Bsun Tomcat vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Bsun Tomcat and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, each catering to different typing preferences. The Tomcat, known for its linear design and Ly stems, delivers a remarkably smooth typing experience coupled with a resonant sound profile that many typists appreciate. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer an uninterrupted keypress and fast-paced gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro stands out as a tactile switch, offering medium tactility with a fairly light touch and a neutral sound signature. This balance positions it well as a "Goldilocks" option for users seeking a satisfying, yet unobtrusive, tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style—smooth and seamless versus tactile and balanced. 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

Dareu Violet Gold Pro Tactile

$2.99 per 10

$7.73

$4.76 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Bsun Tomcat and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro share a notable similarity, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches benefit from polycarbonate's properties, which allow for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, enhancing its ability to produce clear and resonant audio. Additionally, its translucent nature makes it an optimal choice for RGB lighting applications, as it facilitates the diffusion of light. As a result, users can expect similar visual aesthetics alongside an auditory experience that emphasizes clarity and brightness in both models.

In contrast, both the Tomcat and the Violet Gold Pro utilize nylon for their bottom housing, contributing unique auditory characteristics. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than its harder counterparts, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during keystrokes. This differentiation in material for the bottom housing means that while both switches deliver a rich audio experience, the sound signature will resonate differently based on the specific blend of the materials. Consequently, users can anticipate a full-bodied sound while typing, enhancing the overall tactile experience irrespective of the model.

The interplay between the top and bottom housing materials in both switches underscores the engineering thought that goes into their design. Since the top polycarbonate housing is primarily responsible for the sound emitted when a key is released, it pairs with the nylon bottom housing, which influences the bottom-out sound as well as the felt typing experience. This means that both switches, despite their branding differences, achieve a harmonious balance between the crispness of the top and the warmth of the bottom during use. Therefore, regardless of the choice between the Tomcat and the Violet Gold Pro, users will enjoy a cohesive auditory and tactile performance, enriched by the distinctive properties of both housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Tomcat linear switch with the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we find some similarities and notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke, leading to a similarly responsive typing experience. However, the Tomcat switch has a defined bottom out force of 54 grams, which indicates a firmer feel when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Violet Gold Pro is currently unavailable, so we cannot make a direct comparison in that regard. Consequently, while both switches share the same actuation force, the Tomcat's known bottom out force suggests it is the heavier option overall, providing a more substantial feel, especially when fully pressed. This difference may make the Tomcat a better choice for those who prefer a firmer typing experience, while the Violet Gold Pro might appeal to users seeking a lighter touch, depending on its undisclosed bottom out characteristics.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, the Tomcat measures 3.6 mm, while the Violet Gold Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Tomcat the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter travel distances can facilitate quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro, with its longer travel distance, might be favored by those who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing down a key, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback. Thus, the choice between these switches largely depends on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is characterized by a resonant quality that enhances the auditory experience during typing. Its smooth actuation results in a sound that is likely pleasant and satisfying to many users, though it may be more pronounced compared to other linear switches. Conversely, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch presents a neutral sound signature. This means it strikes a balance that is neither too loud nor too muted, making it versatile for various situations, whether at home, in a quieter office environment, or during casual gaming sessions. Both switches can cater well to different preferences, but the Tomcat might appeal more to those who enjoy a richer auditory feedback, while the Violet Gold Pro is suited for users seeking a more subtle sound.

When it comes to feel, the Tomcat linear switch excels with its Ly stems, providing a super smooth typing experience that eliminates any tactile bumps and allows for uninterrupted keystrokes. This smoothness can make the switch feel fast and fluid, ideal for typing or gaming where speed is essential. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch embodies a medium level of tactility, featuring a stepped response. This design provides a sense of two stages during the keystroke, allowing users to perceive the actuation point without overwhelming tactile feedback. For newcomers, this means the Violet Gold Pro offers a more moderate and potentially easier transition into tactile switches without feeling jarring.

In summary, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch each offer distinct characteristics tailored to different types of users. The Tomcat is likely perfect for those who prioritize smoothness and an enhanced auditory experience, while the Violet Gold Pro serves as a balanced option with a subtle tactile feedback and neutral sound profile, making it a solid choice for those who want a versatile and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer the rich sound and smooth action of the Tomcat or the mild tactility and neutrality of the Violet Gold Pro.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smooth and consistent typing experience, the Tomcat linear switch is an excellent option, especially for fast typists who appreciate its medium-light bottom-out force of 54 grams and resonant sound profile. This switch is particularly suitable if you often find yourself in a noise-sensitive environment or prefer a seamless keystroke without tactile interruptions. Conversely, if you enjoy feeling a slight tactile bump during your typing but still want a lighter touch, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch serves as a well-balanced choice. Its neutral sound signature and medium tactility make it versatile enough for both casual typing and professional use, allowing you to engage comfortably in both situations. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke or a more tactile feedback experience. Choosing between these two switches comes down to whether you want the linear fluidity of the Tomcat or the balanced tactile sensation of the Violet Gold Pro.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

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Dareu Violet Gold Pro Tactile

$7.73

$4.76 per 10

Learn more