Durock T1 vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock T1 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The T1 is a tactile switch renowned for its comfortable typing experience, featuring a medium bump that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke; its sound profile evokes the gentle rhythm of rain falling against a window, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more acoustic typing environment. Its qualities—characterized by being stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, and polished—enhance the tactile sensation, making it particularly suitable for typists who appreciate a clear indication of actuation without sacrificing smoothness. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), a linear switch, is celebrated for its ultra-smooth typing experience, attributed to its Ly stems that glide effortlessly without a tactile bump. This switch features a resonant sound profile, which can be appealing for users who prefer a quieter, more fluid operation when gaming or typing. Both switches have their knack for orchestrating a unique typing rhythm, but they cater to different needs: the T1 for tactile feedback enthusiasts and the Tomcat for those who favor smooth strokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials utilized in both the Durock T1 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) exhibit remarkable similarities, particularly in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches leverage the properties of this material to achieve a sharper, high-pitched sound profile, characterized by clear and resonant audio feedback. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to this defined sound quality, making it an ideal choice for users seeking an enhanced auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate enables RGB lighting to shine through effectively, providing an aesthetically appealing display, consistent across both switches. This shared choice in top housing material suggests that users can anticipate similar performance in terms of auditory sharpness and visual effects when using either switch.
Contrastingly, the bottom housings of the Durock T1 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) are constructed from nylon, a material known for its capacity to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is distinct from the sharper quality provided by the polycarbonate tops. The softness of nylon influences the overall typing experience, contributing to a rounder and more muted auditory feedback during key presses. Both switches benefiting from the nylon construction thus provide a dual experience: the sharpness of the top housing harmonizing with the subdued characteristics of the bottom housing, which creates a balanced auditory profile.
In essence, while both switches employ the same materials for their respective housings, the interplay between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom defines their unique characteristics. The T1 and Tomcat (Heavy) switches execute a well-coordinated sound performance that combines a crisp top-end resolution with a warm, rounded body. Users can expect similar results in terms of sound profiles due to the identical materials in use; however, the nuanced experience of bottoming out versus releasing the key will still differ slightly based on the housing dynamics. By understanding how each material contributes to the overall acoustic signature, users can make informed decisions about which switch aligns best with their auditory preference and typing style.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The Durock T1 has an actuation force that is unspecified, which makes it difficult to draw a direct comparison in that regard. However, its bottom out force of 67 grams indicates a medium-heavy resistance when fully pressed down. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) features a defined actuation force of 55 grams, making it the lighter option, while its bottom out force is slightly lower at 64 grams, also within the medium-heavy category. As such, users looking for a lighter typing experience for prolonged use might find the Tomcat (Heavy) more appealing. Conversely, those who enjoy a stronger feedback in their keystrokes may lean toward the Durock T1, given its heavier bottom out force, despite the unknown actuation force. Overall, while both switches provide a significant tactile sensation, the distinction in their forces allows users to choose based on their specific preferences for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The Durock T1 tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the T1 provides a more substantial keypress, which some users may find preferable for a fuller typing experience or gaming where deeper feedback can be beneficial. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) with its 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those seeking quicker response times, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming scenarios. While both switches serve unique preferences, the T1's longer travel distance is indicative of a more pronounced actuation feel, whereas the Tomcat offers a more responsive, albeit shallower, keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches might depend on whether the user prioritizes depth or speed in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 it comes to sound, the Durock T1 tactile switch is characterized by a low-pitched tone that offers a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience, reminiscent of rain tapping on a window. This neutral sound profile makes it versatile, suitable for a range of environments, whether you’re typing at home or in an office setting. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is noted to be resonant, although specific details about its pitch or tonal quality are not provided. It’s important to remember that sound can be influenced by the keyboard model and keycap material, which means both switches can deliver an enjoyable acoustic experience depending on their environment.
In terms of feel, the T1 tactile switch provides what can be described as a stepped and accented experience. Users can expect a medium bump when pressing down, giving feedback without being overly aggressive, thanks to its polished characteristics which reduce friction for a smooth typing experience. This makes the T1 a comfortable choice for long typing sessions, offering a refined tactile sensation. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch's feel is not explicitly detailed, leaving some uncertainty about its tactile characteristics. However, the emphasis on its smooth operation suggests that it aims to deliver a consistently pleasant experience as well.
In summary, while the Durock T1 tactile switch is celebrated for its comfortable feel and melodic, low-pitched sound, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch offers a resonant sound that could contribute to a satisfying auditory experience. The tactile qualities of the T1 make it a standout choice for users seeking an engaging typing experience, while details regarding the Tomcat’s tactile feedback remain unknown. Individual preferences will undoubtedly play a significant role in the decision between these two, but both have the potential to provide gratifying results tailored to different typing styles and environments.
Conclusion
In closing, the choice between the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you're someone who enjoys a tactile feedback with a comfortable typing experience, the T1 is an excellent choice. Its medium bump provides just the right level of feedback without being too overwhelming, making it ideal for both typing and gaming. The low-pitched sound is especially suitable for quieter environments, as it won't disrupt those around you, while still delivering a pleasant auditory experience akin to rain falling. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, the Tomcat (Heavy) would be more aligned with your needs. Its slightly lighter actuation force and resonant sound offer a velvety feel perfect for long writing sessions or high-speed gaming without the distraction of a tactile bump. Ultimately, your preference for tactile versus linear feedback, alongside considerations such as sound profile and typing feel, will determine which switch is the best fit for you.
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