Akko Rosewood vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Rosewood and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Akko Rosewood switch is renowned for its deep, satisfying thocky sound, expertly enhanced by a factory-applied layer of lubricant, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize auditory feedback and a soothing typing experience. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) boasts a design that incorporates Ly stems, delivering an exceptionally smooth keypress and a resonant sound profile that many users find delightful. Both switches cater to users looking for linear response without tactile bumps, but they differ significantly in sound characteristics and overall typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Akko Rosewood Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Rosewood and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), we find notable differences in the sound profiles created by their respective top housings. The Akko Rosewood utilizes nylon for its top housing, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is largely attributed to nylon's softer properties, which allow it to absorb sound more effectively than its harder counterparts. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) employs polycarbonate for its top housing. This material's stiffer nature results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound, contributing to a crisper auditory experience. While both materials serve the purpose of housing switches, their divergent properties yield distinct auditory effects that will appeal to different user preferences.

Both the Akko Rosewood and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) feature nylon for their bottom housings, creating a commonality that results in a similar bottom-out sound and tactile feel. Since nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its sound absorption qualities, both switches will maintain the deeper, fuller sound associated with this material for the keystroke's bottom-out phase. This shared aspect of their construction ensures that regardless of the top housing's material, users will experience a consistent feel when bottoming out on either switch. The effective absorption characteristic means that while the top housing impacts sound when releasing the key, the bottom housing preserves the fuller profile during use.

Ultimately, these differences in top housing materials—nylon versus polycarbonate—imply that the two switches can offer was effectively complementary experiences. The Akko Rosewood provides a deeper auditory profile when pressing and releasing keys, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) accentuates the higher pitches and clarity upon release. However, due to both switches sharing nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect a consistent tactile feedback despite the distinct sound variations caused by their top housing materials. Therefore, individuals might find that while the auditory and aesthetic experiences differ, the underlying tactile sensation remains a constant attribute across these two different switches.

Weight

The Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences. The Rosewood switch has a notably lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who favor extended typing sessions or gaming due to reduced strain on the fingers. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users might prefer for a firmer typing experience. Consequently, while the Rosewood is designed for ease and comfort during prolonged use, the Tomcat (Heavy) appeals to those who appreciate a heftier resistance. Ultimately, this comparison highlights how the choice between a lighter switch and a medium-heavy one can significantly impact user experience, depending on individual preferences for comfort versus feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we find a notable difference. The Rosewood switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with traditional preferences for deeper keystrokes, providing a more pronounced tactile feel. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who favor a quicker response time and potentially a lighter feel when typing or gaming. Consequently, if responsiveness is your priority, the Tomcat (Heavy) would be the better choice. However, if you appreciate a more substantial depth in your key presses, the Rosewood switch is the superior option. Overall, the Akko Rosewood's travel distance is longer, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offers a shorter travel distance, appealing to varying user preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Rosewood linear switch is renowned for its deep, satisfying thocky sound that emanates directly from its construction. This auditory quality is enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, which contributes to a more refined sound profile right off the bat. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch offers a resonant sound profile, characterized by a distinct tonal quality that can be equally engaging, but does not specify the exact nature of its sound. It's important to note that the final sound experience for both switches will largely depend on the keyboard frame and keycaps used, which can influence their acoustics significantly.

When it comes to feel, the Rosewood switch has a reputation for delivering a smooth typing experience, though specific tactile nuances haven't been detailed. Comparatively, the Tomcat (Heavy) is explicitly designed with Ly stems, making it known for its ultra-smooth operation. This implies that users seeking a seamless stroke may prefer the Tomcat (Heavy), whereas the Rosewood might provide a satisfying sensation even if it is less highlighted in the smoothness department.

In conclusion, while both the Akko Rosewood and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Rosewood is celebrated for its rich, thocky sound and general smoothness, while the Tomcat (Heavy) emphasizes an exceptionally smooth typing feel along with a resonant sound profile. Depending on whether you're more attuned to the acoustic characteristics or the tactile feedback, either switch could provide a rewarding typing experience, albeit with different focal points.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you desire. If you favor a lighter actuation force for quick typing and gaming, the Rosewood's 50-gram bottom-out force may suit you well, combined with its deep, satisfying thocky sound that creates an enjoyable auditory feedback straight out of the box. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate comfort and responsiveness without feeling fatigued during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel and a smoother typing experience, the Tomcat (Heavy) with its 64-gram bottom-out force and Ly stems offers a nice balance of resistance and smoothness. It's particularly beneficial for users who enjoy a more deliberate typing style and a resonant sound profile that emphasizes clarity and presence. Ultimately, assessing your typing habits, sound preferences, and the amount of force you like to exert will guide you to the perfect switch for your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more