Bsun Tomcat vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Tomcat and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Bsun Tomcat and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue offers distinct experiences that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Tomcat switches are renowned for their Ly stems, delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience accompanied by a resonant sound profile that enhances feedback during use. In contrast, Everglide's Tourmaline Blue switches stand out with their deep, thocky sound profile, enriched by a lengthened single-stage spring that imparts a bouncy feel with each keystroke. While the Tomcat offers a more refined and seamless typing sensation, the Tourmaline Blue provides a satisfying auditory experience and a moderate spring weight, creating an accessible choice for a broad audience. Both switches excel in their own right—whether you prefer the Tomcat's smoothness or the Tourmaline Blue's pronounced feedback—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
45g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Tomcat and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, there are notable similarities and differences that affect their sound profiles and overall performance. Both switches feature polycarbonate as the material for the top housing, which is consistent in both models and leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for more resonant vibrations when a key is pressed, making them ideal for users who prioritize a clear auditory feedback during typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate in the top housing enhances compatibility with RGB lighting, making both switches visually appealing when illuminated. Thus, users seeking a bright, engaging sound experience will find both options appealing for their shared top housing material.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly between the two switches. The Tomcat employs nylon for its bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile owing to nylon's softer nature. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience that contrasts with the sharper profile produced by the polycarbonate top. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue uses polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, leading to a more consistent sound throughout the keystroke. As a result, this switch delivers a uniform clarity in sound, making it more suitable for users who prefer a cohesive auditory feedback without the variance typically brought by the different materials.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the Tomcat allows for a unique division between the quality of the bottom-out sound and that of the release, giving users a distinct tactile sensation while typing. In comparison, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue maintains a uniformity in sound due to its use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings. For those seeking a blend of deep and sharp sounds, the Tomcat may be the better choice, while users who prefer a consistent and crisp auditory experience may gravitate towards the Tourmaline Blue. Regardless of the choice, understanding how the materials interact will enable users to select a switch that best fits their typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are notable differences in both the actuation force and bottom out force. The Tomcat linear switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light option, ideal for those who prefer typing or gaming for extended periods without as much strain. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier force might appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing feel, providing a tactile feedback that some find satisfying. In summary, the Tomcat is the lighter option overall, while the Tourmaline Blue is the heavier switch, offering distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch differ in travel distance, with the Tomcat featuring a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Tourmaline Blue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Tomcat provides a shorter actuation distance, which can contribute to faster response times, making it an appealing choice for gamers who favor quick key presses. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue, with its greater travel distance, may offer a more robust tactile experience that some users find preferable for typing or general use, as the additional depth can prevent the feeling of abruptness associated with shorter switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
The Bsun Tomcat 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is noted for its resonant sound profile, which can add an engaging acoustic depth to your typing experience. This quality allows for a distinct auditory feedback that can enhance the overall enjoyment of using the keyboard. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch produces a deep and thocky sound profile, immersing users in a satisfying auditory environment. While both switches deliver unique sounds, the Tomcat offers a more resonant experience, whereas the Tourmaline Blue provides a characterized thockiness, which makes them both interesting options for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory cue when typing.
When discussing the feel, the Bsun Tomcat switches are renowned for their smooth typing experience, thanks to the use of Ly stems that minimize friction and provide an effortless keystroke. This quality significantly contributes to reducing finger fatigue, particularly during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches feature a bouncy, buttery feel due to their lengthened single-stage spring. This design not only facilitates a seamless keystroke but also emphasizes an easy-to-press action that requires minimal effort. While the Tomcat provides a naturally smooth sensation, the Tourmaline Blue enhances this experience with a responsive and gentle touch, making both switches favorable choices for comfortable typing, albeit with different tactile signatures.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Tomcat and Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches present appealing attributes that cater to different preferences. The Tomcat is characterized by its resonant sound and smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize an auditory experience alongside seamless typing. Conversely, the Tourmaline Blue excels with its thocky sound and bouncy, easy-to-press design, appealing to users who enjoy a more tactile sensation. Ultimately, while both switches have their distinct qualities, they share a common goal of enhancing the typing experience—providing users with choices that can adapt to their individual style and comfort preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, your personal preferences and typing style will play a crucial role. If you favor a medium-light actuation force and prioritize a super smooth typing experience, the Tomcat is an excellent choice. Its resonant sound profile and advanced Ly stems enhance your typing enjoyment, making it perfect for extended sessions or if you prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, if you appreciate a deeper, thocky sound and a more substantial typing experience, the Tourmaline Blue would be your go-to option. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force and satisfying bouncy feel, it’s well-suited for both serious typing and casual use. Additionally, the buttery and easy-to-press nature of these switches offers a balance of comfort and responsiveness, appealing to a wide range of users. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you lean towards a lighter, smoother response with the Tomcat or if you desire a more tactile, resonant experience with the Tourmaline Blue.
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