Durock T1 vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock T1 and the Bsun Tomcat offer distinctly different experiences suited to various typing preferences. The Durock T1, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its comfortable typing feel, providing a medium bump that offers satisfying feedback with each keystroke. This auditory and tactile sensation evokes the calming sound of rain falling on a window, making it a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a more engaging and noticeable typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat, a linear switch, is designed for seamless, fluid key presses; its Ly stems deliver an exceptionally smooth typing experience accompanied by a resonant sound profile. If you lean towards a switch that enhances tactile feedback with a pleasing sound, the T1 may be your best bet, while the Tomcat could be the perfect option for those who prioritize smoothness and quiet operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique typing style.

By the numbers

Durock T1 Tactile

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$5.50

$4.90 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Durock T1 and the Bsun Tomcat feature polycarbonate in their top housings, which significantly influences the auditory characteristics of each switch. This use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. As a stiffer plastic, polycarbonate enhances sound clarity, resonating well to create a vibrant auditory experience that many users appreciate. Moreover, the translucent nature of polycarbonate not only contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches but also allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, making both models attractive choices for users interested in illuminated keyboard setups.

In terms of bottom housings, the Durock T1 and Bsun Tomcat utilize nylon, a material renowned for its sound-absorbing qualities. The inherent softness of nylon leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile, contrasting with the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top. This combination of differing materials results in a unique dynamic; while the bottom housing primarily affects the key's bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, both the T1 and Tomcat offer a rich, multifaceted auditory experience, as users can enjoy complementary yet distinct sound qualities attributed to both the softer nylon and the rigid polycarbonate.

Ultimately, since both the Durock T1 and Bsun Tomcat feature the same housing materials—polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom—they will yield similar results in terms of sound and performance. The interplay between the sharper sounds produced by the polycarbonate top and the rounder tones emanating from the nylon bottom will result in a harmonious auditory experience. The balance between these materials allows for clear, resonant keypress sounds while also providing a pleasant and rich auditory landscape that keyboard enthusiasts often seek. Thus, users can expect comparable outcomes in sound and tactile feel regardless of the specific model they choose.

Weight

When comparing the Durock T1 tactile switch to the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The T1 lacks specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is categorized as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Tomcat switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This means that for typists or gamers seeking a lighter touch, the Tomcat would be more suitable due to its lower actuation force and overall lighter feel, allowing for extended typing sessions with less fatigue. Meanwhile, the T1, with its heavier bottom out force, caters to those who prefer a more substantial push feel, offering a more tactile experience. Therefore, while the Tomcat is the lighter option, the T1 provides a heftier typing experience, making the choice dependent on individual preference for weight and tactile feedback.

Travel distance

The Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Bsun Tomcat linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the T1 offers a more pronounced keystroke, providing a deeper feedback that some users might prefer, especially those who favor a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Tomcat’s shorter travel distance can cater to gamers or users who prioritize quick response times, as it allows for faster key actuation. Therefore, if you desire a heartier depth in your keystrokes, the Durock T1 would be the better choice, while the Bsun Tomcat is suited for those who appreciate a more responsive feel with its shorter travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone that is reminiscent of rain softly tapping against a window. This mellow tone is generally comfortable and non-intrusive, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a more professional setting. The sound profile is designed to please without drawing undue attention, creating an ambiance where typing blends harmoniously into the background. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is characterized by a resonant sound profile, though specifics regarding pitch and tonal quality are not detailed. While the T1’s auditory features are defined, the information about the Tomcat’s sound remains less clear, leaving a gap in direct comparison.

In terms of tactile feel, the T1 is celebrated for its stepped nature, which provides a medium bump that strikes a balance between pronounced tactility and smoothness. The design allows users to experience distinct stages during a keystroke, ensuring a satisfying typing experience that avoids the extremes often found in hypertactile switches. The T1 is described as accented and polished, emphasizing a smooth and refined finish that lends to ease of key travel while maintaining a moderate level of tactility. Contrarily, the feel of the Tomcat is unaddressed in detail, so any comparisons in terms of tactile characteristics cannot be made.

In conclusion, the Durock T1 tactile switch shines in its comprehensive auditory and tactile attributes, providing a comforting typing experience while delivering a pleasant sound. The Tomcat linear switch presents an intriguing alternative with its resonant sound, although its specific tactile qualities remain undefined, which prevents a thorough comparison. Overall, both switches promise exciting typing experiences, and individuals choosing between them might find preferences emerging based on sound and tactile feedback, especially if they favor the distinct feel of a tactile switch like the T1 or lean toward a smooth linear character.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience—particularly if you enjoy the comforting, rhythmic sound reminiscent of raindrops—the T1 is a fantastic option. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams paired with a well-defined tactile bump makes it great for typing, as it can help reduce typing errors while still providing a satisfying sensation as you press down on the keys. This switch is also suitable for a variety of environments, such as an office or a home setting, thanks to its low-pitched sound profile that keeps noise to a minimum. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience, the Bsun Tomcat with its medium-light bottom-out force of 54 grams is an excellent choice. Its linear design provides an incredibly smooth keystroke without any bumps, which can be ideal for gaming or rapid typing where every millisecond counts. The resonant sound profile of the Tomcat can also appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback without the tactile interruptions. Therefore, consider your own typing style, the environments in which you intend to use your keyboard, and whether you prioritize tactile feedback or smoothness to make the right decision for your keyboard build.

Mentioned in this article

Durock T1 Tactile

$5.50

$4.90 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more