboard to make the best choice between these two appealing options.
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