Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When navigating the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Bsun Tomcat can be pivotal for crafting your ideal typing experience. The Semi-Silent Linear is celebrated for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while preserving a satisfying, clacky bottom-out feel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a smooth and subdued typing experience without drawing too much attention. Its silky texture strikes a balance that is described as 'snappy' yet 'buttery', perfect for users who desire a quieter keyboard for both work and play. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat is known for its super smooth typing experience, thanks to its Ly stems, which deliver a resonant sound profile that's pleasing to the ear. While the Tomcat might be best suited for enthusiasts who prioritize a rich auditory feedback along with smooth actuation, both switches cater to different preferences and work environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch to the Bsun Tomcat, it is critical to note that both switches feature a top housing made of polycarbonate. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Both switches benefit from the aesthetic qualities of polycarbonate, particularly its translucency, which enhances the visibility of RGB lighting. Because both switches employ the same material for their top housings, users can expect similar acoustic characteristics and aesthetic results. The shared polycarbonate top thus ensures that both switches deliver a clear and resonant sound experience when activated.
In contrast, the bottom housing of each switch is made from nylon, which is renowned for its softer composition compared to polycarbonate. This difference in materials impacts the overall sound profile produced by each switch. The nylon bottom housing allows for a deeper and fuller sound, effectively absorbing more sound energy compared to the stiffer materials found in the top housing. Consequently, while both the Semi-Silent Linear and the Tomcat attain a crisp sound upon actuation through their polycarbonate tops, they will also exhibit a richer, rounder bottom-out sound due to the nylon composition in their bottom housings. This combination allows both switches to maintain a unique balance between high-pitched clarity and low-frequency warmth in their overall performance.
Both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Bsun Tomcat exhibit cohesion in their design due to their shared use of housing materials, which interact to produce a well-rounded auditory experience. The properties of polycarbonate in the top housing optimize the clarity of the keystroke, while the softer nylon bottom amplifies the depth of sound when the key is pressed down. As a result, despite the differences in branding and potential slight variations in feel or build quality, the essential interplay of polycarbonate and nylon across both switches provides users with similarly satisfying typing experiences and sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Semi-Silent Linear switch has an unspecified actuation force, making it difficult to assess its triggering feel in direct comparison to the Tomcat switch, which boasts a measurable actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Semi-Silent Linear is 62 grams, indicating a firmer feel upon fully pressing the key, while the Tomcat offers a lighter bottom out force of 54 grams. Therefore, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch leans towards a heavier typing experience, whereas the Bsun Tomcat, with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces, provides a more responsive touch that's potentially more suited for longer typing or gaming sessions. Overall, if weight is a priority, the Tomcat may be the preferred choice for users seeking less fatigue over extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, it becomes evident that the two options cater to different user preferences. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat measures slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. Although the difference is minimal, this makes the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear the better choice for those who prefer a more substantial key press, providing a deeper sensation when typing. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal more to gamers seeking quicker response times; shorter travel distances can facilitate faster key actuation. Overall, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Jwick offers a deeper feel, making it preferable for users who favor a more pronounced key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
The sound profile of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a unique blend of acoustic qualities that are particularly appealing for those seeking a quieter typing experience. Its semi-silent designation means it produces a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, providing a balanced auditory experience. This switch can be described as having a subdued and neutral sound, making it suitable for both home and office environments. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is characterized by a resonant sound profile, suggesting that it might be more pronounced and lively, although specific descriptors or nuances for its sound aren't detailed. Therefore, the Semi-Silent Linear might be a preferable choice for users who prioritize a quieter experience, while the Tomcat might appeal to those who enjoy a more resonant and expressive sound when typing.
When it comes to feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is designed for a notably smooth typing experience with descriptors that suggest a gentle, approachable character. It embraces various qualities such as mildness, responsiveness, and a buttery, polished texture, offering a luxurious key travel sensation that feels both refined and lively. This combination makes it an excellent choice for casual typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, specific details regarding the feel of the Bsun Tomcat switches are unknown, but they feature Ly stems that are known for delivering a super smooth typing experience. Depending on the final design of the Tomcat switch, it may offer a comparable level of smoothness or possibly a different tactile sensation altogether.
In summary, both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Bsun Tomcat linear switches have their own merits, appealing to different user preferences. The Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its subtle sound and exceptionally smooth feel, making it ideal for quieter environments and a pleasant typing experience. The Tomcat, while offering the promise of a smooth experience, may cater to users who appreciate a more resonant sound. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a quiet switch with a luxurious feel or a more expressive and possibly louder switch while maintaining a smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, consider your specific typing environment and preferences. If you seek a gently muted experience that blends comfort with the occasional clacky sound, the Semi-Silent Linear is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams paired with its semi-silent nature makes it suitable for both home use and quiet office settings, where noise levels are a concern. This switch offers a silky smooth feel without being overly polished, appealing to those who prefer a more subtle typing experience that still provides a bit of auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more dynamic and smooth typing experience with a lighter touch, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom-out force of 54 grams, this switch is easier to actuate, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers who thrive on responsiveness and a satisfying keypress. Its resonant sound profile, combined with the super smooth Ly stems, will enhance your overall typing experience, especially in fast-paced scenarios. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your individual typing style and the atmosphere in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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