Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 28g

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two compelling options are the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g, both of which fall into the category of linear switches. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, providing a satisfying feedback that many typists and gamers crave. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 28g not only offers a bright sound profile but also features an incredibly light actuation force, making it an especially responsive choice for those who prioritize speed and agility while typing. While both switches promise a delightful experience, they cater to slightly different preferences: the Bumblebee ow performs beautifully for all-around typing, while the Chiikawa excels when rapid input is desired. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

Bsun Chiikawa - 28g Linear

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g, one observes a distinct contrast in the composition of the top housings. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is renowned for producing a deep and muted sound profile. This unique sound quality is primarily due to POM’s inherent material properties, offering a pleasing auditory experience without excessive resonance. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 28g utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material and is known for its ability to generate a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This fundamental difference emphasizes that while both switches can provide a pleasing typing experience, the Bumblebee Linear leans towards a more subdued auditory signature, whereas the Chiikawa - 28g boasts a more pronounced and lively sound.

Examining the bottom housings, both the Bumblebee Linear and the Chiikawa - 28g utilize nylon, a classic choice in switch design that promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound when typing. This commonality in bottom housing between the two switches means that regardless of the top housing differences, both switches will retain a similar sound quality during the keypress due to the shared nylon characteristic. Consequently, the typist can expect a consistent and full-bodied bottom-out sound and feel across both models.

Overall, the contrasting materials of the top housings highlight how their individual acoustic properties will influence the overall sound profile of each switch. While the Bumblebee Linear's POM top provides a deeper tone and the Chiikawa - 28g's polycarbonate promotes a crisper sound, the use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a unifying element between the two switches. When users press down on either switch, they will experience a consistent, full sound courtesy of the nylon bottom, while the differing top housings will influence the sound emitted upon releasing the key. This synergy between the top and bottom housings illustrates how the materials work together to create a unique typing experience for each switch type.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The Bumblebee Linear has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making it a heavier switch compared to the Chiikawa - 28g, which features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom-out force of 34 grams. This difference means that the Bumblebee is better suited for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the lighter Chiikawa switch offers a gentler feel, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. As a result, those seeking a lighter typing experience would gravitate towards the Chiikawa - 28g, whereas those favoring a stronger push should consider the Bumblebee Linear switch.

Travel distance

Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that when pressing down on the keys, users will experience the same amount of key travel with either switch. This similarity in travel distance suggests that both switches will provide comparable tactile feedback and responsiveness during use, allowing for a consistent typing experience. Since they have the same measurement, users can expect similar performance in terms of key engagement and actuation, ensuring that the choice between the two switches can be based on other factors like feel or design rather than travel distance alone.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switches feature bright sound profiles, indicating that they both produce a similar, high-pitched auditory experience when typing. The Bumblebee Linear is noted for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, which complements its bright sound, while the Chiikawa - 28g is characterized by its crisp and responsive sound due to its very light actuation force. Overall, users can expect a lively and engaging auditory feedback from both switches, though individual preferences in sound may vary based on keycap and board choices.

When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, which offers minimal resistance throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 28g is designed with a very light actuation force, making it notably responsive and likely providing a feeling of quick engagement. While both switches are linear and lack tactile feedback, the weight and responsiveness may create slightly differing sensations during typing, with the Bumblebee Linear offering a fluid glide and the Chiikawa switch presenting a more effortless keystroke.

In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switches excel in their own rights, particularly with their bright sound profiles, making them appealing options for those seeking auditory feedback. The Bumblebee Linear's smoothness is a strong point, while the light actuation of the Chiikawa plug enhances its responsiveness. Ultimately, while each switch provides a distinctive experience, users will enjoy smooth and lively typing from both, immersing them in a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a smooth typing experience with a slightly heavier feel, the Bumblebee Linear, with its bottom-out force of 50 grams, would be an excellent choice. Its bright sound profile adds an interesting auditory dimension to your keystrokes, making it suitable for both typing and gaming scenarios where precision matters. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and are looking for something highly responsive, the Chiikawa - 28g is commendable with its low actuation force of 34 grams. This switch is perfect for those who value a quick response, as well as a crisp, high-pitched sound that adds a unique character to your keyboard. In essence, consider opting for the Bumblebee Linear for a more robust feel and smooth experience, whereas the Chiikawa - 28g is ideal if you want something that combines light actuation with a bright auditory feedback. Your ultimate choice should align with your comfort, typing habits, and the overall experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Chiikawa - 28g Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more