Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) vs. Gateron Weightlessness

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style, making the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the Gateron Weightlessness two fascinating options. The Tomcat (Heavy), renowned for its Ly stems, provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience that appeals to those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. This linear switch is characterized by a consistent resistance throughout its travel, resulting in a resonant sound profile that can enhance the overall typing experience, catering to gamers and typists who require precision. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness offers a tactile feel that strikes a balance between feedback and smoothness, with a subtle to moderate tactile bump that can improve typing accuracy while maintaining comfort. Coupled with a balanced sound profile, this tactile switch is ideal for users who enjoy a tangible response without excessive noise. 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

Gateron Weightlessness Tactile

$2.99 per 10

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When it comes to the housing materials used in the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the Gateron Weightlessness, significant contrasts can be observed in their top housings. The Tomcat (Heavy) employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the housing's resonance, offering a clearer sound when typing, especially when RGB lighting is involved. In contrast, the Weightlessness features a nylon top housing, which is softer and thus results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. The nylon material absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder and less pronounced acoustical output compared to the sharper sounds generated by the Tomcat's polycarbonate construction.

However, both switches have a commonality in their bottom housings, as they both utilize nylon material. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper, more muted sound profile for both switch types, thanks to its inherent properties that absorb vibrations better than harder plastics. Thus, when typing on either switch, users will experience similar bottom-out feedback, with the nylon dampening the sound and providing a uniform, plush feel when the key is pressed down. This shared characteristic helps create a sense of consistency in the typing experience, despite the differences in the top housing materials.

Ultimately, the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch will be influenced by how the distinct materials interact. The polycarbonate top housing in the Tomcat (Heavy) will deliver a more resonant sound as the keys are released, while the nylon's properties in both switches help ensure that bottoming out feels pleasant and muffled. Therefore, even with differing top materials, the nylon bottom housing in both the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and Gateron Weightlessness will provide a significant common ground, allowing for a balanced and gratifying typing experience through the blending of both sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Tomcat (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams but does not specify a bottom out force, leaving that detail unknown. This makes the Weightlessness the lighter option overall, potentially offering a more effortless typing experience suitable for extended use, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy)'s greater actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger tactile response in their typing experience. Therefore, users seeking a lighter switch might gravitate towards the Weightlessness, while those who prefer a heavier, more substantial feel in their keystrokes would opt for the Tomcat (Heavy).

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, the Tomcat (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Weightlessness measures 3.4 mm. This makes the Tomcat (Heavy) the switch with the longer travel distance, providing a noticeable depth that some users may prefer for a more pronounced feedback during typing. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness, with a shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers and those who favor rapid response times, as shorter distances often facilitate quicker actuation. Ultimately, choosing between these two will depend on personal preference—those who enjoy a robust tactile experience might gravitate toward the Tomcat, while gamers seeking efficiency may opt for the Weightlessness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is known for its resonant sound profile. This quality provides an engaging auditory experience that sets it apart from other linear switches. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch presents a balanced sound profile, which enhances the tactile feedback while maintaining a more subdued auditory presence. It's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can vary based on factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so users may find different experiences based on their specific setups.

Regarding feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) is celebrated for its Ly stems that contribute to a super smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid key presses without any interruptions. The Weightlessness switch, on the other hand, provides a subtle to moderate tactile feedback, delivering a satisfying bump without being overly pronounced. This makes it suitable for users who appreciate tactile switches but prefer a less aggressive feel, ensuring both comfort and responsiveness.

In conclusion, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and Gateron Weightlessness switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Tomcat offers a captivating resonant sound and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, while the Weightlessness provides a balanced auditory profile with moderate tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile sensation, but both can deliver a gratifying typing experience, albeit in distinct ways.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a firmer touch and enjoy a super smooth typing experience with a resonant sound profile, the Tomcat (Heavy) is an excellent option for you. It offers a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 64 grams that can provide satisfying feedback for those who enjoy a more robust feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you lean towards a gentler, more tactile experience with a subtle to moderate feedback, the Weightlessness will likely suit your needs better. Its unique sound profile complements the tactile feel, making it a great choice if you want a balanced mix of response and smoothness without the heavier actuation force. Ultimately, consider how much resistance you prefer under your fingers and what kind of auditory feedback enhances your typing experience, as these factors will guide you to the switch that will serve you best.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Weightlessness Tactile

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more