Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow switch, enthusiasts are often drawn to the distinct qualities that each switch offers. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a seamless feel without any tactile interruptions. Its bright sound profile adds a lively dimension to typing, appealing to users who enjoy auditory feedback without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the KTT Cream Yellow switch is recognized for its engaging clacky sound and bouncy feel, courtesy of its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, which provides a uniquely resonant audio feedback. This switch's lengthened spring adds an extra layer of response, enhancing the typing experience for those who appreciate lively, tactile interaction. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, their differing auditory characteristics and tactile responses can significantly influence user preference. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Cream Yellow, notable distinctions emerge, particularly in the top housing. The Bumblebee Linear features a Polyoxymethylene (POM) top housing, known for delivering a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and more muted. This contrasts sharply with the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and more resonant sound due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature. The translucency of the polycarbonate also adds an aesthetic quality, making it a preferred choice for RGB lighting applications, while the POM's opaque finish can provide a more subdued visual effect.
Both switches, however, utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile owing to nylon's softer characteristics. This similarity means that both the Bumblebee Linear and Cream Yellow can deliver a low-end sound that is rich and satisfying, irrespective of the differences in their top housings. Nylon's sound-absorbing properties contribute to a rounded audio experience in both switches, ensuring that users will find a level of consistency in the bottom-out sound and feel regardless of the sound signature created by the top housings.
Additionally, the interaction between both housing materials plays a crucial role in the overall performance of each switch. While the top housing defines the character of the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing primarily influences how it feels and sounds when bottoming out. Therefore, despite the POM and polycarbonate top housing differences, the shared nylon bottom housing in both models ensures that users will experience a deep and satisfying typing sound when keys are pressed down. This unique combination allows for a diverse auditory experience, showcasing how varying top materials can affect sound characteristics while retaining foundational similarities through the usage of nylon on the bottom.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which cater to varying user preferences. The Bumblebee Linear features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who favor a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Cream Yellow switch requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which appeals to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, the Bumblebee Linear is the lighter option, while the Cream Yellow is the heavier one. These differences suggest that users looking for ease and comfort during prolonged use may prefer the Bumblebee, whereas those who enjoy tactile resistance might gravitate toward the Cream Yellow.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow Linear switch, there is a slight difference that may influence your choice. The Bumblebee Linear has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cream Yellow measures at 3.5 mm. This makes the KTT Cream Yellow the shorter option by 0.1 mm. For users who favor more responsive keystrokes, the Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance may be appealing as it allows for quicker actuation. Conversely, those who prefer a deeper typing experience might find the Bumblebee Linear's longer travel distance more satisfying. Overall, while both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional options, the Bumblebee Linear can provide a heftier feel due to its increased depth, making it a better choice for users seeking a more pronounced keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 Bsun Bumblebee Linear offers a bright sound profile, creating a pleasant auditory backdrop while typing. Its sound is known for being clear and smooth, making it less intrusive than some other switch types. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow switches produce a distinctively clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy response when pressed. This crisp, bright, and percussive audio feedback can be especially enjoyable for those who appreciate a more resonant sound from their mechanical keyboards. It’s important to note that both switches’ sound characteristics may also be influenced by the choice of keyboard build and keycaps, so individual experiences may vary.
When examining the feel of these switches, the Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, promoting a seamless transition as fingers glide across the keys. This smoothness can be ideal for users who prefer an uninterrupted typing flow. In contrast, the Cream Yellow switch provides a distinctly bouncy sensation, delivering a lively feel that gives a satisfying rebound with each press. This bouncy feedback can lead to a more dynamic typing experience and is often favored by those who enjoy a tactile response while typing.
In summary, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and KTT Cream Yellow linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Bumblebee Linear stands out with its bright sound and smooth feel, while the Cream Yellow captivates with its clacky sound and bouncy feedback. Depending on the qualities you prioritize—whether that's a quieter, smoother typing experience or a more resonant and lively one—you can choose switches that align with your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch with a focus on smoothness and a bright auditory signature, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent option. It's perfect for those who may be looking for quieter environments or who prioritize seamless key presses in their typing experience. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a more tactile and lively typing experience, the Cream Yellow switch might be your go-to. With its clacky sound profile and bouncy feedback, it's particularly satisfying for users who enjoy a more pronounced audio and tactile interaction when typing or gaming. Ultimately, your decision should align with what aspects you value most in your keyboard experience: the subtle elegance of the Bumblebee Linear or the engaging feedback of the Cream Yellow.