Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference, and two notable contenders, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, offer unique attributes to consider. The Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a seamless keystroke without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g boasts a clacky sound profile that appeals to enthusiasts who favor a more vibrant auditory experience. This switch combines a heavier actuation force with a silky smooth feel, resulting in satisfying feedback during typing sessions. While both switches are linear and designed for fluidity, the Bumblebee Linear emphasizes quiet operation, whereas the Cloud switch provides a pronounced auditory character. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
56g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 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 Cloud - 63.5g, notable similarities and differences emerge that influence the overall typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, which is renowned for its ability to produce a unique sound profile characterized by deeper and more muted tones. In contrast, the Cloud - 63.5g utilizes a nylon top housing that also yields a deeper sound, but its construction allows for more sound absorption due to nylon’s softer plastic qualities. This difference means that while both switches generate a satisfying depth of sound, the Bumblebee Linear may create a more distinct bite due to the harder POM material, whereas the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top contributes to a softer, more rounded auditory experience.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals another layer of similarity, as both the Bumblebee Linear and the Cloud - 63.5g incorporate nylon in their designs. This shared material in the bottom housing results in a fuller and richer sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. The nylon's softness effectively dampens sound, contributing to a muted but satisfying acoustics when keys are pressed fully. Because the bottom housing has a substantial impact on bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect both switches to deliver a similar tactile response and auditory satisfaction during key presses, despite the differences found in their respective top housings.
Ultimately, while the Bumblebee Linear and the Cloud - 63.5g offer distinct qualities through their top housing materials, their nylon bottom housings ensure a consistent foundation for sound and feel. If a user seeks to achieve a certain result in acoustics and tactile feedback, both switches share enough common ground to yield similar experiences despite their differences in top housing materials. Users will benefit from a deeper sound profile that features nuances influenced by the switch's specific housing materials, suggesting that both switches can satisfy enthusiasts looking for rich auditory qualities in their typing experiences.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch offer distinct experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a gentler touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the HMX Cloud switch has a heavier actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force that matches its actuation at 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience that may appeal to users who favor a firmer push feel. Consequently, the Bumblebee Linear is the lighter option, while the HMX Cloud is the heavier switch. Those seeking a lighter force for comfort and endurance should lean towards the Bumblebee, whereas users who enjoy a stronger resistance might prefer the HMX Cloud for its weightier feedback.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This difference indicates that the Bumblebee Linear is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers seeking quicker actuation. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g provides a more generous travel distance, which may deliver a more satisfying depth for users who prefer a less abrupt keypress experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on personal preference: those who prioritize speed would benefit from the shorter Bumblebee Linear, while those who enjoy a deeper travel would likely favor the HMX Cloud - 63.5g.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the Bumblebee Linear is characterized by a bright auditory experience, which provides a crisp response while typing. This brightness offers a level of clarity that can enhance the satisfaction of typing, making it well-suited for those who appreciate a lively sound without the distraction of harshness. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g presents a clacky sound profile that is sharp and percussive. Users will find it delivers a more pronounced auditory pop with each keystroke, producing a high-pitched sound that can be particularly appealing for enthusiasts who enjoy an engaging typing environment. Given that the overall sound experience can vary based on keyboard materials and construction, both switches may present unique auditory feedback when integrated into different setups.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience. This smoothness is critical for those who prefer a seamless transition between keystrokes, free from any tactile interruptions. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offers a bouncy and creamy sensation. The bounce provides a spring-like feedback, allowing for an engaging and dynamic typing experience, while the creamy aspect ensures a silky smooth glide over the keys. This combination results in a very pleasant tactile feel that many typists and gamers seek, making it suitable for prolonged usage without fatigue.
In summary, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switches present distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the keyboard experience. The Bumblebee offers a bright sound alongside a super smooth feel, ideal for those who favor subtle auditory feedback and uninterrupted typing. In contrast, the HMX Cloud introduces a clackier sound with a dynamic feel characterized by bounce and creaminess. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a bright auditory experience or prefer a more engaging typing sensation, and both can be enjoyed satisfactorily with the right keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences regarding tactile feedback, actuation force, and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with an overall smooth feel and a bright sound, the Bumblebee Linear might be your best bet. This switch offers a gentle 50-gram actuation force, making it a great option for prolonged typing sessions or for those who appreciate a quieter keystroke. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and engaging experience, as well as a distinctive clacky sound that adds a bit of personality to your typing, you should consider the HMX Cloud - 63.5g. With a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams, this switch delivers a bouncy, lively feel along with a creamy smoothness that makes each keystroke feel rewarding. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you value a lighter, softer touch or a more substantial, feedback-driven typing sensation.
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