Bsun Tomcat vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Bsun Tomcat and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Bsun Tomcat is celebrated for its Ly stems, providing a super smooth typing experience complemented by a resonant sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who value fluid key presses and a subtle aural feedback without the tactile bump. In contrast, the WS Dash, a reimagined version of the Magnetic Jade, presents a bright and clacky sound signature paired with a silky smooth keystroke, perfect for users who enjoy a more dynamic auditory experience alongside refined responsiveness. While both switches excel in their respective domains—smoothness and sound profile for the Tomcat, and auditory feedback with a refined touch for the WS Dash—they ultimately cater to different typing styles and 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
30g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Tomcat and the Wuque Studio WS Dash both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a strikingly similar sound profile. This shared material offers a sharper, higher-pitched tone that is notably clear and resonant. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a well-defined auditory experience, making it especially advantageous for users interested in RGB lighting, as the translucency of the material enhances visual effects. The aesthetic appeal is also noteworthy, since a clear polycarbonate housing becomes a defining characteristic for switches that aim for a modern, luminous design. Consequently, users can expect comparable sound clarity and visual aesthetics across both switches due to their identical top housing material.
In contrast, the bottom housings of each switch diverge, as both the Tomcat and WS Dash utilize nylon, a material renowned for its unique acoustic properties. Nylon's softer composition naturally absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and rounder sound profile compared to the stiffer materials typically employed in other switch designs. When typing on either switch, users will experience the rich, full character of the nylon bottom housing, which plays a crucial role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel. Thus, while the Tomcat and WS Dash share the same high-pitched acuity in terms of their top housing performance, their nylon bottom housings provide a counterbalance that enhances the overall typing experience.
In summary, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the Bsun Tomcat and the Wuque Studio WS Dash creates a harmonious dichotomy in their acoustic profiles. While users will appreciate the elevated, crisp sound when pressing the keys – thanks to the polycarbonate – the softer, fuller sounds produced by the nylon will resonate during keystrokes. This overlapping use of materials illuminates how both switches can deliver similar auditory outcomes yet offer distinct overall sound characteristics that cater to different aspects of the typing experience. Ultimately, the thoughtful integration of these housing materials ensures that users of both switches will enjoy a balanced yet uniquely personal experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, both exhibit medium-light characteristics but differ in their actuation forces. The Tomcat has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Dash features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams. This makes the WS Dash more favorable for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue, which can be ideal for work or extensive gaming. In terms of bottom out force, the Tomcat’s force is measured at 54 grams, just slightly lower than the WS Dash’s 55 grams, indicating that both switches require similar effort when bottoming out, with the WS Dash being marginally heavier in this regard. Overall, if your preference leans towards a lighter key feel, the WS Dash would be the better choice, while the Tomcat offers a more substantial touch with its heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, the Tomcat has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Dash measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. Although these distances are relatively close, the Tomcat offers a marginally longer travel, which may appeal to users who appreciate a bit more tactile feedback and travel depth for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS Dash's shorter 3.5 mm travel distance could benefit gamers looking for quicker response times and a more immediate feel, making it better suited for fast-paced gaming scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: those who favor a deeper, more pronounced key press may prefer the Tomcat, while those who prioritize speed and responsiveness might opt for the WS Dash.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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
The Bsun Tomcat linear switch is best known for its resonant sound profile, which tends to create a pleasing audio experience that complements its smooth action. This switch's acoustic characteristics are generally fuller, while the sound it produces is deep and has a bit of echoing quality when bottomed out, making it engaging for typists who enjoy auditory feedback. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch delivers a bright and clacky sound signature, which is often perceived as more percussive and sharper. This distinct sound is particularly vibrant, catering to those who favor a lively auditory feedback during their typing sessions. The overall sound experience of both switches can vary based on external factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but each brings a unique auditory identity that can significantly enhance the typing experience.
Regarding feel, the Tomcat switches are celebrated for their super smooth keystrokes, thanks to their Ly stems, which provide an exceptionally frictionless and consistent typing experience. Users report that the linear action feels seamless throughout the key press, allowing for rapid typing without any tactile interruptions. On the other hand, the WS Dash switches are also known for their silky smooth keystroke, benefiting from their hall effect technology. This smoothing effect might lend a slightly different tactile sensation compared to the Tomcat, but both switches are designed to offer a fluid and enjoyable typing experience. While the Tomcat may lean toward a more subdued feel, the WS Dash can offer the same smoothness with its unique active mechanism.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Tomcat and Wuque Studio WS Dash switches cater to typists looking for an enjoyable auditory and tactile experience, albeit with distinctive sound profiles and feel. The Tomcat offers a deep resonant sound with a super smooth feel, while the WS Dash combines a bright, clacky sound with an equally smooth keystroke. Despite their differences in sound character, users can anticipate a satisfying typing experience from either switch, and ultimately, the choice may come down to personal preference in sound profile and brand appeal.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch that emphasizes a super smooth typing experience with a resonant sound profile, the Tomcat is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 54 grams makes it a suitable option for extended typing sessions, as it requires little effort and allows for fast typing speeds. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more unique auditory experience coupled with a silky smooth keystroke, the WS Dash might be the way to go. Its bright and clacky sound signature can be particularly appealing if you appreciate a switch that provides a lively feedback. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, it still offers a medium-light feel, which feels comfortable for most users. Ultimately, if you value smoothness and a resonant sound, go for the Tomcat, but if you seek a refined auditory experience with a touch of flair, the WS Dash is your best bet. Selecting the right switch will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience based on your personal typing habits and sound preferences, so consider testing both to find which resonates with you the most.
Mentioned in this article
