Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that complements your typing style, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro each offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The Bumblebee Linear, renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, is perfect for those who appreciate a seamless keystroke without the interruptions of tactile feedback, while its bright sound profile adds an engaging auditory dimension to your typing sessions. In contrast, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its invigorating tactile bump, providing users with a satisfying response that enhances the act of typing; it also features a loud sound signature on the bassier side, appealing to gamers and typists who enjoy auditory feedback. Although both switches foster an immersive typing experience, they cater to distinctly different preferences when it comes to feel and 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
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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 Creamy Purple Pro, the primary distinction lies in their top housing. The Bumblebee Linear utilizes a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, more muted sound profile. This unique auditory characteristic can be attributed to the material's inherent properties that absorb sound waves effectively, leading to a less resonant experience. In contrast, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its clarity and crispness in sound. This sharper auditory profile is due to polycarbonate's greater rigidity compared to POM, allowing it to produce higher-pitched sounds that resonate more distinctly, especially under the illumination of RGB lighting thanks to its translucency.
Both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, which plays a crucial role in sound absorption. The nylon utilized in both the Bumblebee Linear and the V3 Creamy Purple Pro contributes to a fuller, deeper sound profile, offering a more dull and rounded auditory experience regardless of the top housing choice. This similarity indicates that, while the two switches differ in their top materials—POM versus polycarbonate—they can still achieve comparable results in sound depth due to their shared nylon bottom housing. The degree of resonance and fullness is influenced by the softness of nylon, making for a harmonious combination that balances the unique sound profiles created by the differing top materials.
Overall, the combination of diverse top housings with a uniform bottom housing means that users can expect distinct auditory experiences from each switch. The Bumblebee Linear's muted, deeper sounds impart a cozy typing experience, ideal for quieter settings, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro’s sharp, crisp notes provide a livelier presence that benefits from RGB effects. However, both switches utilize the classic nylon bottom housing, which guarantees a consistent foundation of sound quality that enhances the overall typing experience. Consequently, while they cater to different acoustic preferences due to their top material differences, both switches retain a level of depth and fullness attributed to their common nylon base.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams to the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch, which features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and the same bottom out force of 50 grams, distinct preferences emerge for users based on weight. The Bumblebee Linear is considered heavier, making it possibly more suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, whereas the V3 Creamy Purple Pro caters to users looking for a lighter switch that facilitates longer typing sessions with less finger fatigue. Both switches bottom out at 50 grams, meaning the typing experience in terms of the force needed to press down entirely is the same regardless of the actuation force differences. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether a more tactile feel or ease of typing is prioritized, with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro being the lighter option and the Bumblebee Linear offering a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch features a shorter distance of 3 mm. This means that the Bumblebee Linear switch offers a slightly deeper feel, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or gaming, whereas the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, with its more shallow travel distance, may appeal to those looking for quicker response times. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is aligned with modern preferences for rapid key presses, particularly favored by gamers, while the Bumblebee Linear provides a more traditional sensation that some may prefer for its tactile feedback. Ultimately, if you value speed and responsiveness, the Akko switch might be the better choice, but if you enjoy more depth in your keystrokes, the Bumblebee is likely more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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 features a bright sound profile that enhances the typing experience, making it quite appealing for users who enjoy auditory feedback without being overly distracting. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switch delivers a loud sound signature that leans towards the bassier side, contributing to a deeper auditory experience. Both switches will exhibit variations in sound based on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but expect the Bumblebee to offer clarity and brightness while the Creamy Purple Pro provides a more robust and resonant sound.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a seamless keypress without any tactile interruption. Conversely, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro showcases a prominent tactile bump that invigorates each keystroke, catering to users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback with every press. This difference means that while the Bumblebee delivers a pure linear feel, the Creamy Purple Pro caters to tactile enthusiasts seeking feedback in their typing.
In conclusion, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro serve two distinct preferences in the keyboard-switch realm. The Bumblebee offers a smooth and bright auditory experience, ideal for users who favor a linear feel, while the Creamy Purple Pro combines a loud, bassier sound with tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on whether one prioritizes smoothness and sound clarity or tactile feedback and resonance in their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the experience you seek from your keyboard. If you gravitate towards a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a lighter feel, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent option; its linear design ensures a clean actuation and enhances typing speed, making it ideal for gaming and fast-paced typing tasks. Furthermore, its bright sound profile provides an engaging auditory experience without being excessively loud. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback with each keystroke, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro will suit you well. Its prominent tactile bump is satisfying for typists who enjoy a physical indication of actuation, and the bassier sound adds a unique character that many find pleasurable. Therefore, consider your primary activities—whether you prioritize smoothness and speed or tactile feedback and sound—as well as the overall typing experience you desire, to make an informed decision between these two compelling switch options.
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