Huano Strawberry Latte vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Bsun Tomcat both present compelling options for those seeking a linear experience. The Strawberry Latte is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth feel, utilizing the latest molds from Huano to create a balanced sound profile that strikes a pleasing middle ground—not too quiet nor overly resonant. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat features Ly stems that also provide a super smooth typing experience but with a more resonant sound profile, giving it a different acoustic character that some users may prefer. Both switches cater to typing enthusiasts who appreciate a smooth linear feel, yet they do so with distinct sound dynamics and tactile subtleties. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Bsun Tomcat, distinct differences and similarities emerge that impact their overall sound and performance. The top housing of the Strawberry Latte is constructed from polyketone (POK), which is known for its exceptional smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction slightly higher than that of nylon, POK contributes to a clacky feel while being incredibly strong and wear-resistant. In contrast, the Tomcat utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, valued for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This difference leads to varied auditory experiences when typing, as the POK material of the Strawberry Latte promotes a softer and smoother sound, while the polycarbonate in the Tomcat generates a more resonant and clear pitch.

Both switches feature nylon as the material for their bottom housing, leading to a similar auditory experience when typing. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that gives a softer touch. This similarity means that, despite differing materials in the top housings, both switches will retain a consistent depth in sound due to the nylon presence in their bottom housings. This shared material allows the Strawberry Latte and the Tomcat to offer enjoyable typing experiences, though the characters attributed to their top housings cause a notable divergence in how they feel and sound when keys are pressed and released.

Ultimately, the interaction of the top and bottom housing materials determines the overall typing experience for each switch. In the case of the Strawberry Latte, the smooth, clacky feel from the POK top housing blends with the deep sound from the nylon bottom to provide a distinct auditory experience when typing. Conversely, the Tomcat combines the crisp sound produced by its polycarbonate top housing with the richer sound from its nylon bottom. This division of sound characteristics allows both the Strawberry Latte and the Tomcat to cater to different preferences, highlighting how the choice of materials in their respective top and bottom housings influences both sound and feel, while still presenting similar auditory foundations through the use of nylon in the bottom.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch to the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, significant differences can be observed in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Strawberry Latte features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions and gaming due to its ease of key presses. Conversely, the Tomcat switch has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, which provides a slightly firmer feel that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. As such, the Strawberry Latte switch is the lighter option overall, while the Tomcat is heavier, catering to different user preferences. If you're looking for a switch that allows for quick, less strenuous key presses, the Strawberry Latte is the better choice, whereas the Tomcat appeals to those who appreciate a bit more resistance in their typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of both the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is the same at 3.6 mm, meaning users can expect a consistent keypress experience when using either switch. This equal travel distance suggests that both switches will deliver similar tactile feedback and responsiveness during typing or gaming, making them suitable alternatives for users who prioritize key travel distance. Ultimately, with both switches offering the same distance, individuals can select either option based on other factors such as sound profile, actuation force, or personal preference without worrying about differences in travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Strawberry Latte switch presents a balanced profile, falling into a range that is neither too quiet nor overly resonant, making it a versatile option for various typing environments. This quality allows it to be suitable for both workspaces and home setups without being disruptive. Contrastingly, the Bsun Tomcat switch is noted for its resonant sound profile, which may deliver a more pronounced auditory feedback during key presses. While the resonance can provide a satisfying feedback for some users, it's important to note that the overall sound experience will also depend on individual board construction and keycap choices.

When considering the feel of these switches, the Strawberry Latte is celebrated for its ultra-smooth typing experience, attributed to the latest manufacturing techniques from Huano. This smoothness provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Tomcat switch, featuring Ly stems, also offers a super smooth typing experience, indicating that both switches excel in delivering fluid keystrokes. Users can expect enjoyable tactile experiences with either option, making them appealing choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

In summary, both the Huano Strawberry Latte and Bsun Tomcat linear switches provide smooth typing experiences, though they differ in their sound profiles, with the former being balanced and the latter resonant. If sound characteristics are a significant factor, Strawberry Latte may be more suitable for quieter settings, while Tomcat may appeal to those who prefer more pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer compelling qualities that cater to different personal preferences, ensuring users are likely to find satisfaction with either choice.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and the kind of experience you're aiming for. If you’re someone who appreciates a lighter switch with a super smooth feel and a balanced sound profile—not too loud but definitely not silent—the Strawberry Latte is likely your best bet. It's especially suited for long typing sessions where comfort and quick actuation are key. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a resonant sound profile that still delivers smooth key presses, the Tomcat might be the right choice for you, particularly if you enjoy a more tactile auditory feedback as you type. The medium-light bottom out force of the Tomcat can also make it suitable for those who want a bit more resistance without straining their fingers. In conclusion, your decision should align with your typing style: go for the Strawberry Latte for lightness and smoothness, or choose the Tomcat for a slightly heavier feel and distinct sound dynamics.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more