Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), a linear switch, is celebrated for its incredibly smooth keystrokes and resonant sound profile, making it an ideal option for users who value quiet and fluid typing without any tactile feedback. This switch type can be especially appealing for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and uninterrupted keystrokes. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a distinct tactile experience with a pronounced 70g bump, providing immersive resistance and a satisfying "thocky" sound. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate tactile feedback, as it enhances the typing experience and can make every keystroke feel intentional and engaging. While both switches have unique characteristics catering to different typing styles, it's important to delve deeper into their specifications and performance to determine which one will suit your individual needs the best. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
64g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, one of the most significant differences is found in the top housing. The Tomcat (Heavy) utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's inherent stiffness allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, especially valuable when RGB lighting is incorporated, as the translucency of polycarbonate showcases the lighting effects effectively. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile opts for a nylon top housing, known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that dampen sound. This key difference can produce distinct auditory characteristics that may influence user preference based on the desired typing sound and feel.
Both switches share the same bottom housing material—nylon—which serves as a unifying factor between the two models. The soft properties of nylon are known to absorb sound, which contributes to creating a duller, rounder sound profile when keys are bottomed out. This aspect makes the bottom housing crucial in determining the overall sound experience during typing, regardless of the top housing material. Therefore, while the Tomcat (Heavy)'s polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper sound on release, the nylon bottom housing of both switches will yield similar deeper sounds when the keys are pressed down.
In essence, the contrasts between the two switches stem from the different top housing materials, with one encouraging a crisper sound and the other fostering a full, warm tone. However, both models benefit from using nylon as their bottom housing, lending a complementary sound signature that helps bridge the differences. As a result, while the auditory experience might differ while typing or releasing the keys, both switches can exhibit a similarly rounded sound profile during the bottom-out phase, making them appealing to users who appreciate the richness that nylon provides.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Tomcat (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams, making it heavier than the WS Heavy Tactile, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out forces, the Tomcat (Heavy) requires 64 grams to bottom out, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a greater bottom out force of 70 grams. This indicates that despite the WS Heavy Tactile being easier to actuate, it requires more force to fully depress compared to the Tomcat (Heavy). Therefore, for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile may be more appealing for extended typing or gaming sessions, while users who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the heavier Tomcat (Heavy) for its firmer feedback. Overall, the choice between these switches greatly depends on individual preferences regarding typing dynamics and sensation.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Tomcat switch provides a deeper keypress experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile’s shorter travel distance might appeal to gamers or users who favor faster response times and a more immediate action. Ultimately, those who prefer a hearty depth in their keystrokes may gravitate towards the Bsun Tomcat, while the Wuque Studio switch could be a better fit for those who prioritize quickness and responsiveness in their typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50.
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 Tomcat (Heavy) switch features a resonant sound profile, which implies a rich and slightly deeper audio character during typing. This is in contrast to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, which is marked by a more clacky and high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each keystroke. The sound qualities of each switch may vary further based on the keyboard construction and keycap material used, but the Tomcat’s resonant qualities suggest a less aggressive yet still engaging auditory experience compared to the vibrant and bright character of the WS Heavy Tactile switch.
In terms of feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) is known for its super smooth typing experience due to its Ly stems, which likely offer a very direct and fluid keypress. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile has a complex profile marked by several descriptive attributes: it provides accented tactility that is both pronounced and inviting without being overwhelming, a bouncy feedback that delivers a lively sensation upon actuation, and a sharp tactile bump that clearly distinguishes each keypress. The invigorating nature of the WS switch combined with its snappy responsiveness suggests a more engaging and dynamic feel compared to the subtle smoothness of the Tomcat.
In summary, while both the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches present unique sensory experiences, they cater to different preferences. The Tomcat offers a smooth and resonant typing experience that focuses on fluidity, while the WS Heavy Tactile provides a more tactile and auditory engagement with a snappy, pronounced feedback. Choosing between them will ultimately depend on whether one prioritizes a seamless touch or an invigoratingly tactile and sonically bright interaction while typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a smooth, unbroken keypress experience without tactile bumps, the Tomcat (Heavy) is an excellent option. With its 64g bottom-out force, it strikes a balance between a substantial feel and a seamless actuation, making it ideal for those who favor a linear switch for gaming or fast-paced typing without disruptions. On the other hand, if you seek a more immersive feedback with pronounced tactile bumps in your keystrokes, the WS Heavy Tactile with its firmer 70g actuation would be more suited for you. Its invigorating, bouncy feel coupled with a captivating "thocky" sound provides an engaging typing experience, perfect for both typing and gaming enthusiasts who appreciate tactile feedback. Ultimately, whether you choose the smooth linear action of the Tomcat or the engaging tactility of the WS Heavy Tactile, your decision should reflect your typing style and the auditory feedback you enjoy, ensuring a satisfying keyboard experience tailored to your preferences.