Bsun Tomcat vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing style and preferences, the Bsun Tomcat and Gazzew U4 offer distinct experiences that cater to different needs. The Tomcat, recognized for its Ly stems, assures users of a super smooth typing experience complemented by a resonant sound profile. Ideal for those who favor uninterrupted and fluid keystrokes, it excels in environments where speed and efficiency are prioritized. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 brings a tactile element to the table, featuring a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump along with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Its whisper-quiet sound profile makes it an excellent choice for professionals or gamers seeking a balanced blend of feedback and discretion. While the Tomcat emphasizes smoothness and speed, the U4 caters to those who appreciate tactile feedback without the noise. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Tomcat Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$2.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Bsun Tomcat and Gazzew U4 switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Tomcat utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer characteristics, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. This material's translucency makes it particularly advantageous when incorporating RGB lighting, enhancing both aesthetics and sound clarity. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary "boba plastic" blend for its top housing, which boasts a softness that contributes to a richer, deeper sound profile. This variance in housing materials highlights how the Tomcat focuses on producing a more pronounced high pitch, while the U4 aims for a warm, mellow tone.

When it comes to the bottom housings, the Bsun Tomcat employs nylon, a classic choice known for yielding a fuller and deeper sound profile because of its sound-absorbing properties. Similarly, the Gazzew U4 also incorporates its proprietary "boba plastic" blend in the bottom housing, further enhancing its deep and rich acoustic signature. This parallels the Tomcat in terms of achieving a robust sound but diverges in materials used in the top sections. As a result, the bottom-out feel and sound of key presses will be more akin in both switches due to the softer nature of the plastics they share in their respective bottom housings, resulting in a rounder and fuller auditory experience.

Ultimately, both switches bring unique qualities to the table through their differing top and identical bottom housing materials. For users seeking specific auditory characteristics, this means that while the Tomcat offers a bright and clear sound from its polycarbonate top, the U4’s softer top creates a mellow tone. However, when pressed, the bottom housing—though made from different materials—brings about a similar richer sound experience shared between both models. This results in switches that cater to different preferences in sound profiles while still allowing for comparable acoustic outcomes due to the common traits of the soft bottom housings.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users will experience a similar ease of key press when triggering a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Tomcat at 54 grams and the U4 at 62 grams. This means that while both switches require the same force to activate, the U4 requires more force to bottom out, resulting in a firmer feel upon full key depression. Overall, the Tomcat is the lighter option due to its lower bottom out force, making it potentially more comfortable for long typing sessions, whereas the U4’s heavier bottom-out force appeals to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means they provide an identical experience in terms of the distance traveled when pressing down on a key. Because both switches have the same measurement, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation feel and consistency. The equal travel distance can lead to a comparable typing experience, whether one prefers the smoothness of a linear switch like the Tomcat or the tactile feedback offered by the U4.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Bsun Tomcat linear switch is characterized by a resonant sound profile, which can produce a more pronounced noise compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch. While the Tomcat's sound may vary based on the keyboard's construction and keycap choices, it generally leans towards a more vibrant acoustic experience. In contrast, the U4's sound is described as muted and low-pitched, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience. The combination of these qualities means that if you desire a more audible and dynamic typing experience, the Tomcat will deliver, whereas the U4 caters to those who prefer a hushed ambiance with their keystrokes.

When it comes to feel, the Tomcat linear switch is designed for a super smooth typing experience due to its Ly stems, which allow for uninterrupted travel without tactile feedback. This can create a more fluid motion that some typists may prefer for rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is defined by its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump that offers a pronounced tactile feedback. This distinct bump, coupled with a plush bottom-out sensation, provides a unique tactile experience that can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction.

To summarize, the Bsun Tomcat and Gazzew U4 switches offer distinctly different sound and feel profiles tailored to varied user preferences. While the Tomcat provides a resonant and more audible experience with a smooth linear feel, the U4 appeals to those seeking a quiet typing experience with sharp tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize sound dynamics or a pronounced tactile response, your choice will shape your overall typing experience. Both switches have attributes that cater to different typing styles, allowing keyboard enthusiasts to find a switch that fits their needs effectively.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, your preferences and typing style will significantly influence your decision. If you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth, linear experience that provides minimal resistance, the Tomcat switch may be ideal for you. Its 54-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for fast typists or gamers who enjoy rapid key presses without the tactile feedback. The unique Ly stems provide a silky-smooth feel and a resonant sound profile, making it a pleasant choice for long typing sessions or more casual use. On the other hand, if you enjoy a pronounced tactile sensation with every key press, the Gazzew U4 is worth considering. With a bottom-out force of 62 grams, it offers a more substantial feedback and an exhilarating tactile bump that can enhance the typing experience, especially for those who love to feel their keystrokes. The U4’s whisper-quiet operation adds to its charm, making it an excellent option for shared workspaces or late-night typing without disturbing others. Ultimately, your choice comes down to whether you prioritize smooth linear action or satisfying tactile feedback, so consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more