Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer distinct characteristics tailored for different user preferences, particularly for gamers and typists alike. The Akko V3 Silver Pro stands out with its light actuation force and shortened travel distance, designed to enhance performance during fast-paced gaming sessions. With a smooth, creamy feel and a bassy sound, it ensures that each keystroke is both satisfying and efficient—a perfect combination for those who need responsive and rapid inputs. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) provides a robust typing experience with its Ly stems, promoting a super smooth feel throughout. Despite its heavier resistance, it offers a resonant sound profile that many typists find appealing for everyday use. Both switches, while linear, cater to unique preferences: the V3 Silver Pro for gamers who prioritize speed and tactile feedback, and the Tomcat for users who enjoy a fuller, more resonant sound with each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which means they share similar acoustic properties. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of the material adds an additional aesthetic advantage, especially when RGB lighting is employed, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. Since both switches are equipped with polycarbonate top housings, users can expect a consistent experience in terms of transparency and sound quality, enhancing their overall typing experience.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile during typing. Nylon is recognized for its softer nature compared to polycarbonate, allowing it to absorb more sound, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Although both switches employ nylon in their bottom housings, they will influence the overall acoustic and tactile feedback differently when pressed. The blend of materials allows the V3 Silver Pro and the Tomcat (Heavy) to capitalize on the strengths of both polycarbonate and nylon, leading to a balanced sound experience that engages different auditory characteristics.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the V3 Silver Pro and Tomcat (Heavy) yields a unique interplay of sound profiles. While the top housings contribute to the sharpness in sound upon key release, the softer nylon bottoms round out the overall typing experience with deeper, fuller notes. As a result, while the two switches may exhibit differences in aesthetic design and feel, their material choices allow them to produce similar auditory results, making both a viable option for keyboard enthusiasts seeking high-quality switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch to the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The V3 Silver Pro features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, catering to users who favor a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Consequently, the V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) is the heavier choice. Users can expect a distinct feel when typing or gaming, as the differences in force translate to varying levels of resistance and feedback during use. For those who appreciate a lower actuation force, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is the better fit, while individuals seeking a firmer response should opt for the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The V3 Silver Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Tomcat (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is longer. This variance in travel distance impacts the typing experience significantly. If you prefer a more responsive and quicker feedback when typing, the Akko V3 Silver Pro with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. Conversely, those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress with a heartier depth might find the Tomcat (Heavy) to be more suited to their liking due to its longer travel distance. Thus, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on the user's personal preference for responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches, there's a clear distinction. The V3 Silver Pro is characterized by a high-pitched sound, producing sharp, crisp auditory feedback that gamers often appreciate for its clarity during gameplay. In contrast, while the Tomcat (Heavy) features a resonant sound profile, the specifics of its sound characteristics are not clearly defined; therefore, it is difficult to directly compare the auditory experiences of both switches. This means that the overall sound experience may vary significantly depending on the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and other factors.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches excel with multiple descriptors that highlight their user-friendliness. They are easy to press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, making them highly suitable for both gaming and long typing sessions. The light actuation force and smooth key travel contribute to reduced finger fatigue, providing a pleasant and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches do not have detailed descriptors available, preventing a comprehensive assessment of their feel. However, the naming convention suggests they might offer a heavier typing experience, potentially making them less comfortable for extended use compared to the V3 Silver Pro.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches provide a well-rounded experience, particularly for gamers, with their bright sound profile and a more comfortable and responsive feel due to their design features. Meanwhile, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) holds certain unknown qualities regarding sound and feel, but it may cater to users who prefer a heavier switch profile. Ultimately, those looking for a highly-rated gaming switch with significant ergonomic benefits might lean towards the Akko V3 Silver Pro, while the Tomcat (Heavy) could appeal to individuals seeking a different tactile experience, although specifics are unclear.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you're a gamer who thrives on quick reflexes and rapid keystrokes, the V3 Silver Pro is likely your best bet. With its light actuation force of 45 grams, effortless feel, and shortened travel distance, it enables you to execute commands swiftly and efficiently. This switch's high-pitched sound also adds a crisp auditory feedback, which can enhance your gaming experience. On the other hand, if you favor a more robust tactile sensation during both gaming and typing, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch, with its 64 grams of bottom-out force, provides a strong, reassuring resistance. While it may not be as quick as the V3 Silver Pro, the smooth glide and resonant sound profile of the Tomcat (Heavy) enhance the tactile experience, making it well-suited for extended typing tasks where you desire a bit more weight and feedback. Ultimately, your decision will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or prefer a heavier, more substantial feel when typing.
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