Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. HMX Deep Navy
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Deep Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two notable contenders are the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Deep Navy, both of which offer unique experiences while maintaining the characteristics of linear switches. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, complemented by a bright sound profile that adds a lively touch to every keystroke, making it an excellent choice for typists seeking feedback without tactile interruptions. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy offers a rich and sharp sound profile thanks to its full nylon construction, immersing users in a satisfying acoustic experience. Additionally, the Ly stem of the Deep Navy ensures a silky smoothness with each press, appealing to gamers and typists who prioritize effortless actuation during intense sessions. While both switches cater to those who appreciate linearity in their typing or gaming experience, their sound profiles and construction materials set them apart. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Deep Navy, a key similarity emerges in their bottom housings, as both utilize nylon. This choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer texture allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, both switches offer a similar auditory experience characterized by a rounded and muted sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. The shared properties of nylon in the bottom housing suggest that users will enjoy a consistent, satisfying sound during typing, regardless of which switch is chosen.
In contrast, the top housing of each switch diverges in material composition. The Bumblebee Linear's top housing is crafted from POM, which produces a unique sound profile that is generally deeper and more muted than its counterpart. This distinct fabric conveys a slightly different auditory experience upon key release, contributing to the switch's overall sound and feel. Meanwhile, the Deep Navy employs nylon for its top housing, similar to its bottom housing, which reinforces a balanced sound signature that doesn't vary significantly upon key press and release. This combination in the Deep Navy may lead to a more uniform sound experience compared to the Bumblebee Linear's differentiated approach, where the sound qualities are distinctly split between the two materials.
Overall, while both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Deep Navy leverage nylon for their bottom housings, allowing for a consistent sound quality, they take separate paths with their top housing materials that can influence the overall typing experience. Users of the Bumblebee Linear may notice a richer variety of sound due to the POM top's unique acoustic properties, while those opting for the Deep Navy may appreciate the consistent auditory profile that nylon brings across both housing components. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may depend on personal preference for sound differentiation versus a more cohesive auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch to the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, we note some differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Deep Navy exhibits a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Deep Navy is the lighter switch overall, making it potentially more suitable for those who favor longer typing sessions or extended gaming due to less strain on the fingers. Conversely, the Bumblebee Linear provides a firmer push feel with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, which might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches are classified as light, the Deep Navy offers an easier press with both actuation and bottom out forces being lower than those of the Bumblebee.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch exhibit the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and key press experiences when using either switch, making them equally responsive for typing and gaming scenarios. Since both switches share this travel distance, enthusiasts can achieve comparable performance and feel, regardless of their preference for one brand over the other.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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 is known for its bright sound profile, which provides a lively acoustic backdrop during typing. The HMX Deep Navy switch, on the other hand, features a rich and sharp sound profile, attributed to its full nylon construction. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Bumblebee leaning towards a more cheerful tone and the Deep Navy providing a deeper, more resonant sound. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can vary based on multiple factors, including the keyboard design and choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, ensuring that each keystroke glides effortlessly without any tactile bumps or interruptions. Similarly, the HMX Deep Navy switch, crafted with a Ly stem, also delivers a silky smoothness with every keystroke. This guarantees that both switches excel in providing a seamless, linear response that is ideal for a smooth typing experience, appealing to users who prefer the absence of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Deep Navy linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Bumblebee’s bright sound and smooth feel contrast with the Deep Navy’s rich sound and equally smooth keystrokes. While their sound profiles differ, both switches excel in delivering a seamless typing experience. For those seeking a linear switch, either option would likely provide satisfying results, depending on personal auditory preferences and the specific characteristics of their setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a switch that offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience combined with a slightly brighter sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear might be the way to go. Its 50-gram bottom-out force provides just enough resistance for those who prefer a lighter touch without sacrificing control. On the other hand, if you value a rich, sharp sound profile coupled with a silky smooth keystroke, the Deep Navy switch could be more to your liking. With a slightly lower bottom-out force of 45 grams, it allows for effortless key presses and is well-suited for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, both switches are designed for a satisfying linear experience, so consider factors like sound preference and tactile response when making your decision. Your comfort and enjoyment are paramount, so consider trying both types if possible to see which best fits your style.