Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver offer distinct characteristics catering to different user preferences and needs. The Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and a bright sound profile, making it an attractive option for typists seeking a pleasant auditory experience without the tactile feedback of a clicky switch. Its smooth actuation allows for effortless typing, appealing to both casual users and professionals alike. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are designed with gamers in mind, featuring a shorter travel distance of just 3.4mm, which enhances responsiveness and ensures rapid input, a crucial advantage in fast-paced gaming scenarios. With vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch sound, these switches deliver an immersive experience that can elevate gaming sessions. While both switches offer their unique benefits—smoothness for typing with the Bumblebee and quick responsiveness for gaming with the G Pro 3.0 Silver—each caters to different activities and preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, notable differences emerge in the top housing composition. The Bumblebee Linear employs a Polyoxymethylene (POM) top housing, known for creating a unique sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. This characteristic results from POM's properties, which contribute to the overall acoustic experience of typing. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which delivers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback. Thus, while both switches provide distinct auditory experiences due to their differing top materials, both are capable of eliciting satisfying sounds in their own right based on the housing material's inherent qualities.
The bottom housing composition of both the Bumblebee Linear and the G Pro 3.0 Silver reveals a similarity that influences their auditory characteristics. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which is a classic choice among switches due to its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This absorption allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a more muted experience when compared to the brighter tones of other materials. Hence, when the key is bottomed out, both switches will produce a similar sound profile, resulting in that satisfying cushioning effect when a key is fully pressed down. This commonality in bottom housing indicates that users can expect a deeper auditory experience from both switches during key presses, despite their differing top housings.
Overall, the combination of materials in both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches showcases their distinct sound profiles while sharing similar characteristics in terms of bottom housing. The contrasting top housings dictate the sound produced upon releasing a key, with POM creating a more subdued sound and polycarbonate offering a brighter tone. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a more consistent, deep sound during key presses, resulting in an enjoyable typing experience regardless of the top material. Therefore, while the switches differ in their top housing sounds, the similarities in their bottoms create a cohesive auditory experience for users.
Weight
Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch exhibit identical specifications in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with both switches requiring an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This similarity in force measurements means that users can expect comparable typing responses and keystroke activations under similar conditions, making both switches suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Since both switches are classified as light, they will appeal to users who favor a more effortless typing experience without feeling fatigued over extended periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may boil down to other factors such as brand preference or specific design traits, as their actuation and bottom out forces are equivalent, providing users with similar tactile experiences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference indicates that the Bumblebee Linear switch offers a more pronounced tactile experience due to its greater depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver's shorter travel distance may be favored by gamers and others seeking faster response times, providing a crisper and more immediate action when typing or gaming. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that accommodates a deeper keystroke, the Bumblebee Linear is the better option, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 provides an exceptionally bright sound profile, complementing its smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches produce a lower-pitched, bassy tone with thocky characteristics, creating a deeper and richer auditory experience. The sound you experience with both switches, however, can vary significantly based on your keyboard’s build and the keycaps used, making them capable of delivering enjoyable auditory feedback in their respective unique ways.
In terms of feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is renowned for its smoothness, which allows for an effortless typing experience. Although the specific tactile feedback of the Bumblebee isn't defined here, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are characterized as buttery and creamy, indicating a fluid keystroke that enhances both gaming and typing scenarios. This quality is often a result of factory lubrication and design, leading to a silky sensation while typing. Thus, while the Bumblebee Linear's smoothness indicates a close-knit feel, the G Pro Silver’s buttery profile promises a similarly satisfying experience.
Combining the information on sound and feel, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer engaging experiences tailor-made for their audiences, though they cater to slightly different preferences. The Bumblebee Linear tends to shine with its bright sound and esteemed smooth feel, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out with its rich auditory feedback and heavenly, fluid keystrokes. If you’re seeking a superior gaming experience or a feel that leans more towards buttery fluidity, the G Pro may be preferable, while the Bumblebee will serve those prioritizing a bright sound and satisfying smoothness in their typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for the auditory and tactile aspects of your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches ultimately hinges on your primary use case and personal preferences. If you seek a smooth, effortless typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice. Its lighter actuation force makes it ideal for long typing sessions, especially if you enjoy a more tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you're primarily focused on gaming, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a shorter travel distance that facilitates lightning-fast key presses, providing a competitive advantage during intense gameplay. This switch’s thocky sound profile lowers the noise level while delivering a satisfying auditory experience during your gaming marathons. Ultimately, while both switches feature the same bottom-out force, your decision should align with whether you prioritize a smooth, enjoyable typing experience for productivity or a quick, responsive feel for competitive gaming.
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