Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Bsun Cliff
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Cliff switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Cliff present distinct options tailored to different typing preferences. The Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it a favored choice for gamers and typists who prioritize fluid keystrokes; coupled with its bright sound profile, it effortlessly glides from key to key without the interruption of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility, providing users with a gratifying sensation upon each keystroke along with a crisp sound signature that enhances the typing experience without overwhelming distractions. While the Bumblebee excels in speed and smoothness, the Cliff appeals to those who appreciate feedback and a more traditional typing feel. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Bsun Cliff switches present an intriguing comparison, particularly regarding their housing materials. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, known for producing a uniquely deep and relatively muted sound signature. This sound quality, a result of POM’s softer nature compared to other plastics, creates an experience that is pleasing and distinct for users who prefer a smoother auditory feedback when typing. Conversely, the Cliff's use of polycarbonate for its top housing offers a sharper, crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a more resonant and clear sound, appealing to those who favor a brighter acoustic experience. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, thus offering a different visual and auditory interplay for users who prioritize lighting features in their setups.
When we shift our focus to the bottom housing of the two switches, both the Bumblebee Linear and the Cliff utilize nylon material. This choice is significant as nylon is a traditional and well-regarded option in the mechanical keyboard community. It is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, due to its soft plastic composition that absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory feel. As such, both switches share this characteristic, leading to a similar bottom-out experience for typists, regardless of their differing top housing materials. This commonality in bottom housing underscores how important nylon is in influencing the overall typing experience by providing a consistent sound and tactile feedback.
When combined, the differing top housing materials of the Bumblebee Linear and the Cliff create a unique sensory experience that reflects the characteristics of both types. The Bumblebee Linear’s deeper sounds from the POM top housing work in unison with the fuller deeper tones from the nylon bottom, making for a balanced auditory output. Meanwhile, the Cliff’s sharper polycarbonate top contrasts with the rounded sound from its nylon bottom, leading to a more dynamic auditory experience. Ultimately, while their sound profiles differ, the nylon bottom housing unites both switches in terms of the overall deeper acoustics, providing a shared characteristic that contributes to the well-roundedness of the typing experience in both cases.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch both feature light forces, but they differ in their specifications. The Bumblebee Linear has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Cliff, which has an actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. As a result, the Cliff offers a lighter feel, which can be preferable for users seeking longer typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue. Conversely, the Bumblebee's heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more robust tactile experience, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Overall, if you prioritize lightweight switches for comfort and speed, the Cliff would be a better choice, while the Bumblebee is suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that they offer the same amount of movement when pressed. This similarity in travel distance allows for consistent tactile feedback and actuation experience across both switches, ensuring that users can expect comparable results regardless of which switch they choose. Since the travel distances are equal, users can anticipate a similar feel and performance when typing or gaming, making either switch a viable option depending on personal preference for linear versus tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 is noted for its bright sound profile, which adds a certain vivacity to typing. This switch offers a smooth recording with a pleasant auditory experience as keys are pressed. On the other hand, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is characterized by a crisp sound signature, which provides a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. This difference suggests that while both switches can produce enjoyable sounds, the Bumblebee Linear leans towards a brighter tone, whereas the Cliff delivers a sharper, crisper sound.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for a seamless keyboard action without any interruption. In contrast, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch features a medium level of tactility, giving users a discernible bump that provides valuable feedback during each keystroke. This means that while both switches offer satisfying experiences, those who prefer an ultra-smooth ride will likely favor the Bumblebee Linear, while users who seek tactile feedback might gravitate towards the Cliff.
Considering the overall qualities of both switches, it's clear that the Bumblebee Linear and the Cliff offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Bumblebee Linear excels in delivering smoothness and a bright sound, ideal for those who prioritize a fluid typing experience, while the Cliff offers a tactile bump with a crisp auditory feedback, perfect for users who enjoy a more engaging typing sensation. Knowing these aspects can help newcomers make informed decisions based on their personal typing styles and acoustic preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience with a light actuation force and appreciate a brighter sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice for you. It's particularly well-suited for fast-paced typing or gaming, where a seamless keystroke can enhance your performance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback that gives you a clear indication of actuation while maintaining a light touch, the Cliff tactile switch will serve you well. Its medium tactility and crisp sound signature provide a satisfying experience for those who enjoy a bit more engagement with each keystroke, making it ideal for typists who appreciate the tactile sensation in their writing or coding activities. Ultimately, your decision should align with how you feel about the feedback and sound you desire from your keyboard.
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