Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. HMX Cloud - 50g

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard, the choice of switches can significantly impact your overall typing experience, and two popular options are the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Cloud - 50g. The Bumblebee Linear switch is revered for its exceptionally smooth typing experience paired with a bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter yet responsive feel while typing. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 50g offers a clacky sound profile, which adds a distinct auditory element that many enthusiasts find appealing, along with a lighter actuation force that enhances the overall typing experience. While both switches promise a smooth feel, their unique sound profiles cater to different preferences; the Bumblebee Linear leans towards a more subdued operation, whereas the Cloud - 50g delivers an engaging auditory feedback. 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

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Cloud - 50g feature different top housing materials, with the Bumblebee Linear utilizing POM while the Cloud - 50g employs nylon. The distinction in materials leads to some variation in sound profile and acoustic characteristics. POM, or Polyoxymethylene, is known for its durability and ability to yield a distinct sound that is deeper and more muted. Users of the Bumblebee Linear can expect a satisfying tactile experience due to these properties. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Cloud - 50g is softer, resulting in a sound that is full-bodied and rounder. While both materials produce a depth in sound, the POM top housing will offer a different tonal quality and resonance compared to the nylon.

When we examine the bottom housing materials, the Bumblebee Linear and the Cloud - 50g both utilize nylon. This commonality means that both switches are likely to produce similar acoustic results despite their different top housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes significantly to sound absorption and creates a deeper sound profile with a muted quality. As a softer material, nylon dampens the impact noise when bottoming out, leading to a rounder and more pleasant sound when typing on either switch. Thus, while the top housing contributes unique characteristics, the shared nylon composition at the bottom ensures that users will experience a somewhat consistent auditory experience, regardless of the differences in the top housing.

In summary, comparing both switches reveals that while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Cloud - 50g have different top housing materials which influence their overall sound and typing feel, the shared nylon bottom housing serves to unify their auditory experience. The POM top of the Bumblebee Linear does introduce a more muted and distinct sound profile, whereas the nylon top of the Cloud - 50g enhances the fullness and roundness of the sound. Ultimately, users can expect a pleasing typing experience from both switches; the nylon bottom housing ensures that the shared acoustic properties facilitate a deeper, more enjoyable sound profile for both. Thus, despite their variations, their nylon bottom housing allows both switches to deliver a satisfying performance when typing, highlighting the nuances brought by the different top casing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch, there are some notable distinctions in their actuation forces, while their bottom out forces remain the same. The Bumblebee Linear features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Cloud - 50g is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 42 grams. This means that for users who prefer a lighter touch, the HMX Cloud may be more appealing, as it allows for easier actuation. Both switches have an identical bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that once pressed fully down, they provide the same resistance. While both switches sit in the lighter category overall, the Bumblebee is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, which could lead to more fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, users looking for a more substantial feel might prefer the Bumblebee, while those valuing ease of use in prolonged usage should consider the Cloud.

Travel distance

The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch exhibit different travel distances, which can significantly affect typing and gaming experiences. The Bumblebee Linear has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, giving it a more traditional depth. For users who prefer responsiveness and quicker key presses, the Bumblebee Linear's shorter travel distance may be advantageous. In contrast, those who favor a more substantial feel when pressing keys may find the 3.9 mm travel of the Cloud - 50g more comfortable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for depth and response time.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch provides a bright sound profile, which many users find appealing for its cheerful and distinctive auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch features a clacky sound profile, which caters more to enthusiasts who enjoy a lively and resonant acoustic experience. Both switches contribute to a pleasurable typing environment, though the Bumblebee Linear’s brightness contrasts with the more resonant clack of the Cloud - 50g. It's worth noting that the overall sound can vary significantly based on the keyboard’s construction, keycap material, and even the typing technique.

Regarding feel, the Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid key presses that enhance typing speed and comfort. The HMX Cloud - 50g also promises a silky smooth feel, catering to those who appreciate a seamless typing action. Both switches are designed to offer a pleasant experience without the tactile bumps found in other switch types, which allows users to expect a similarly smooth response with either switch.

In conclusion, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Cloud - 50g switches both provide smooth key presses, they differ in their sound profiles, with the Bumblebee being bright and the Cloud featuring a more clacky nature. If you prioritize sound, the choice will depend on whether you prefer a cheerful brightness or a resonant clack. However, both switches offer comparable smoothness in feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your selection.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switches, consider your typing preferences and sound preferences. If you lean towards a smooth and quiet experience with a bright but less intrusive sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice; its light actuation and silky feel will make long typing sessions a pleasure. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound while still benefiting from a light actuation force, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is tailored for you, offering that vibrant auditory feedback alongside a smooth keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a subtler auditory experience or prefer a more pronounced sound while typing. Both switches provide a delightful typing experience, so select the one that aligns best with your typing style and sound appreciation.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more