Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can vary widely depending on individual typing styles and sensory experiences. The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is celebrated for its smooth linear action, characterized by Ly stems that facilitate a seamless typing experience, complemented by a resonant sound profile that many users find satisfying. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize uninterrupted keystrokes and a quieter environment, making it a great choice for work or gaming scenarios where focus is paramount. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor presents a strikingly different experience with its pronounced tactile feedback and thuddy, punchy sound profile that adds personality to each keystroke. Its balanced tactility ensures users feel each press without feeling overwhelmed, making it perfect for those who enjoy the sensation of typing but prefer not to drift into overly tactile territory. Each switch offers unique advantages, catering to varying preferences and typing styles. 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 Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$2.99 per 10

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor exhibit significant similarities that result in comparable acoustic characteristics. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which lends a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile that enhances the clarity and resonance of keystrokes. Polycarbonate is recognized for its stiffness, which contributes to a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enables effective RGB lighting effects, making both switches visually appealing for users looking to customize their keyboard displays.

In contrast, the bottom housing of the two switches utilizes nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound. Unlike the polycarbonate top that emphasizes higher frequencies, the nylon bottom absorbs sound to produce a duller, rounder tone. This characteristic is crucial for the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing profoundly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed. Both switches, by employing nylon in their bottom housings, offer users this rich, robust sound profile, which aids in creating a balanced auditory experience when typing.

Ultimately, while the Tomcat (Heavy) and Viola Tricolor share the same materials for both their top and bottom housings, the combined effect of polycarbonate and nylon creates a unique dynamic in each switch. The polycarbonate top enhances the sharpness and clarity of sound on keystroke release, while the nylon bottom deepens the overall sound when pressing down a key. This harmonious interplay of materials ensures that users of both switches can enjoy a similarly satisfying typing experience, with each component contributing distinctively to sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, some interesting distinctions emerge. The Tomcat (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, while the Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams but lacks a specified actuation force. This suggests that while the Tomcat (Heavy) provides a clear and defined resistance at the point of actuation, the Viola Tricolor's actuation threshold is unknown, making it difficult to fully gauge its typing characteristics. In terms of overall weight, the Tomcat (Heavy) is the heavier option due to its known 55-gram actuation force, while the Viola Tricolor, with an unspecified actuation force, may lean towards being lighter depending on its actual force, even though its bottom out force is quite similar. For users who prefer a more tactile typing experience, the Viola Tricolor might appeal despite its unclear actuation, while those seeking a defined and heavier typing feel would find the Tomcat (Heavy) more suitable.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, the Tomcat (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Viola Tricolor offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference means that users of the Tomcat switch experience a shallower press, which can contribute to faster response times and a more immediate feel, appealing particularly to gamers. In contrast, the longer 3.8 mm travel distance of the Viola Tricolor may provide a more pronounced and cushioned typing experience, which some users may prefer for its depth and tactile feedback. Ultimately, those seeking swift keystrokes might lean toward the Tomcat, while those who favor a more substantial feel will likely enjoy the Viola Tricolor.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch creates a resonant sound profile that is smooth yet pronounced, making it suitable for users who prefer a cleaner sound without the interruptions of tactile bumps. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a sound that is distinctly thuddy and punchy, delivering a deeper, richer experience that is bass-heavy. This sound profile provides a more textured auditory feedback with low-pitched tones that contribute to a distinct typing atmosphere. While both switches have appealing sound qualities, they cater to different preferences: the Tomcat emphasizes a smooth operation, while the Viola adds character with its bolder acoustics.

Regarding feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) is designed for an ultra-smooth typing experience with its Ly stems, allowing for uninterrupted keystrokes that some may find pleasing for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a medium tactile sensation that balances pronounced feedback without being overly stark or scratchy. The invigorating feel of the Viola provides a snappy responsiveness that enhances the typing experience, appealing to those who appreciate tactile feedback. While the Tomcat leans toward a smooth and linear feel, the Viola engages typists with a satisfying tactile sensation that invites an immersive experience.

In summary, both the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor embody distinctive qualities that cater to varied typing preferences. The Tomcat’s resonant sound and super smooth feel make it ideal for those seeking a straightforward and refined experience, whereas the Viola offers a punchy sound and invigorating tactile feedback that adds vibrancy to typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness or a pronounced tactile experience, as both switches deliver unique and enjoyable typing sensations.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, your choice should hinge on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you favor a smooth, linear action that delivers a satisfying resonance and you appreciate a medium-heavy keystroke without tactile bumps, the Tomcat (Heavy) is an excellent choice. Its 64-gram bottom-out force will provide the necessary feedback for those who enjoy a consistent and fluid typing experience, making it suitable for both intensive typing sessions and gaming. Conversely, if you are drawn to a more character-rich typing experience, the Viola Tricolor is the way to go. With its pronounced tactile feedback and a thuddy, bass-heavy sound, this switch offers an invigorating feel while ensuring you stay engaged with each keystroke. The 63.5-gram actuation force, combined with its unique acoustic profile, strikes an ideal balance for typists who revel in that punchy feedback without excessive tactile variability. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you want to engage with your keyboard, be it smooth and fluid or lively and textured.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn more