KTT Strawberry vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Strawberry and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Strawberry and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer two distinct yet appealing options, both categorized as linear switches. The KTT Strawberry is celebrated for its silky smooth actuation and comfortable feel, encased in attractive pink and clear housings that enhance both aesthetics and performance. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a frictionless typing experience that allows for prolonged use without fatigue. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) boasts a super smooth typing experience thanks to its Ly stems, combined with a resonant sound profile that adds a unique auditory dimension to your keystrokes. This switch may cater more to those who prefer a heavier touch while typing, offering a satisfying tactile feedback that some users find particularly enjoyable. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The KTT Strawberry and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share some similarities in their top housing materials, both of which utilize polycarbonate. This commonality results in a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the inherent stiffness of polycarbonate. This characteristic not only contributes to the overall clarity and resonance of the keystrokes but also enhances the aesthetic appeal for users who have an affinity for RGB lighting. Both switches, therefore, promise a similar auditory experience when the keys are released, emphasizing a bright and articulate sound that is pleasing to the ear.
However, when examining the bottom housing materials, we see a significant contrast between the two switches. The KTT Strawberry features a polycarbonate bottom housing that, much like its top, maintains the characteristic sound profile of a crisper and sharper keystroke. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) opts for a nylon bottom housing, which significantly alters the sound experience. Nylon is known for its softer properties, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile that tends to absorb more sound energy. This difference means that while the top sounds are likely to be comparable due to the shared polycarbonate, the bottom-out feel and sound will diverge dramatically, with the Tomcat providing a rounder, more muted experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Strawberry and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer complementary experiences driven by their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housings ensure both switches produce a high-pitched and clear sound when keys are released. However, the duality in bottom housing materials introduces a distinct contrast in auditory feedback upon bottoming out. Users who prefer a sharper sound profile may lean towards the Strawberry, while those seeking a fuller sound may favor the Tomcat. This blend of materials ultimately leads to a diverse user experience, appealing to a variety of preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Strawberry switch features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 64 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This variation means that the Strawberry switch is lighter, which may be more suitable for users looking for a less strenuous typing experience over extended periods, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the heavier Tomcat switch appeals to those who prefer a more substantial feel, providing that extra push which can enhance the typing experience for some users. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces cater to different preferences, making it essential for individuals to choose based on their typing style and comfort needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges: the Strawberry boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Strawberry the longer option, offering a traditional feel that some users might appreciate for its depth. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Tomcat (Heavy) is designed for heightened responsiveness, appealing particularly to gamers who prioritize quick key actuation. While both switches serve their unique purposes, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference; those seeking a more substantial keypress may favor the KTT Strawberry, while users who prefer a more immediate response might lean towards the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy).
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91, whereas the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99.
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 it comes to sound, the KTT Strawberry switches offer a low-pitched profile, which produces a warm and mellow tone that is often appreciated by users who prefer a more subdued auditory experience while typing. This bass-heavy characteristic contributes to an overall pleasant sound that can enhance the typing experience without being intrusive. The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches, on the other hand, are noted for their resonant sound profile, though specific descriptors are not provided. This suggests a potentially unique auditory experience that may vary significantly from the Strawberry, depending on the keyboard and keycap combination used. As sound is influenced by multiple factors, both switches can achieve pleasing acoustic results, but the nature of the sound produced will differ.
In terms of feel, the KTT Strawberry switches excel with an impressive array of descriptors including frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These characteristics imply a typing experience free of resistance, providing a seamless, smooth, and enjoyable keystroke that feels effortless. Users can expect fluid travel and a refined sensation with each press, making them ideal for long typing sessions. In contrast, there is no information available regarding the tactile feel of the Tomcat (Heavy) switches. This absence leaves a gap in understanding how they might compare directly to the Strawberry in terms of user experience.
In summary, the KTT Strawberry linear switches stand out for their low-pitched sound and an exceptional, smooth feel characterized by their frictionless and polished nature. While the Tomcat (Heavy) switches might offer a resonant sound profile, detailed tactile descriptions are missing, making direct comparisons challenging. Users looking for a lush auditory experience paired with a smooth feel will find the Strawberry a compelling choice. Without more information on the Tomcat's feel, it's difficult to qualify how they would match up, but each switch will deliver unique results depending on personal preferences and keyboard configurations.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the KTT Strawberry and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches should hinge on what type of experience you seek while typing or gaming. If you prefer a smooth, polished feel with a delightful low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Strawberry is an excellent choice—with its 62-gram force delivering a comfortable typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or casual gaming. The frictionless and silky characteristics of the Strawberry will enhance your comfort, allowing you to focus on your tasks without the distraction of resistance or harsh feedback from the keys. On the other hand, if you desire a slightly heavier feel with a robust and resonant keystroke, the Tomcat (Heavy) with its 64-gram force might be more suitable. This switch is particularly advantageous for users who appreciate a bit more tactile weight in their typing, possibly offering better feedback during fast-paced gaming or typing. Both switches have unique qualities, and your choice ultimately comes down to personal preference in feel, sound, and actuation characteristics.