HMX 1989 vs. Bsun Bumblebee Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear stand out as two compelling options, both offering distinct characteristics while falling within the linear switch category. The HMX 1989, famously associated with The Game 1989 Classic, is celebrated for its deep and thocky sound profile, making it a favorite among gamers who appreciate a resonant auditory feedback during intense sessions. Its robust construction and pronounced feel provide a unique typing experience that can enhance both gameplay and typing for those who enjoy tactile response. On the other hand, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch dazzles users with its exceptionally smooth keystrokes and a bright sound profile, appealing to typists who prefer a quieter yet responsive experience. Both switches cater to different preferences; the HMX 1989 leans towards a bold auditory presence while the Bumblebee offers a more subtle, streamlined experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switches showcase distinct characteristics in their housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles. The 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucence, which contributes to a crisper and more resonant sound. This material enhances clarity, particularly when RGB lighting is utilized, as its transparency allows light to diffuse beautifully. In contrast, the Bumblebee Linear is equipped with a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While POM is also a type of plastic, its properties create a softer impact upon keypress, resulting in a different auditory experience that leans towards warmth rather than sharpness. Thus, while both switches may provide appealing sound profiles, they offer differing qualities—one resonates vividly, while the other envelops in warmth.
Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, a shared characteristic that aligns their sound attributes. Nylon is renowned for its softer nature, which absorbs sound and delivers a fuller, deeper tonal quality during keypresses. This inherent characteristic means that both the HMX 1989 and the Bumblebee Linear will produce a similar sound experience when the key is fully depressed, showcasing the depth and roundness that nylon allows. The two switches highlight how the softer nylon material can create an enjoyable typing experience, bridging the auditory gap caused by the differing top housing materials. So, while the Bumblebee Linear's deeper sound profile is produced by its POM top housing, the nylon bottom still ensures a familiar fullness echoed across both switches.
The interactive effect of combining different materials also plays a critical role in the overall performance of the switches. In the HMX 1989, the crispness of the polycarbonate top must be considered along with the depth of the nylon bottom, resulting in a sound that is well balanced, with pronounced clarity on release. Conversely, the Bumblebee Linear's POM top housing softens the transition from keypress to release, contributing to a more understated sound overall. While the top and bottom materials differ in how they influence the auditory experience, their combination ensures that both switches ultimately deliver an engaging typing experience. Thus, enthusiasts and typists may find value in either model depending on their sound profile preferences, while also recognizing the similar foundations laid by the shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch, we find some key similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive when it comes to triggering a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly; the HMX 1989 has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Bumblebee Linear measures at 50 grams. This means that the Bumblebee switch offers a lighter feel overall, which may appeal to users who prefer prolonged typing sessions or lighter key presses. In contrast, the HMX 1989, with its heavier bottom out force, provides a more substantial typing experience that some users might find preferable for added tactile feedback. Therefore, while both switches are equally light in terms of actuation, the 1989 offers a slightly heavier bottom out, making it feel more robust compared to the Bumblebee Linear.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch, it is clear that the HMX 1989 offers a longer distance at 4 mm, while the Bumblebee Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This 0.4 mm difference might be significant for users who favor specific tactile feedback during typing or gaming. The HMX 1989, with its longer travel distance, is likely to provide a more traditional and hearty feel, which some users might prefer for an immersive typing experience. Conversely, the Bumblebee Linear's 3.6 mm travel distance aligns with modern trends favoring shorter distances, offering quicker actuation that could benefit gamers seeking rapid response times. Thus, if you favor a smoother deep stroke, the HMX 1989 would be your ideal choice, while those who prefer snappier feedback may find the Bumblebee Linear switch more appealing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear 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 HMX 1989 linear switch stands out for its deep and thocky sound profile, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback while typing. This characteristic lends a satisfying auditory experience that can make the act of typing feel more engaging. In contrast, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is recognized for its exceptionally bright sound profile, which contrasts with the deeper tones of the 1989. Like the 1989, the Bumblebee's sound can also be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycap design, but its brightness adds a more high-pitched and airy quality to each keystroke.
Regarding the feel, the HMX 1989 switch is known for delivering a smooth typing experience, contributing to a sense of fluidity with each keypress. This aspect is further enhanced by its thocky sound, which complements the tactile feedback of the switch. The Bumblebee Linear switch, on the other hand, also promises a remarkably smooth typing journey, ensuring that key presses glide seamlessly without any resistance. While both switches offer a pleasurable typing experience, their differences in auditory feedback lead to distinct sensations, particularly in how each switch communicates its performance through sound.
In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a switch that provides a richer sound with a thocky depth, the 1989 may be your best bet. However, if you prefer a brighter auditory experience while still enjoying a smooth feel, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent option. Ultimately, you can expect a gratifying typing experience from either choice, though their distinct sound profiles will influence how you perceive each switch's overall character.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a medium-light actuation force with a deeper, thocky sound and feel, the HMX 1989 switch might be your best bet. It excels in providing a satisfying tactile feedback, making it a great option for gaming sessions or heavy typists who appreciate a pronounced and solid typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and an exceptionally smooth keystroke combined with a brighter sound profile, then the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch would suit you better. This switch is ideally suited for those who enjoy a quieter, more streamlined typing experience, allowing for rapid key presses without as much force. Ultimately, consider your typing style and sound preferences when selecting between these two switches, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience meets your specific needs.
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