Bsun Tomcat vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Bsun Tomcat and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference and typing experience are paramount, and two popular linear options, the Bsun Tomcat and Wuque Studio WS Pearl, each offer distinct features to enhance your typing journey. The Tomcat switches are celebrated for their Ly stems, which provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience coupled with a resonant sound profile that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the WS Pearl switches stand out due to their innovative use of ball-bearings, effectively reducing friction during keystrokes for a sensation that many describe as surreally smooth. With a medium-high pitched sound signature, the WS Pearl appeals to users who enjoy a crisp auditory feedback while typing. Both switches cater to the needs of different typists; the Tomcat may be ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional switch feel with a pronounced sound profile, while the WS Pearl is perfect for users seeking a uniquely fluid and quiet typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that meets your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Tomcat and Wuque Studio WS Pearl both exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials, which contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Tomcat's top housing is made of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that enhances its acoustic properties to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate not only allows for vibrant RGB lighting but also adds to the overall aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the WS Pearl utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. Nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to a rounder acoustic experience, creating a contrast to the clarity offered by polycarbonate in the Tomcat.
When considering the bottom housings of both switches, the Bsun Tomcat and the WS Pearl use nylon, which aligns their sound profiles in this specific aspect. The nylon bottom housing in both switches is designed to absorb sound and create a deeper auditory experience, resulting in a duller and rounder sound rather than a sharp pinging noise. Since both switches share the nylon material for the bottom housing, typists can expect similar nuances in the bottom-out sound and feel, regardless of the differences presented in the top housings. This consistent bottom housing material contributes to a more uniform typing experience across both switches.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the Tomcat and WS Pearl lead to a hybrid sound profile for each switch. While the Tomcat delivers a crisper sound through its polycarbonate top housing, it combines with the deeper tones from its nylon bottom housing. On the other side, the WS Pearl achieves a more cohesive and melodious sound profile, mainly informed by the softer nylon materials. Thus, users who gravitate toward either the sharper clarity of the Tomcat or the fuller depth of the WS Pearl will appreciate how the materials influence their overall typing experience. Despite their differences, the shared nylon bottom housing creates a bridge that allows for some commonalities in performance, regardless of individual housing characteristics.
Weight
The Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch exhibit differing characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Tomcat has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a medium-light option, while the WS Pearl features a notably lighter actuation force of just 30 grams, which may appeal to users seeking a less strenuous typing experience. When it comes to bottom out forces, the Tomcat's is measured at 54 grams, whereas the WS Pearl has a slightly higher bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that while the Tomcat offers a more balanced actuation and bottom out experience, the WS Pearl’s lighter actuation can provide a quicker response but requires a stronger push when bottoming out. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may favor the WS Pearl, while users who like a more substantial feel could find the Tomcat to be a better fit, especially with its comparatively lower bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, it is clear that the Tomcat offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Pearl's 3.5 mm. While both switches are relatively close in design, with both being shorter than traditional 4.0 mm switches, the Tomcat's additional 0.1 mm may provide a more substantial feel for those who appreciate a deeper key press. Gamers, on the other hand, might lean towards the WS Pearl for its marginally shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times while typing or gaming. Ultimately, if you prefer the more robust sensation of a deeper press, the Tomcat would be the better choice; conversely, if you seek rapid actuation, the Pearl caters to that preference with its slightly shorter travel.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00.
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, which can contribute to a more immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch showcases a medium-high pitched sound signature that can provide a distinctive auditory feedback during use. While both switches are linear and, therefore, generally quieter than tactile or clicky alternatives, users can expect different sound characteristics that can be influenced further by the choice of keyboard, case material, and keycap profile.
When it comes to feel, the Tomcat switches are recognized for their Ly stems, designed to deliver a notably smooth typing experience, making each keystroke feel effortless. In contrast, the WS Pearl switches incorporate ball-bearings that significantly reduce friction during keystrokes, resulting in a feel that is described as surreally smooth. Both switches aim to offer an exceptionally fluid tactile experience, though the methods they employ to achieve this smoothness differ, with the Tomcat relying on its stem design and the WS Pearl utilizing ball-bearing technology.
Combining these attributes, the Bsun Tomcat and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches present users with unique yet enjoyable experiences. While the Tomcat is characterized by its resonant sound and Ly stems for a smooth typing experience, the WS Pearl stands out with its medium-high pitch sound and ball-bearing design that provides exceptional friction reduction. Both switches cater to individuals who are looking for a smooth linear feel, albeit via different mechanisms, leading to unique auditory and tactile experiences that greatly enhance the overall typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Bsun Tomcat linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a medium-light force with a focus on a smooth typing experience, the Tomcat may be the better choice for you; its Ly stems provide a fluid keystroke and a resonant sound profile that enhances the typing experience. This switch can be particularly appealing for those who appreciate a softer touch and prioritize the sensation of glide during use. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance with a bottom-out force that is slightly heavier at 58 grams, the WS Pearl may suit your needs better. Its unique ball-bearing mechanism significantly reduces friction, delivering a feel that is exceptionally smooth and pleasant. Coupled with its medium-high pitched sound signature, the WS Pearl offers a distinct auditory and tactile experience that might appeal to you if you’re after a more pronounced keystroke feedback. In conclusion, consider your strength preferences and the kind of tactile sensations you desire; both switches offer impressive characteristics that cater to different typing styles.
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