Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro present two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear tactile experience but with distinct characteristics. The Bumblebee Linear excels in providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience accompanied by a bright sound profile, making it a fantastic choice for users who prioritize a clean and uninterrupted keystroke. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro captures attention as a budget-friendly option, featuring a satisfying blend of poppy clackiness and creamy tactile feel, great for those who appreciate a lively auditory engagement without compromising too much on smoothness. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, the Bumblebee Linear leans more towards a refined auditory and tactile experience, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a more vibrant and interactive sound. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches, a distinct contrast emerges in their top housings. The Bumblebee Linear utilizes a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, more muted sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to POM's unique acoustic properties, which enhance the switch's overall sound experience by creating a pleasing resonance. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to this clearer sound profile, making it particularly advantageous for users who appreciate more pronounced acoustic feedback. Although the sound profiles differ significantly—one being deep and muted and the other sharp and resonant—both switches can achieve satisfying auditory results depending on user preference.
In terms of bottom housings, both switches share a commonality: they both utilize nylon as their material. This classic choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, largely due to nylon’s softer composition, which effectively absorbs sound. As a result, both the Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offer a more rounded typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to the overall acoustic performance. This shared characteristic underscores that while the top housing determines the nature of sound during key release, the bottom housing is pivotal in influencing the sound and feel at the moment of bottom-out. Hence, both switches, despite their differences in top housing materials, maintain a familiar acoustic richness due to their nylon bottoms.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials and similar bottom housing constructions creates a unique experience for each switch. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear’s POM top results in a deeper, more muted auditory experience, whereas the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro stands out with a sharp, clear sound due to its polycarbonate top. Nevertheless, both models leverage their nylon bottom housings to provide a deep and satisfying tactile feedback, ensuring that users can enjoy a rich typing experience regardless of the switch variation. Whether one leans toward the muted richness of the Bumblebee Linear or the crisp clarity of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, both switches offer distinct yet enjoyable sound profiles complemented by the acoustic qualities of their common nylon bottoms.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Bumblebee Linear features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to register a keystroke. Conversely, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push. This difference means that users who favor a lighter switch, such as the Bumblebee Linear, will likely find it more comfortable for prolonged use, while those who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback should gravitate towards the heavier Akko switch. Overall, the Bumblebee Linear is the lighter option, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a more robust feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Bumblebee Linear switch offers a deeper feel when pressed, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key response. In contrast, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's shorter travel distance may cater more towards gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation, aligning with the trend of shorter distances becoming increasingly popular. Ultimately, if you favor a more responsive typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro could be your ideal choice, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear would be better suited for those who appreciate a more traditional, deeper feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 Bumblebee Linear switch is known for its bright auditory profile, which enhances the overall typing experience with a pop of clarity. This brightness allows for a crispness that can make each keypress feel more distinct, contributing to a lively atmosphere. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a poppy, clacky sound, which many users find appealing. This sound gives a more vibrant auditory experience with a lively character, ideal for those who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback during typing. Despite their distinct sound qualities, both switches create a pleasant atmosphere, with personal preference ultimately guiding the choice between these two options.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, allowing for a very fluid typing experience that feels effortless. This can help reduce finger fatigue, especially during prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro boasts an easy-to-press nature, providing a gentle resistance that makes typing comfortable and responsive. Additionally, its feathery feel and bouncy feedback give a lively and engaging typing experience, ideal for users who appreciate a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard. These characteristics create a low-impact typing feel, enhancing comfort during extensive use. Overall, both switches offer unique experiences, yet they excel in their ability to deliver a pleasant typing sensation.
In summary, while the Bumblebee Linear excels with its exceptionally smooth feel and bright sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a satisfying balance of poppy sound and effortless, dynamic feel. Depending on the individual's preference for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can lead to an enjoyable keyboard experience. Ultimately, whether one gravitates towards the clarity of the Bumblebee or the engaging response of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, both options promise an excellent entry into the world of mechanical switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear may be your best bet. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for extended typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue with its feathery and bouncy feel. This switch is perfect for those who favor a responsive, effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you are more budget-conscious and seek a fulfilling tactile and auditory experience, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro should be your go-to option. With a 60-gram bottom-out force, it strikes a balance between satisfying resistance and ease of activation. Its poppy sound, combined with a polished and snappy feel, enhances not only your typing but also your gaming experience. Thus, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether it's the lightweight, smooth feel of the Bumblebee Linear or the vibrant, tactile engagement of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro—and choose accordingly for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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