Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko Fairy are two prominent options that cater to different user preferences. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, complemented by a bright sound profile, making it an attractive choice for those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy switches are particularly well-suited for office environments due to their factory-applied lubrication, which enhances their smoothness while also reducing noise—a perfect characteristic for maintaining a quiet workspace. Their medium weight strikes the right balance, providing satisfying tactile feedback without the risk of fatigue during extended typing sessions. While both switches offer a linear feel that ensures uninterrupted keystrokes, the Bumblebee's vibrant sound may appeal to gamers and typists seeking a more dynamic experience, whereas the Fairy's subtle, muted nature is ideal for professional settings. 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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko Fairy switches exhibit both similarities and differences that significantly influence their sound profiles and typing experiences. The Bumblebee Linear utilizes a POM top housing, which contributes to a more muted, deeper sound profile, distinct from the Akko Fairy's nylon top housing. While both materials promote a deeper sound, the POM's inherent characteristics yield a unique, pleasing auditory experience that differs from the softer, fuller sound produced by nylon. The dampening effect of nylon allows for a warmer resonance, but the Bumblebee’s POM top creates an entirely different tonal quality upon release, showcasing how material choice can impact not just the physical feel of a switch, but also its auditory feedback.
Both the Bumblebee Linear and Akko Fairy feature nylon bottom housings, which align in terms of their composition and effects on sound. Nylon's softer properties contribute to a more rounded, fuller sound, absorbing frequencies that might be sharper or crisper with harder materials. Hence, in both switches, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall acoustic profile by softening the bottom-out sound. This shared quality allows for a consistent auditory experience when typing, despite the distinction in their upper housing materials. Therefore, while the Bumblebee Linear may produce a unique auditory experience due to its POM top, the foundation of sound profile consistency can be seen in the nylon bottom housings of both models.
The interplay of the different materials in the Bumblebee and Fairy switches creates nuanced typing experiences that reflect the individual properties of each housing type. The POM material of the Bumblebee's top housing provides a distinctive sound when keys are released, while the nylon top of the Fairy contributes to a warmer sound. Both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing characteristics of nylon in their bottom housings, which enhances the fullness of the typing experience. As such, while users may enjoy distinct auditory feedback when pressing and releasing keys on each switch, they can expect a level of warmth and depth from the nylon components that creates a sense of familiarity between the two options.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, a clear distinction emerges in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Akko Fairy demands a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. As a result, individuals preferring a lighter switch should gravitate toward the Bumblebee, while those desiring a firmer push feel would benefit from the Fairy. Thus, in summary, the Bumblebee Linear is the lighter option, while the Akko Fairy is the heavier choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Bumblebee Linear features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Fairy has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch that offers a more substantial feel with a deeper press, the Bumblebee would be the better choice. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal more to gamers or those who prefer quicker response times, as the shorter travel can contribute to faster actuation. Therefore, if you value a quick and responsive feel, the Fairy would suit you better, whereas the Bumblebee is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Fairy has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Fairy for $3.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is characterized by its bright sound profile, which contributes to an engaging typing experience. This allows for a more pronounced auditory feedback than some other linear switches. In contrast, the Akko Fairy switch is designed to provide a muted sound, which is softer and quieter, making it an excellent option for quieter environments such as offices. The neutrality of the Fairy’s sound further enhances its versatility, allowing it to be suitable for various settings without drawing unnecessary attention. Thus, while the Bumblebee offers a more vibrant auditory experience, the Fairy emphasizes subtlety and discretion.
In terms of feel, the Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, though specific tactile attributes are not detailed. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy switch possesses a mild feel that provides a gentle typing experience, making it approachable for all users, be they novices or veterans. Its subtle resistance strikes a balance between providing some feedback without being overwhelming, which is ideal for long typing sessions. The refined lubrication in the Fairy further contributes to its comfort, promising a pleasant experience during extended use. Therefore, while the Bumblebee is noted for its smooth action, the Fairy offers a balanced and user-friendly feel.
Overall, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Akko Fairy linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience. The Bumblebee is aimed at those who enjoy a brighter, more engaging typing sound, while the Fairy suits users seeking a quieter and more subdued auditory environment. In terms of feel, the Bumblebee offers smoothness that users may find appealing, while the Fairy presents a gentle touch that is comfortable for long durations. Depending on your priority—auditory feedback versus a discreet typing experience—each switch can deliver satisfying results, albeit in different contexts.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko Fairy linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typical usage scenarios. If you favor a lighter typing experience with a bright and cheerful sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear switch is an excellent choice. Its low bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it feel effortless to type on, which can be particularly appealing for gamers or those who enjoy rapid typing and want to minimize finger fatigue. However, if you are seeking a switch that provides a more balanced feel with medium resistance—offering 60 grams bottom-out force—the Akko Fairy switch is ideal. Its refined, muted sound profile is well-suited for office environments where a quiet workspace is paramount, while the factory-applied lubrication ensures a smooth stroke, making it comfortable for prolonged use. Overall, your final choice should align with your typing style and environment: opt for the Bumblebee Linear for a lively, agile experience, or choose the Fairy for a more reserved, professional approach.
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