Durock Black Lotus vs. Bsun Bumblebee Linear

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear stand out as notable options, each catering to different preferences in the typing experience. The Black Lotus is celebrated for its silky smooth feel and precision, boasting a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. With reduced housing and stem wobble, it ensures an enjoyable typing experience, and the unique light column allows for customizable in-switch lighting. In contrast, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear offers a similarly smooth typing experience but distinguishes itself with a bright sound profile that adds an engaging auditory element to each keystroke. While both switches are linear, appealing to those who prefer a quieter operation without tactile feedback, they each present unique features that may sway your decision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switches, notable differences and similarities arise. The Black Lotus features a top housing made from a modified PC and UPE blend, which contributes to a unique and premium feel. This blend allows for smooth typing while potentially enhancing the switch's overall acoustics. In contrast, the Bumblebee Linear utilizes a POM top housing, known for producing a deeper sound profile that is relatively muted. While the Black Lotus offers a more vibrant tactile feedback due to its premium blend, the Bumblebee's POM top maintains the smoothness expected from a high-quality switch while prioritizing a distinct sound character.

Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which is a classic choice that ensures a deeper, fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer composition helps absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, allowing both switches to produce a rounder and more subdued auditory experience when bottoming out. This shared bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar acoustic performance in terms of how each switch feels when keys are pressed down, regardless of the differences in their top housings. This combination guarantees a cohesive sound and feel, emphasizing the shadowed lower tones that nylon naturally promotes.

In effect, the differing top housing materials lend unique characteristics to each switch while the nylon bottom housing acts as a stabilizer for sound and tactile feedback. The modified PC and UPE blend in the Black Lotus provides an engaging typing experience characterized by a premium feel, while the POM top of the Bumblebee Linear prioritizes an acoustic profile that is distinctly muted and pleasant. Therefore, while both switches can yield a comparable sound experience due to the nylon bottom housing, the contrasts between the top materials lead to different user experiences, making each switch appealing for varied preferences.

Weight

The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Black Lotus features a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Bumblebee Linear has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to actuate. Consequently, the Black Lotus is the heavier option, providing a stronger push feel, while the Bumblebee Linear is lighter, which can alleviate finger fatigue during prolonged use. If users prioritize a lighter switch for ease and comfort, they'll find the Bumblebee Linear fitting, whereas those who enjoy a more tactile response might gravitate towards the heavier Black Lotus. Ultimately, these differences can significantly affect typing preferences and performance.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch, we see a clear distinction. The Black Lotus has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with traditional standards and offers a deeper feel while typing. In contrast, the Bumblebee Linear switch boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who prefer quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers. This difference of 0.4 mm indicates that the Black Lotus provides a more pronounced tactile experience, while the Bumblebee Linear allows for more rapid keypresses. Therefore, users who enjoy a hearty depth in their keystrokes might opt for the longer travel of the Black Lotus, whereas those seeking a more responsive and agile feel may choose the Bumblebee Linear for its shorter travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Black Lotus switch lacks a specific description, which leaves its acoustic properties somewhat ambiguous. However, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear, on the other hand, is characterized by a bright sound profile. This distinction suggests that while the Bumblebee Linear has a more pronounced and potentially lively sound when typing, the Black Lotus might be quieter or more neutral in comparison, although we can't know for certain without specifications.

When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus switches are renowned for their silky, buttery, mild, and polished attributes, creating a beautifully smooth typing experience that minimizes any resistance during keystrokes. The combination of these qualities promotes a refined and enjoyable interaction with the keyboard, making typing feel effortless and fluid. The specifics on the Bumblebee Linear's feel are unknown, but given that it's a linear switch, it would be reasonable to anticipate a smooth actuation, though the exact characteristics may vary.

Overall, both switches intend to deliver a satisfying typing experience, though they diverge in their auditory presence. The Durock Black Lotus is designed for a precise and smooth keystroke with an emphasis on minimal wobble, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a polished and refined typing feel. Meanwhile, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear offers a brighter acoustic environment, which might appeal to users who enjoy a bit more character in their keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between these two would come down to whether one prefers a more subdued sound with the silky feel of the Black Lotus or the bright auditory feedback paired with the unknown feel of the Bumblebee Linear.

Conclusion

To summarize, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus and the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switches, you should consider both your typing style and preference for switch feel and feedback. If you enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force and desire a switch that offers silky smoothness, buttery sound, and minimal wobble, the Black Lotus would be the ideal choice for you. Its polished finish and unique light column also add an aesthetic and functional touch that enhances your overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch that allows for fast, effortless keystrokes and a bright sound profile, then the Bumblebee Linear should be your go-to option. It is particularly well-suited for those who prioritize speed and a smooth typing experience without the resistance of a heavier switch. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you lean toward a more nuanced, precise feel with the Black Lotus or the nimble, quick response of the Bumblebee Linear.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more