Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) vs. Durock White Lotus

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly affect your typing experience, and two popular options worth considering are the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the Durock White Lotus. The Tomcat (Heavy) switches are known for their linear design, featuring Ly stems that provide a remarkably smooth typing feel, complemented by a rich and resonant sound profile. This makes them an excellent choice for users who prefer undisturbed, linear keystrokes and quick actuation, perfect for gaming and rapid typing. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switches offer a tactile experience characterized by a subtle yet satisfying feedback – an ideal feature for typists who appreciate a gentle bump without the jarring resistance of more pronounced tactile switches. With their easy-to-press mechanism and the added benefit of vibrant RGB lighting thanks to a removable light column, the White Lotus shines in both functionality and aesthetics, especially for those engaged in extended typing sessions. While both switches cater to different preferences, choosing between them depends on whether you prioritize smoothness and speed or a tactile and visually striking typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

Durock White Lotus Tactile

$2.99 per 10

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the Durock White Lotus, we find intriguing similarities and subtle differences. The Tomcat (Heavy) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the White Lotus employs a modified PC & UPE blend for its top housing. While the specifics of the UPE blend introduce a unique feel, polycarbonate’s established characteristics suggest that both housings may exhibit a degree of transparency beneficial for RGB lighting, albeit the tactile experience might vary due to the blending of materials in the White Lotus.

On the bottom housing front, both the Tomcat (Heavy) and the White Lotus feature nylon, a classic choice known for its capacity to absorb sound and create warmer, rounder tonal qualities. The use of nylon in both switches ensures that each will deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile. This consistency in bottom housing material reinforces the overall auditory experience with both switches, despite their distinct top housing options. With nylon, users can expect a similar key feel and bottom-out sound across both models, contributing to a cohesive typing experience while maintaining individualized top-end characteristics.

Ultimately, the differences in top housing materials highlight the distinctive sound that's produced during the release phase of key presses, while the nylon bottom housing ensures a rich, consistent depth in sound for both models when the keys are fully pressed down. Consequently, if you are seeking similar results in sound profile despite the variance in top housing, focusing on the nylon bottom housing will provide that commonality. Thus, while the Tomcat (Heavy) leans towards a crisper sound due to polycarbonate and the modifications of the UPE blend in the White Lotus offer a more premium feel, the underlying similarities in nylon will create synergies in auditory depth and tactile response when typing.

Weight

The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Tomcat (Heavy) requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the White Lotus features a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This disparity means that typists or gamers who prefer a more substantial push feel and a firmer typing experience would likely gravitate toward the Tomcat (Heavy), while those who seek a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons would favor the White Lotus. Overall, the Tomcat (Heavy) is the heavier option, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback, whereas the White Lotus offers a lighter experience, ideal for extended use without causing fatigue.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the White Lotus switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Tomcat (Heavy), making it potentially more suitable for those who appreciate a deeper, more substantial feel when typing or gaming. The Tomcat's shorter travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a snappier response, ideal for fast-paced gaming, where quicker actuation can enhance performance. If you're looking for a switch that provides a traditional typing experience with a fuller depth, the Durock White Lotus is the better option. Conversely, if faster response times are your priority, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is more aligned with those preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is noted for its resonance, which suggests a deep and rich auditory experience that many typists might find satisfying, especially in a personal or dedicated typing environment. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch is characterized by its low-pitched and neutral sound. This low-pitched quality often results in a mellower tone, making it suitable for a range of settings, including workplaces where a more subdued auditory response is preferred. Thus, while the Tomcat provides a more resonant and potentially louder experience, the White Lotus contributes to a quieter typing atmosphere, suitable for those mindful of their noise levels.

When it comes to the feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch is renowned for its smoothness due to its Ly stems, making for a seamless typing experience that minimizes friction and enhances the overall comfort while typing. In contrast, the White Lotus offers a sensation that is easy to press and mild, with gentle resistance that facilitates effortless key activation, thereby reducing finger fatigue during extensive typing sessions. While the Tomcat focuses on a polished, linear feel, the White Lotus provides a more tactile engagement through its subtle response without being overly aggressive. Each switch caters to a different typing preference, making them appealing to distinct types of users.

In conclusion, both the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and Durock White Lotus switches offer unique advantages that cater to varying preferences in sound and feel. The Tomcat's resonant sound paired with its smooth typing experience attracts linear switch enthusiasts, while the low-pitched, neutral sound of the White Lotus captures those who prefer a light tactile sensation with less noise. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will boil down to personal preference — whether one desires the smooth and resonant feedback of the Tomcat or the gentle and subtle tactility of the White Lotus.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and use cases. If you lean towards a heavier keystroke and prioritize a smooth, unimpeded typing experience, the Tomcat (Heavy) is an excellent choice—particularly if you enjoy a resonant sound profile that adds character to your typing. This switch's medium-heavy bottom-out force of 64 grams is well-suited for users who prefer a firmer sensation while typing, making it ideal for gaming or tasks that require decisive key presses. On the other hand, if you find joy in a light tactile feel that doesn't overwhelm, the White Lotus would be the better option. Its medium-light force of 56 grams provides comfortable actuation, making it ideal for extended typing sessions and office environments where noise levels matter. Additionally, the White Lotus features a light tactile bump that enhances your typing experience without creating unnecessary distraction. This switch is particularly appealing for those who appreciate an interactive feel while enjoying a serene and gentle typing experience. Therefore, consider your environment and typing preferences carefully when making your decision between these two distinct but equally enjoyable switches.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Durock White Lotus Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more