Bsun Tomcat vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Tomcat and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to the unique characteristics of different options. Two popular linear switches that stand out are the Bsun Tomcat and the KTT Wine Red. The Tomcat switches are celebrated for their Ly stems, which provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, offering a refined feel that many typists appreciate. They also produce a resonant sound profile that can add a satisfying auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switches boast a pillowy light feel combined with a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, making them ideal for those who enjoy a slightly more cushioned response along with a bassy, low-pitched auditory feedback. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, their distinct sound profiles and typing sensations may appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Extended spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Tomcat and the KTT Wine Red switches present an intriguing comparison in terms of their top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, high pitch, and clarity. Polycarbonate's unique properties allow it to resonate effectively, contributing to a crisp and articulate sound when keys are pressed. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for showcasing RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Because both the Tomcat and Wine Red share this material for their top housings, users can expect a synchronized performance in terms of sound clarity when using either switch.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches differ significantly, with the Tomcat employing a nylon material while the Wine Red features polycarbonate. This divergence considerably impacts the acoustic characteristics and typing experience. Nylon's softer and more absorbent properties create a deeper, fuller sound profile, which dampens the sharpness of the sound created in the top housing. When typing on the Tomcat, users may notice a rounder bottom-out feel and sound, while the wine red's polycarbonate bottom will invoke a similar clarity and sharpness as its top housing. This contrast highlights the different auditory experiences offered by the two switches: the Tomcat's sound profiles being more rounded and rich, while the Wine Red's might retain more of that clarity found in the key release.
To summarize, the Bsun Tomcat and KTT Wine Red switches showcase both similarities and differences in their construction that ultimately affect their sound profiles. Users can expect a consistently clear sound from the top housings due to their shared polycarbonate material. However, the key experience will differ when pressing the switches, as the nylon bottom housing in the Tomcat provides a softer sound, contrasting with the sharper resonance of the Wine Red’s polycarbonate bottom. In this way, the overall acoustic experience of each switch will be influenced by the unique combination of top and bottom housing materials, allowing for a tailored typing experience depending on individual preference.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Tomcat and KTT Wine Red linear switches, both exhibit similar actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users seeking a medium-light typing experience. The Tomcat features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, while the Wine Red has slightly lighter actuation at 44 grams and a marginally higher bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while the Tomcat requires a tad more force to initiate a keystroke, both switches provide comparable feedback when pressed fully down. As a result, users can expect similarly efficient and comfortable typing experiences, whether they lean towards lighter key presses for prolonged use or a bit more resistance for a substantial feel. Overall, the Wine Red is the lighter option, while the Tomcat is the heavier one.
Travel distance
The Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch differ notably in their travel distances, with the Tomcat measuring 3.6 mm and the Wine Red at 4 mm. This makes the Tomcat the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive, quicker actuation that is often favored by gamers. In contrast, the Wine Red, with its longer travel distance, provides a more substantial depth that some users may find more satisfying, especially for typing or extended use where a pronounced feel is desired. While both switches offer their unique benefits, the choice ultimately hinges on individual preferences regarding response and feel, with the Tomcat's shorter travel distance delivering quicker engagement, and the Wine Red offering a more deliberate tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99, whereas the KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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
The sound characteristics of the Bsun Tomcat linear switch are highlighted by a resonant profile that enhances the overall typing experience. This sound can be attributed to the switch's design, which promotes a certain depth and resonance as keys are pressed. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is noted for its deep, rich sound, characterized as both bassy and low-pitched. This provides a satisfying auditory feedback that resembles the comforting depth found in bass tones. Despite the differences in their sound descriptions, both switches can yield a pleasant acoustic experience depending on the keyboard setup, including the board and keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, the Tomcat switch is renowned for featuring Ly stems that create exceptionally smooth key presses. This quality promotes fluidity during typing, which many typists find enhances their overall experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red linear switch is distinguished by its pillowy light type feel. This sensation might offer a different typing experience, described as soft and comfortable, adding to the enjoyment while typing. While the Tomcat emphasizes a smooth action, the Wine Red focuses on delivering an inviting touch, showcasing diverse tactile experiences available in linear switches.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Tomcat and KTT Wine Red linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Tomcat boasts a resonant sound and a super smooth feel, while the Wine Red provides a deep, rich acoustic profile and a pillow-like touch. While you can expect certain differences in sound and feel, depending on personal preference, both switches promise to deliver enjoyable typing experiences, allowing typists to achieve satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and typing style. If you value an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Tomcat switch, with its Ly stems, is likely the best fit for you. This switch offers a resonant sound profile that many typists appreciate, allowing for a satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pillow-like feel combined with a deeper, bassy sound, the KTT Wine Red switch would be more suitable. While both switches have a similar bottom-out force, it's the unique auditory and tactile sensations they provide that set them apart. Therefore, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether it's the smoothness and resonance of the Tomcat or the richness and comfort of the Wine Red—before making your final decision. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, so it all comes down to your personal typing experience.