Bsun Taichi vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of different options—a task that becomes particularly intriguing when comparing the Bsun Taichi and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), both linear switches. The Taichi is celebrated for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to its long-pole stem, extended springs, and walled stems that provide unparalleled smoothness and stability during typing. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a unique auditory experience alongside a tactile feel. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) boasts Ly stems, which offer a super smooth typing experience and a distinctive resonant sound profile, making it appealing to users who prefer a solid, weighty feel with a satisfying auditory feedback. While both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, understanding the nuances of their performance is essential for narrowing down your options. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Taichi Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Bsun Taichi and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, establishing a strong foundation for their sound profiles. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffer characteristics, which facilitate a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material is particularly advantageous for creating an effective RGB lighting experience due to its translucency. Thus, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetically pleasing lighting effects from both switches, making them suitable for gamers or typists looking for clarity and brightness in sound and visual displays.

In terms of their bottom housing, both the Taichi and the Tomcat (Heavy) incorporate nylon, a classic material recognized for its softer properties. Nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing much of the sound produced during key presses and resulting in a duller yet rounded auditory experience. This material choice affirms that both switches deliver a consistent, pleasant typing experience characterized by a muted sound when keys bottom out. Consequently, the overall sound profile of each switch is augmented while maintaining a balance with the benefits provided by other housing materials.

When comparing the two switches holistically, it is clear that their construction leads to an interplay between sound profiles. Although the top housings produce a crisper sound, thanks to the polycarbonate, the nylon bottom housings counterbalance this with a softer, resonant tone. Therefore, regardless of the switch used, users will enjoy a harmonized typing experience that combines the advantages of both materials. While the compositions may lend themselves to a contrasting dynamic in sound, the overarching takeaway is that the synergy of the polycarbonate and nylon results in an enriched auditory experience that is consistent across both models.

Weight

The Bsun Taichi linear switch features an actuation force of 40 grams but lacks a specified bottom out force, making it difficult to assess its overall performance in terms of key travel completion. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, accompanied by a bottom out force of 64 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. This difference in actuation force indicates that the Taichi is the lighter option, potentially providing a softer typing experience that may suit users who prefer extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a more pronounced resistance, appealing to those who favor a robust typing experience. Ultimately, if one is looking for a lighter keypress for casual use or longer durations, the Taichi is ideal, whereas the Tomcat is better suited for individuals who prefer a firmer touch. Since the Taichi's bottom out force is unknown, comparisons to that characteristic with the Tomcat cannot be fully drawn.

Travel distance

Both the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same distance of movement from the top to the bottom. Thus, for those seeking a consistent tactile feedback and actuation depth, both switches will yield similar results. Since their travel distances are equal, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, making them comparable in this aspect.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bsun Taichi linear switch produces an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which creates a unique auditory experience during typing. Its design incorporates a long-pole stem and walled stems, enhancing the acoustic properties and providing a delightful resonance that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch offers a distinct resonant sound profile, attributed to its Ly stems. While both switches produce pleasing sounds, the characters of these auditory experiences differ, with the Taichi providing a higher pitch and the Tomcat leaning towards a deeper resonance.

When considering feel, the Taichi switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and stability, thanks to its extended springs and thoughtful engineering. This results in a highly enjoyable typing experience that many users find engaging. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is also engineered for smoothness, promoting a super smooth typing experience that complements its resonant sound profile. Both switches aim for a seamless feel, but the Taichi's design focuses more on stability and lightness while the Tomcat emphasizes a heavier and potentially more substantial experience.

In conclusion, while the Bsun Taichi and Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches both excel in their own right, they offer varying auditory and tactile experiences. The Taichi emphasizes a high-pitched sound and unmatched smoothness, while the Tomcat provides a resonant sound with a heavy touch. Regardless of which switch you choose, both promise a satisfying typing experience, making them great options for newcomers looking to explore mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, your choice largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re looking for a switch that emphasizes a smooth, high-pitched sound profile and a fluid typing experience, the Taichi is an excellent choice. Its unique design, featuring a long-pole stem and extended springs, offers unparalleled smoothness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a quieter and more understated typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force that provides tactile feedback while typing, the Tomcat (Heavy) is the way to go. This switch's Ly stems contribute to a resonant sound profile and a satisfying thock that many users find appealing. Ultimately, choose the Taichi if you prioritize sound and smoothness with a lighter touch, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) should be your pick if you appreciate a more pronounced keystroke and a heavier feel.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Taichi Linear

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more