Bsun Tomcat vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Bsun Tomcat and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, each tailored to cater to different typing preferences. The Tomcat, recognized for its Ly stems, delivers a super smooth linear typing experience, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize quick, uninterrupted key presses without tactile feedback. Its resonant sound profile adds an engaging auditory element to the typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches offer a distinctive tactile sensation with a pronounced bump, combining the deep "thock" of U4T bottoms with the quiet operation of U4 tops. This blend results in a refined sound profile that is both muted and bassy, appealing to users who appreciate a more luxurious and responsive feel while typing. While both switches offer unique advantages—smoothness vs. tactical feedback—it's essential to delve deeper into their specific characteristics to determine which switch is a better fit for your individual preferences.

By the numbers

Bsun Tomcat Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$2.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the Bsun Tomcat and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, notable differences emerge that influence their overall sound profiles. The Tomcat features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffer composition. This allows for more clarity and resonance in the audio feedback. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic appeal, particularly when RGB lighting is in use, making it a popular choice for users seeking vibrant visual effects combined with clear sound. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary blend of plastics in its top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This softer material creates a richer and deeper sound profile, diverging from the high-pitched clarity of polycarbonate. Thus, while both materials serve functional roles in sound production, the Tomcat emphasizes crispness, while the U4Tx RGB leans toward warmth.

The bottom housing of both switches showcases another layer of contrast, albeit with some similarities. The Tomcat employs a nylon bottom housing, which is celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer composition. Nylon’s properties allow it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder type of acoustic feedback that appeals to users who prefer a muted sound experience. The U4Tx RGB, on the other hand, also incorporates the proprietary "boba plastic" for its bottom housing. This choice mirrors the characteristics of the U4Tx RGB's top housing, producing a similar rich sound profile that retains the depth and fullness attributed to softer plastics like nylon. Therefore, while the materials differ in construction between the two models, they ultimately yield rich, satisfying auditory experiences.

In considering the impact of these housing materials on overall switch performance, it is essential to understand how the combination of both top and bottom materials influences sound during use. The Tomcat's blend of a rigid polycarbonate top and a softer nylon bottom results in a sound profile that is crisp on key release while grounding the bottom-out sound in a more substantial tone. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB offers consistent tonal qualities with its dual use of "boba plastic," ensuring a harmonious balance of sound throughout the keystroke. As a result, users of both switches can expect pleasing auditory feedback, albeit with distinct characteristics tailored to their preferences. The shared attributes found in their bottom housings mean that while the top housings might differ in sound profile impact, the overall experience of typing on either switch remains rewarding and tailored to different types of users and their desired sound aesthetics.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Tomcat linear switch to the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are distinct differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Tomcat features an actuation force of 45 grams, which is categorized as medium-light, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a lighter feel that allows for prolonged typing sessions with less fatigue. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB has an unspecified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, classified as medium-heavy. This suggests that while the actuation force remains unknown, the bottom out experience indicates a firmer push, aligning with the preferences of users who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback during typing. Ultimately, the Tomcat's overall setup results in a lighter feel compared to the heavier bottom out force of the U4Tx RGB, catering to two different user preferences: those seeking comfort over extended use versus those desiring a more substantial tactile experience.

Travel distance

Both the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making their travel distances identical. This means that when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch, users will experience the same physical distance from the top to the bottom, resulting in similar results in terms of key feel and response. Since both switches share the same travel distance, there is no distinction in this aspect, allowing for a uniform typing experience regardless of which switch is utilized.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bsun Tomcat linear switches produce a resonant sound profile that tends to be more pronounced during key presses, providing users with a satisfying auditory feedback. This sound profile can enhance the overall typing experience, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic characteristic. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switches deliver a muted sound that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Their deeper "thock" upon bottoming out combined with a quieter topping out creates a unique sound signature, allowing for a bassy richness that adds depth to the auditory experience. Combined with the choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.

When it comes to feel, the Tomcat switches are renowned for their Ly stems, which deliver a super smooth typing experience. This smoothness is particularly appreciated by typists seeking rapid key presses without any interruptions. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB switches are characterized by a sharp tactile bump that offers a luxurious typing experience. This tactility gives the U4Tx switches a more pronounced feedback during activation, making them appealing to users who favor tactile sensations while typing. Given these qualities, both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different user preferences—smoothness versus pronounced tactility.

In conclusion, the Bsun Tomcat linear switches and Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switches each provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to varying needs. The Tomcat's resonant sound and smooth feel make it ideal for users who enjoy unmistakable acoustic feedback and seamless key presses. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switches provide a rich, bassy sound profile along with a distinctly tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference, whether one prioritizes a smooth linear typing experience or seeks the tactile feedback of a well-rounded switch.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you seek a smooth and light typing experience with a bottom-out force of just 54 grams, the Tomcat is an excellent option, especially if you appreciate a resonant sound profile and a fluid feel that’s ideal for rapid typing or gaming scenarios. However, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and enjoy a heavier feel while typing—with a bottom-out force of 65 grams—then the U4Tx RGB will be more suitable for you. Its luxurious "thock" sound combined with a muted quality provides a unique auditory experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying tactile engagement with each keystroke. In essence, choose the Tomcat for speed and smoothness, and opt for the U4Tx RGB when you value tactile feedback and a deeper sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

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Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more