Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to the desired typing experience, and two notable contenders are the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. The Tomcat (Heavy) is a linear switch, renowned for its Ly stems that facilitate an exceptionally smooth typing experience, complemented by a resonant sound profile that adds a unique auditory character to every keystroke. It appeals to those who prioritize fluidity and speed, making it a favorable choice for gamers or typists who value seamless keypresses without tactile interruption. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a balanced medium tactility, making it an optimal choice for office environments where quietude is paramount. Its innovative design avoids traditional silicone dampeners, instead employing precision-engineered stem railings that provide both a silent operation and crisp feedback, catering to users who appreciate tactile nuances without the accompanying noise. Each switch has its distinct advantages—whether you prefer the smooth linearity of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) or the satisfying yet silent tactility of the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. However, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
64g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, the distinctions begin with their top housings. The Tomcat (Heavy) features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer composition that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. This rigidity allows for clearer sound resonation, especially important for users who value sound clarity and the aesthetic enhancement that clear housings provide, particularly when RGB lighting is involved. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer structure. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is more muted and rounded, appealing to users who may prefer a less harsh auditory experience. Thus, while both switches offer distinct sound characteristics from their top housings, they cater to different auditory preferences.
The bottom housing of the Tomcat (Heavy) and the WS Silent Tactile, interestingly, both employ nylon. This choice leads to similar outcomes in terms of sound profile between the two switches when it comes to sound absorption and feel during typing. Both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's inherent properties, which cushion sound and provide a smoother typing experience. This shared material choice means that regardless of the top housing differences, users will likely experience a consistent bottoming-out sound and tactile sensation when using both switches. Thus, while the top housings contribute to the overall character of the sound, the nylon bottom housing ensures a baseline of similarity between these two switches.
Ultimately, the interplay of the different materials creates a unique typing experience in each switch. The polycarbonate top of the Tomcat (Heavy) provides a pronounced auditory clarity during release, aligning well with its design philosophy of sharp sound profiles. The nylon top of the WS Silent Tactile, on the other hand, offers a softer auditory output that ensures sound absorption is prioritized. Therefore, potential users need to consider their sound profile preferences carefully; they will find the Tomcat (Heavy) excels in crisper acoustics while the WS Silent Tactile is favored for a muted typing experience. However, the shared nylon bottom housing contributes to an overarching similarity that amplifies the potential for both switches to deliver a satisfying auditory and tactile typing experience despite their aesthetic and tonal differences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, significant differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Tomcat (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams, requiring a moderately heavy push to register a keystroke, while the WS Silent Tactile switch lacks a specified actuation force, making it difficult to establish a direct comparison in this aspect. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Tomcat's at 64 grams and the WS Silent Tactile's at 63.5 grams, indicating that both switches provide a relatively similar experience when pressed to their maximum. Overall, the Tomcat (Heavy) can be classified as the heavier switch due to its specified actuation force, while the WS Silent Tactile's unknown actuation force leaves its lightweight nature uncertain. Those who prefer a more reinforced typing experience may lean towards the Tomcat, whereas users seeking a lighter feel might enjoy the unknown dynamics of the WS Silent Tactile.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, the Tomcat (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile. The difference in travel distance may influence tactile feedback and overall typing experience. With the Tomcat (Heavy) providing a more pronounced depth, it may cater to users who appreciate a more substantial keystroke and tactile feedback. Conversely, the WS Silent Tactile, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or those who favor quicker response times, although it might feel somewhat abrupt to some users. Ultimately, while both switches offer a similar overall feel in terms of usability, the Tomcat (Heavy) provides a deeper, more immersive experience with its longer travel distance.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20.
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 Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch presents a resonant profile that contributes to a distinct acoustic presence during typing. This sonic quality can be particularly pronounced depending on the keyboard construction and keycap choice, making it suitable for those who enjoy the audible feedback of their switches. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch is engineered specifically for quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for office environments. It avoids traditional silicone dampeners, allowing for a softer, yet distinct sound. Its medium actuation force requirement and neutral sound profile ensure that it balances noise control without compromising on auditory feedback, appealing to those who seek a more subdued typing experience.
When evaluating feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch boasts an exceptionally smooth typing experience, courtesy of its Ly stems, which offer an effortless glide from keypress to keypress. This linear feel is ideal for users who prefer an uninterrupted typing experience without tactile bumps. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch features a medium tactility that provides inherent feedback without being obtrusive. Its invigorating and accented qualities create an engaging typing sensation that offers a noticeable but not overwhelming tactile response. This blend of features ensures a snappy yet approachable feel, appealing to a broad range of typists, from novices to seasoned veterans.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Tomcat switch emphasizes a resonant, smooth experience, perfect for tactile feedback enthusiasts who appreciate the auditory element. Meanwhile, the WS Silent Tactile stands out with its quiet but engaging performance, combining tactility with noise reduction, making it especially suitable for quieter settings. Users seeking a more audibly expressive experience will certainly find satisfaction in the Tomcat, while those in need of discretion without sacrificing tactile feedback would benefit from the WS Silent Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on one's prioritization of sound versus feel, as well as the intended environment for their keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch largely depends on your typing environment and personal preferences. If you enjoy a smooth and invigorating experience that provides a little more resistance, the Tomcat (Heavy) is an excellent option, especially if you appreciate a resonant sound profile that enhances the tactile feedback of your typing. This switch is well-suited for users who want a more immersive experience, making it great for casual gaming or creative work at home. On the other hand, if you’re primarily typing in a shared workspace or need to keep noise to a minimum, the WS Silent Tactile switch is the way to go. Its precision-engineered design delivers a subtle yet satisfying tactile feedback while prioritizing a quiet operation, making it ideal for office environments where you may need to type without disturbing others. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize smoothness and sound or tactility and silence in your keyboard experience.
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