KTT Ash Gray vs. Bsun Bumblebee Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Ash Gray and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch, a tactile option, is recognized for its well-balanced tactile response—providing just enough feedback without being overwhelming, which makes it ideal for users who appreciate a bit of reassurance with each keystroke. Its easy-to-press design ensures that typing feels effortless, making it a great choice for both casual typists and gamers. On the other hand, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its ultra-smooth actuation and bright sound profile, catering to those who favor a seamless typing experience devoid of tactile bumps. With a linear switch, users can enjoy swift, uninterrupted keystrokes—perfect for rapid gaming sessions or prolonged typing without the distraction of tactile feedback. Both switches have their merits, appealing to diverse typing styles and preferences; 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear, one can observe distinct differences in their top housings, which influence their sound profiles significantly. The Ash Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is both crisp and clear. This characteristic is attributed to polycarbonate’s stiffer nature, allowing for enhanced resonance and clarity. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suited for RGB lighting, making it aesthetically pleasing as well. In contrast, the Bumblebee Linear is equipped with a POM top housing, which produces a deeper, more muted sound. The unique properties of POM contribute to a less resonant profile, offering a smoother auditory experience that some users may prefer, especially those who favor a heavier sound.
Both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, which introduces a uniform element to their overall auditory and tactile experience. Nylon is a well-established material in switch housings, recognized for its ability to create a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound effectively. With both the Ash Gray and the Bumblebee Linear utilizing nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect a similar foundation of sound and feel. This shared characteristic ensures that both switches deliver a rounded and mellow auditory experience on the bottom-out, enhancing user satisfaction through consistency.
When it comes to the combined effects of their materials, the variations between the top housings of the Ash Gray and Bumblebee Linear will dictate how they ultimately feel during use. The polycarbonate top may lend a more articulate sound during key releases, while the POM top will produce a warmer, muffled finish. However, both will harmonize well with the nylon bottom housing’s contributions, creating a well-rounded experience regardless of the differences presented in the top materials. Users looking for specific auditory characteristics will likely find these contrasts in sound profiles enjoyable, while still benefiting from the depth and fullness provided by the nylon bottoms in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces are evident. The Ash Gray switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light overall. In contrast, the Bumblebee Linear switch features a higher actuation force of 45 grams but a slightly lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that while both switches have unique feel characteristics, the Ash Gray switch offers a lighter actuation, allowing for potentially easier typing over extended periods. Conversely, the Bumblebee Linear, with its heavier actuation force, may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, for those preferring a lighter touch, the KTT Ash Gray is the superior choice, but for individuals who enjoy a firmer press, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear may be more appealing.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Ash Gray switch slightly shorter than its Bumblebee counterpart, with a difference of 0.1 mm. For users who prioritize responsiveness, the Ash Gray may be the preferred choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker keypresses. In contrast, the Bumblebee Linear offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some may find more satisfying for a complete press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding the feel and responsiveness of key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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
When considering the sound characteristics of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch, it presents a neutral profile. This means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a balanced sound that makes it suitable across various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. The sound profile is neither overly loud nor too quiet, making it versatile for different users, be they beginners or experienced typists. In contrast, the auditory qualities of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch are not specifically described, leaving its sound performance an unknown factor. However, it is known that linear switches often lean towards a smoother sound profile. Therefore, if you're looking for a distinctly quiet experience, the Bumblebee may deliver a more subdued sound, but without specific details, a direct comparison in this category cannot be made.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press sensation, which requires minimal force for activation, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. This aspect significantly reduces finger fatigue, as users can enjoy a gentle typing experience thanks to the mild tactile feedback it provides. The Ash Gray's tactile response strikes a balance, avoiding overwhelming feedback while still being noticeable. On the other hand, the Bumblebee Linear, lacking detailed descriptions, suggests that it likely offers a smoother typing experience. Generally, linear switches are known for their consistent push throughout the keystroke, lacking tactile bumps, which can create an entirely different typing sensation. However, without specifics, one can only speculate on the precise feel and feedback the Bumblebee switch provides.
In summary, while the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch delivers a nuanced auditory and tactile experience suitable for a variety of users, the specifics of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch’s sound and feel remain unclear. The Ash Gray is recognized for its balanced sound profile and easy-to-press feel, making it a great all-around choice for typing comfort. Meanwhile, the Bumblebee’s characteristics remain largely unspecified; thus, users may need to experiment to fully appreciate its unique qualities. For those focused on tactile feedback and moderate sound, the Ash Gray is an excellent option, while the Bumblebee is a compelling choice for those who prefer a seamless linear experience, even if specifics are still to be discovered.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you find joy in tactile feedback and appreciate a switch that delivers a satisfying yet unobtrusive response while typing, the Ash Gray is likely the better fit for you. It offers a light touch and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for both home and office environments. The easy-to-press feel is designed to minimize finger fatigue, making the KTT Ash Gray an excellent choice for long typing sessions where comfort and a pleasing tactile feel are essential.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience and enjoy a bright sound profile, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch might be more aligned with your preferences. With a slightly lighter bottom-out force, this linear switch provides a very fluid stroke that can be particularly enjoyable for gaming or quick typing tasks where speed is paramount. In situations where minimal resistance is desired, the Bumblebee's smooth action allows for rapid key presses without the distraction of tactile bumps or noise. In summary, your choice should reflect whether you value tactile feedback and moderate resistance or if you lean towards a seamless, linear experience.
Mentioned in this article
