Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Dareu Firefly represent two distinct approaches to typing experiences, catering to different preferences among users. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth actuation, making it a top choice for gamers and typists seeking a fluid and uninterrupted keystroke, complemented by a lively sound profile that adds a layer of auditory engagement. In contrast, the Dareu Firefly offers a unique twist on the traditional tactile switch, providing a light actuation with a subtle hint of clickiness, all while maintaining a notably quiet operation—ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience without sacrificing feedback. Choosing the Bumblebee Linear might appeal to those desiring a swift, effortless response, while the Firefly may attract users who enjoy a tactile sensation without the noise typically associated with such switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Dareu Firefly, it is clear that the top and bottom housings significantly influence the overall sound profiles of these switches. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is designed to produce a deeper, more muted sound. On the other hand, the Firefly showcases a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound signature. The inherent properties of POM, being slightly softer and more dampening, contrast sharply with the rigidity of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonant quality of each keystroke. Therefore, when using these two switches, one can expect noticeably different auditory experiences based on the material chosen for the top housing.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Bumblebee Linear and Firefly employ nylon, which is a tried-and-true material in switch design. The nylon in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is softer, absorbing more sound waves compared to harder plastics. This shared bottom housing material means that, regardless of the tonal differences created by their respective top housings, both switches will provide a similar tactile and auditory sensation when bottoming out. This aspect ensures that users will experience a consistent foundation in terms of sound depth with both switches, despite any top housing contrasts.
When considering the overall performance, we can see how these contrasting top housing materials shape the final auditory output beyond just isolation to the individual housing type. The impact of the POM top in the Bumblebee Linear vs. the polycarbonate top in the Firefly results in distinct sound characteristics during actuation and release. As such, users aiming for a deeper and more muted sound may gravitate toward the Bumblebee Linear, while those looking for clarity and resonance would likely prefer the Firefly. However, both switches offer an enjoyable typing experience due to their shared nylon bottom housings, capturing a balance of sound quality that highlights the unique traits of both top materials.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch present some interesting contrasts in their actuation forces, with the Bumblebee Linear requiring 45 grams to actuate compared to the lighter 40 grams of the Firefly. This makes the Firefly switch more suitable for users seeking a lighter keystroke, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bumblebee Linear again provides a definitive measurement at 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Firefly remains unknown. This lack of data means that we can't directly compare their bottoming out experiences, but we can infer that the Bumblebee's bottom out force gives a more substantial feel when keys are fully pressed down. Overall, if someone prefers a heavier, more tactile experience, the Bumblebee Linear is the better option, while those favoring a lighter touch might gravitate towards the Firefly.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, we find a notable difference. The Bumblebee Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Firefly tactile switch offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Firefly provides a more pronounced keystroke depth, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Bumblebee Linear switch may appeal to gamers or users seeking faster response times, making it ideal for quick actions. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that offers quicker activation, the Bumblebee will suit your needs better, whereas those who enjoy a greater tactile feedback might gravitate towards the Firefly.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Firefly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Firefly for $3.76.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Dareu Firefly switches, the Bumblebee Linear is known for its bright sound profile, which contributes to a vivid auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the Firefly switch presents a chirpy sound, characterized by a slight squeak that adds a unique acoustic signature to each keystroke. While both produce relatively pleasant sounds, the Bumblebee's brightness contrasts with the Firefly’s more subdued and quirky chirp, making them suited for different user preferences depending on how much auditory feedback is desired during typing.
In terms of feel, the Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, facilitating seamless key presses. On the other hand, the Firefly switch features an easy-to-press mechanism that yields a gentle resistance, resulting in a light actuation that minimizes the force required to activate each key. This effortless feel can reduce finger fatigue, especially during extended typing sessions. Both switches aim to enhance comfort; however, the Bumblebee emphasizes smoothness, while the Firefly balances a low-effort actuation with a hint of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Dareu Firefly switches offer distinctive sound and feel characteristics, both can cater to users desiring smooth typing experiences. The Bumblebee Linear excels in brightness and fluidity, while the Firefly offers a unique chirp and easy actuation that reduces effort during long typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and the feel you seek in your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch depends significantly on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a lighter touch, the Bumblebee Linear switch, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, could be your go-to choice. This switch excels in providing an effortless keystroke and is ideal for those who enjoy rapid typing or gaming, thanks to its seamless actuation and pleasing sound profile. On the other hand, if you appreciate a gentle tactile feedback without the loudness often associated with traditional clicky switches, the Firefly switch is an excellent alternative. With its easy-to-press design and a very light actuation force, it promotes comfort during long typing sessions while offering a subtle chirpy sound that differentiates it from more conventional options. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style: opt for the Bumblebee Linear for speed and smoothness, while the Firefly will cater to those who balance tactile feedback with quieter operation.
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