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Bsun Taichi vs. Bsun Tomcat

An in-depth look at the Bsun Taichi and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Taichi and Bsun Tomcat present two enticing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Taichi is celebrated for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to its long-pole stem, extended springs, and walled construction, which together create a uniquely polished and clacky sensation. This switch may appeal to users who appreciate auditory feedback during their typing sessions and desire an exceptionally smooth and stable feel. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat focuses on delivering an extraordinarily smooth typing experience, characterized by its Ly stems, which contribute to a harmonious and resonant sound profile. While both switches cater to the linear switch category, the Taichi leans towards an audible performance that some might find more engaging, while the Tomcat prioritizes a polished and quiet keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

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

Partial box

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

21mm single-staged spring

Spring

Extended spring

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Taichi and Bsun Tomcat, it is noteworthy that both models utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material enhances the sound profile of the switches, making it sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper due to polycarbonate's rigidity. The translucency of polycarbonate further allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, providing an aesthetic appeal that many users seek in gaming and typing environments. Since both switches share this polycarbonate top housing, users can expect similar sonic characteristics that contribute to clear and resonant sound effects during use.

Regarding the bottom housing, both the Bsun Taichi and Bsun Tomcat incorporate nylon, which is recognized for its sound-dampening qualities. This softer plastic absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches promotes a more rounded sound profile as users press down on the keys. Consequently, this shared characteristic means that both models will likely provide a consistent tactile feedback and bottom-out sound, making them appealing choices for those who prefer a deeper typing experience.

Ultimately, while the top housing of both the Taichi and Tomcat excels in producing a bright and illuminated sound due to polycarbonate, the bottom housing's nylon material ensures a warm, rounded auditory response. By blending the properties of both housings, the switches deliver a harmonious combination of acoustics. For users, this means that even though the housing materials are identical for both models, there is a dual impact on the overall typing experience based on the interaction between the top and bottom housings. This synergy allows for a nuanced approach to sound quality, offering both clarity and depth in the final experience.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Taichi and Bsun Tomcat linear switches, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Taichi features an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Tomcat requires a slightly heavier 45 grams to actuate. This means that the Taichi switch is lighter, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch, potentially allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Tomcat's heavier actuation force may provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger feedback when pressing keys. Additionally, the Tomcat has a known bottom out force of 54 grams, suggesting that it requires more force to fully depress, whereas the bottom out force for the Taichi remains unknown. As a result, users looking for a lighter switch with potentially less fatigue during long sessions may lean towards the Taichi, while those seeking a firmer feel would likely favor the Tomcat.

Travel distance

The Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience a similar key press depth when using either switch. Since both switches travel the same distance from the top to the bottom, this results in a consistent tactile feedback and actuation feel, providing a comparable typing experience. Users can expect similar performance regarding the distance they need to push down on a key, allowing for versatility in different typing scenarios.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.

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

When it comes to sound, the Bsun Taichi linear switch stands out with its high-pitched bottom-out sound, which is described as clacky, producing a crisp and percussive auditory experience when typing. This quality is enhanced by its long-pole stem and extended springs, creating a distinctly sharp sound profile that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is noted for its resonant sound profile, but specific descriptors for its acoustic characteristics have not been provided. Although the Tomcat’s auditory experience may not be as explicitly defined, it's important to recognize that both switches' sound profiles can be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycap materials.

In terms of feel, the Taichi linear switch is recognized for its polished quality, offering a smooth and refined typing experience due to its expertly crafted materials and likely factory lubrication. This design results in minimal friction during key travel, making for a sleek and enjoyable typing sensation. The Bsun Tomcat linear switch, however, lacks specific descriptors regarding its tactile feel. While the precise details may be absent, it can be assumed that the Tomcat also aims to provide a smooth typing experience, particularly given its focus on delivering super smooth performance.

In summary, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is characterized by its clacky sound and polished feel, providing an engaging auditory and tactile experience. The Bsun Tomcat linear switch, while less clearly defined in sound and feel, also seems to focus on delivering smoothness in typing. Ultimately, both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for linear switches, and while their auditory and tactile qualities may vary, they both promise a satisfying typing experience overall. If you prioritize smooth performance, you can expect to find enjoyment in either option.

Conclusion

To summarize, choosing between the Bsun Taichi and Bsun Tomcat linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a sharp, clacky sound and a polished feel that enhances your typing experience, the Taichi switch is the way to go. Its unique design, characterized by a long-pole stem and extended springs, offers unparalleled smoothness and stability, ideal for those who appreciate a tactile auditory feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more balanced experience with a medium-light actuation force of 54 grams, the Tomcat switch is an excellent choice. It provides a super smooth typing experience thanks to its Ly stem, and while it may not feature the same resonant sound profile as the Taichi, it offers a more subdued yet satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, consider how sound, feel, and the bottom-out force align with your typing needs when making your decision between these two noteworthy switches.

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