Bsun Tomcat vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Bsun Tomcat and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the smoothness of linear switches and the engaging feedback of tactile switches. The Bsun Tomcat, a linear switch, is celebrated for its super smooth typing experience, attributed to its Ly stems, which create a seamless keystroke without any noticeable bump. This makes the Tomcat an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a robust tactile experience characterized by a 70g bump, providing immersive resistance and a satisfying "thocky" sound produced by its nylon housing. This tactile feedback can enhance typing engagement and satisfaction, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced response to their keystrokes. Both switches offer distinct advantages—whether you're looking for a smooth, uninterrupted action or a rich, tactile sensation—but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Tomcat and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, we can see distinct differences in the properties and sound profiles that each material contributes. The Tomcat features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of each keystroke. This translucency also proves advantageous for RGB lighting, as polycarbonate allows light to pass through effectively, creating visually engaging effects when the keys are lit. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile employs nylon for its top housing, a material known for its softer feel and ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This disparity in materials implies that while both switches are designed for tactile feedback, they deliver different auditory experiences.
However, both the Bsun Tomcat and the WS Heavy Tactile share the same nylon material for their bottom housings, which influences the overall typing experience when the keys bottom out. The use of nylon in both models contributes to a consistent, duller, and rounder sound when keys are pressed down, emphasizing a softer bottom-out experience regardless of the switch's top housing. This commonality in bottom housing provides a baseline for assertive feedback, as both switches will feel similar when fully engaged, ensuring users feel a unified typing experience in this regard. Thus, while the top housing of each switch may reflect contrasting acoustic properties, the sonic signature of the bottom housing creates a shared characteristic.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings of the Bsun Tomcat and the WS Heavy Tactile leads to unique sound profiles and tactile sensations during use. Users who appreciate the sharpness and clarity offered by the polycarbonate top of the Tomcat may lean towards that model for RGB aesthetics and a more pronounced sound when releasing keys. Conversely, those who prefer a deeper, fuller sound with a more muted top profile may gravitate towards the WS Heavy Tactile for its comforting tonal qualities. Despite these differences, the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a level of cohesion in sound and feel at the point of keypress, effectively bridging the gap between their contrasting top materials.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, their actuation forces are identical at 45 grams, meaning they both require the same amount of force to register a keystroke. This similarity suggests that users looking for a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions will find both options suitable in that regard. However, the bottom out forces diverge significantly; the Tomcat has a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile features a much higher bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This indicates that while both switches feel similarly light upon actuation, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a more substantial resistance when pressed all the way down. Therefore, typists or gamers seeking a lighter overall experience should lean towards the Bsun Tomcat, while those who prefer a more robust and heavier tactile feedback should opt for the WS Heavy Tactile.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance between the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, the Tomcat has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile measures at 3.2 mm. This means that the Tomcat offers a longer travel distance, which some users may find preferable for a more pronounced keypress feel. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile, with its shorter distance, caters to those seeking quicker response times, making it potentially more appealing for gaming or rapid typing. While both switches serve different preferences, if you're looking for a switch that provides a more substantial depth and tactile feedback, the Tomcat would be the better choice, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile is ideal for those who favor a snappier action.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch produces a resonant sound profile that enhances the typing experience, delivering a clean tonal quality that can be further influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used. The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, on the other hand, is characterized by a captivating “thocky” sound, which is described as clacky, high-pitched, and sharp, creating an engaging auditory environment. This contrasts nicely with the Tomcat's smoother sound, giving each switch its unique character while also demonstrating that sound preferences can vary significantly based on user choice.
When it comes to feel, the Tomcat linear switch is renowned for its super smooth typing experience thanks to its Ly stem design, allowing for seamless key presses that lack any noticeable tactile bump. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile switch excels in providing a pronounced tactile feedback felt during typing. With descriptors such as "accents," "bouncy," and "snappy," the WS Heavy Tactile emphasizes a more dynamic, responsive feel, making each keypress an invigorating experience. Users seeking a tactile sensation will find the WS Heavy Tactile’s design particularly rewarding, while those who prefer a smoother, uninterrupted action will enjoy the Tomcat linear switch.
Ultimately, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch cater to different typing preferences that influence both sound and feel. While the Tomcat offers a sleek and resonant auditory experience along with a smooth feel, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a more tactile, engaging response paired with a sharper sound. Each switch has its own merits, appealing to distinct user needs, ensuring there’s a suitable option for everyone in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a smooth keystroke with a medium-light bottom out force of 54 grams, the Tomcat is likely the better choice for you. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a fluid typing experience with less resistance, making it an ideal option for extended typing sessions or gaming where speed is critical. The Tomcat's resonant sound profile also adds to the overall experience, creating a unique acoustic ambiance during use. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and engaging typing experience with a heavier actuation force of 70 grams, the WS Heavy Tactile will likely suit you better. Its pronounced tactile bump and satisfying "thocky" sound enhance the feedback of each keystroke, which can make typing more enjoyable and immersive. This switch is particularly beneficial for those who relish the sensation of tactile feedback while typing or for people whose work requires deliberate precision. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.