Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Cheese present two compelling yet distinct options for enthusiasts seeking to enhance their typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth action and a bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a seamless, quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switches are known for their unparalleled smoothness coupled with a distinctive clacky and poppy sound that provides a satisfying auditory feedback, making them stand out as ultra-light switches crafted for those who enjoy a more dynamic feel while typing. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you're after a soft, smooth keystroke or a crisp, engaging feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that perfectly fits your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Cheese switch, notable distinctions in the top housing components emerge. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing that is characterized by its ability to produce a unique and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted end of the spectrum. In contrast, the HMX Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic choice among switch designs, which is known to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile as well. Both materials possess sound-dampening qualities, but the POM top has a more distinctive sound due to its harder composition, resulting in a sound profile that differs from the softer, more rounded tones provided by the nylon.
Examining the bottom housing reveals more similarities than differences between the two switches. Both the Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Cheese employ nylon for their bottom housings, which is indicative of a commitment to achieving a fuller sound experience. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder auditory output when typing. This alignment in material choice means that both switches will likely provide a satisfying typing experience where the softness of the nylon allows for a comforting feel while typing, adding to the overall acoustic profile.
However, because the top and bottom housings in the Bumblebee Linear and HMX Cheese are made from different materials for the upper sections, the overall sound and feel will be split between the two. In the case of the Bumblebee Linear, its unique POM top housing contributes significantly to the release sound when a key is let go, while the nylon bottom is more influential in determining the bottom-out feel and sound. Conversely, the HMX Cheese, with its uniform nylon upper and lower housings, will likely produce a more consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke. Ultimately, while the switches differ in their top materials and subsequently their auditory feedback, both aim for a rich sound experience driven by the soft nylon-based bottom housing, promising satisfying results in their respective typing feels.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, both are relatively light options, catering well to users who prefer a softer typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cheese switch features a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. This means that the HMX Cheese is the lighter option overall in both actuation and bottom out forces. While the differences are minimal, users who appreciate a lighter touch may find the Cheese switch slightly more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a bit more resistance, the Bumblebee Linear offers a marginally heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a light touch, allowing for similar typing dynamics but with subtle differences in feedback and resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, the Bumblebee measures 3.6 mm, while the Cheese is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This indicates that if you are seeking a more responsive feel during key presses, the HMX Cheese might be preferable due to its shorter travel distance. In contrast, the Bsun Bumblebee, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more pronounced tactile experience, which could be favored by those who appreciate a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preferences for responsiveness versus depth; the Bumblebee provides a more substantial feel, while the Cheese caters to those who favor quicker actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch offers a bright sound profile that contributes to an engaging auditory experience while typing. Though it is primarily characterized by its linear operation, this design allows it to produce less distinct audible feedback than tactile or clicky switches, making it a quieter option overall. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch boasts a clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which gives it a more vibrant auditory presence. The Cheese’s lighter actuation also contributes to its lively sound, making each keystroke feel more pronounced. It's important to note that sound can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and other components in your setup.
When considering feel, both switches excel in providing a smooth typing experience, though their characteristics diverge. The Bumblebee Linear excels with its exceptionally smooth and consistent keystrokes, enabling a seamless flow during typing or gaming without any tactile interruptions. In contrast, the HMX Cheese switches, while also offering unparalleled smoothness, are specifically designed to feel ultra-light, appealing to those who favor responsive and effortless actuation. The combination of lightness and smoothness in the Cheese switches can lead to a distinctive and enjoyable sensation while typing or gaming, setting them apart in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Cheese linear switches cater to enthusiasts seeking smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, though they differ in sound and feel. The Bumblebee offers a bright sound profile paired with silky keystrokes, making it ideal for those who desire a quieter yet engaging experience. The HMX Cheese, conversely, provides a lively audio presence with its clacky sound and ultra-light feel, perfect for those seeking responsive feedback. Overall, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences in sound and tactile sensation, but either option promises satisfying performance for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch should ultimately depend on your personal preferences regarding feel, sound, and typing experience. If you prioritize a light actuation force paired with a smooth and bright typing experience, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice. Its slightly higher bottoming out force of 50 grams offers a comfortable typing feel for long sessions, especially if you enjoy a cleaner sound profile without too much distraction. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something even lighter, the Cheese switch, with its 46 grams of bottoming out force, is perfect for those who love a satisfying, clacky, and poppy sound accentuated by a pristine feel. Its ultra-smooth action and crisp sound signature make it ideal for users who appreciate tactile feedback and an engaging auditory experience while typing or gaming. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the auditory atmosphere you want to create, and choose the switch that resonates most with your preferences.
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