Gateron Smoothie vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Smoothie and the Bsun Tomcat both offer exceptional linear performance, yet they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Gateron Smoothie, crafted entirely from POM, is celebrated for its thocky sound signature and buttery smoothness, making it an attractive option for those who appreciate a quieter, yet satisfying keystroke. Its lightweight touch also contributes to a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long hours of use. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat takes a different approach, featuring Ly stems that deliver a remarkably smooth typing experience paired with a resonant sound profile. This switch is perfect for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keypress. Thus, while both switches excel in smoothness and linear travel, they appeal to distinct user preferences regarding sound and tactile feel. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie and the Bsun Tomcat, the differences in their construction significantly affect the overall sound profile and tactile experience of the switches. The Smoothie's POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing is known for contributing a deeper, more muted sound characteristic. This quality is largely attributed to POM’s construction, which allows for a pleasant sound absorption that emphasizes a unique auditory experience. In contrast, the Tomcat utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing. This material typically produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound due to its increased stiffness, resulting in a crisper auditory profile. Therefore, while both switches can be effective for different user preferences, the Smoothie will yield a softer sound, while the Tomcat will create a more vibrant and resonant audio experience.
Examining the bottom housings reveals further differences that contribute to the overall functionality of the switches. The Smoothie's POM bottom housing, similar to its top counterpart, emphasizes the muted quality, yielding a deeper and more subdued sound when the switch is activated. Conversely, the Tomcat's nylon bottom housing delivers a fuller sound profile thanks to nylon’s inherent qualities that allow for greater sound absorption. This results in a rounder bottom-out experience, contrasting with the smoother POM, which retains a more muted sound. As a result, the interaction between the top and bottom housings generates differing auditory feedback, where the Smoothie's setup leans towards a cohesive, deep sound while the Tomcat provides a more dynamic audio variation.
Ultimately, although the Gateron Smoothie and Bsun Tomcat switches differ significantly in the materials used for their top and bottom housings, both designs can achieve satisfying sound profiles tailored to user preferences. Those seeking a more subdued and deeper sound may gravitate towards the Smoothie's POM housings, while users who appreciate a sharper, crisper auditory response may prefer the Tomcat's polycarbonate construction. Regardless of the differences, understanding that each switch's characteristics are shaped both by the top and bottom housing can help users make informed choices about their keyboard configurations. Each switch promotes a unique sound experience in its own right, and users may even experiment with combinations to customize the auditory feedback further.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force of the Smoothie remains unknown. The Smoothie has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer typing for extended periods without fatigue, ideal for work or prolonged gaming sessions. In contrast, the Tomcat features a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a defined bottom out force of 54 grams, which offers a more substantial feel for users who enjoy a stronger push during keystrokes. Consequently, the increased actuation and bottom out forces of the Tomcat cater to those who prefer a firmer typing experience, while the Smoothie's lighter force is positioned for comfort over long durations. Since the Smoothie’s bottom out force is unknown, we cannot draw direct comparisons there, but the differences in actuation force clearly delineate the two switches' target user experiences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that when you press down on the keys of either switch, you will experience an equal distance of movement from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance results in comparable tactile feedback and keypress experience, making both switches suitable for users who prefer a consistent linear feel. Since both switches have an identical travel distance, you can expect similar performance in terms of key actuation and response during typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 characteristics of the Gateron Smoothie switch are notable for their thocky and low-pitched signature, delivering a deep and rich auditory experience when pressed. This switch generates a satisfying "thud" or soft "knock," creating a pleasant soundscape that is both impactful and subdued, making it less intrusive than higher-pitched alternatives. Although the Bsun Tomcat's sound profile is noted to be resonant, specific descriptors like thockiness or pitch have not been provided. Nevertheless, it's essential to recognize that the overall sound of any switch will also depend on additional components such as the keyboard board and keycaps paired with it.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Gateron Smoothie excels with its buttery, creamy, and silky attributes, contributing to an incredibly smooth typing experience. Users will notice an effortless glide as their fingers transition between keystrokes, with minimal resistance enhancing the typing flow. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switches also feature Ly stems, which are designed for smoothness, but further detail regarding their specific feel has not been disclosed. Therefore, while the Smoothie provides a clearly defined tactile experience, the tomcats could potentially deliver a similar smoothness, though their exact qualities remain unconfirmed.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Smoothie switch stands out with its thocky sound and buttery-smooth feel, the Bsun Tomcat switch shows promise, particularly in offering a smooth experience due to its Ly stems. However, the lack of specific qualities for the Tomcat leaves some uncertainty. If you're seeking switches that provide satisfying audio and smooth actuation, either option may serve well, but the Gateron Smoothie currently provides a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Smoothie and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as well as the typing experience you seek. If you prioritize a thocky, low-pitched sound that provides a deeper acoustic character, the Gateron Smoothie is an excellent choice. Its buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel ensures a seamless experience that is perfect for long typing sessions or general use. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a more resonant sound profile and a medium-light bottom-out force, the Bsun Tomcat switch might suit you better. Its Ly stem enhances the smoothness of your keystrokes, making it a great option for both typing and gaming. Therefore, consider the sound signature, keystroke feel, and intended use when deciding between these two excellent switches to ensure you find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard.
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