Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between various options, each with unique characteristics. The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is celebrated for its super smooth typing experience, thanks to its Ly stems, which provide a resonant sound profile that many typists find satisfying. This switch is an excellent choice for those who value a seamless keystroke with a consistent feel, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a distinctively different experience, crafted with a unique PA12 top housing and a POM stem. This combination enhances its soft acoustics profile while providing a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. The Xinhai is categorized as bouncy, clacky, and creamy, appealing to users who enjoy a more dynamic auditory feedback and tactile engagement with each keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Tomcat (Heavy) for a smooth and resonant experience and the Xinhai for a nuanced and lively one. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
64g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and the HMX Xinhai, one notable difference lies in the materials used for the top housing. The Tomcat (Heavy) features a polycarbonate top housing which is known for its stiffness, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This construction enhances the clarity and resonance of sound, making it suitable for those who prefer a bright auditory feedback when typing. In addition to sound characteristics, the translucency of polycarbonate allows RGB lighting to shine through vividly, adding an aesthetic element that enhances the overall experience for users who enjoy customizable lighting effects.
In contrast, the HMX Xinhai utilizes a nylon top housing that promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs vibrations, leading to a more muted auditory feedback. This characteristic can appeal to users who seek a quieter and softer typing experience. Aesthetic variations are also present, as nylon generally does not offer the same level of translucency as polycarbonate, potentially limiting the impact of RGB lighting designs. Hence, while the Tomcat (Heavy) focuses on a brighter sound and visual appeal, the Xinhai offers a more subdued acoustic experience.
Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is made of nylon in both cases. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel experienced when pressing the keys will be similar between the two, characterized by the deeper and fuller tones that nylon provides. As the bottom housing significantly influences the tactile feedback and the sound produced when keys are fully pressed down, users will find that, regardless of the differences in the top housings, the overall playability and acoustic experience remain enjoyable due to the shared properties of the nylon in the bottom housing. In essence, while the top housing materials define distinct sound profiles, the shared nylon bottom housing acts as a harmonizing factor that ensures a satisfying typing sensation in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Tomcat (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch that appeals to users seeking a more substantial feel during typing. In contrast, the Xinhai switch has a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it much easier to press down. This lighter weight might be ideal for those who type for extended periods, as it reduces fatigue over long sessions. Therefore, if one prefers a more tactile typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) would be the better choice; however, for users prioritizing ease and comfort, the HMX Xinhai is the preferable option. Overall, while both switches serve their unique purposes, the Tomcat (Heavy) is the heavier option and may create a more robust experience, whereas the Xinhai offers a lighter touch for effortless keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences in their performance. The Tomcat (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Xinhai offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This 0.2 mm difference suggests that the Xinhai switch provides a more responsive feel, which could be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker reaction times. Conversely, the Tomcat switch, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should reflect your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the sound profile of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, distinct characteristics emerge. The Tomcat (Heavy) is renowned for its resonant sound, producing a pleasing auditory experience that some users may find satisfying. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch creates a clacky sound, which is sharp, bright, and percussive, offering a more pronounced auditory feedback when pressed. It’s important to note that sound can heavily depend on the keyboard's overall design, the choice of keycaps, and the materials used in the board, meaning users could experience variance even within switches of seemingly similar types.
In terms of feel, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch delivers a supremely smooth typing experience, with its Ly stems designed to eliminate any perceived scratchiness. In contrast, the Xinhai switch boasts a combination of bounciness and creaminess. The bouncy quality provides a delightful spring-like response, enhancing the overall feedback during typing. Additionally, the creamy texture allows for a silky and seamless keystroke, providing an enjoyable and effortless typing experience that many users find appealing. This blend of characteristics offers a lively and engaging interaction with the keyboard, contrasting with the Tomcat’s more straightforward smoothness.
Taking into account the sound and feel qualities of both switches, users considering the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) and HMX Xinhai will likely find themselves drawn to different aspects of their typing experience. While the Tomcat emphasizes smoothness and resonant sound, the Xinhai presents a lively bounce and a more pronounced auditory presence with its crisp clack. If you're looking for a smoother, more resonant sound and feel, the Tomcat would be the way to go, while those who enjoy a lively, bouncy typing experience with distinct auditory feedback may gravitate towards the Xinhai. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience no matter which one you choose.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a more substantial key feel with notable resistance, the Tomcat (Heavy) would be ideal, especially if you're looking for a switch that offers a smooth typing experience paired with a resonant sound profile. This switch is particularly well-suited for heavy typists or gamers who prefer a firm tactile feedback that can enhance precision and tactile satisfaction. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a more lively and bouncy feel, the Xinhai switch would be a great fit. Its crisp sound and creamy texture provide a delightful typing experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more responsive and agile keyboard feel. In summary, choose the Tomcat (Heavy) for its substantial resistance and resonant acoustics for a robust typing experience or opt for the Xinhai if you seek a light, bouncy, and responsive switch that enhances both performance and enjoyment.
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