Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and KTT Glimp both present exciting options for enthusiasts seeking a smooth typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear is particularly renowned for its exceptionally smooth action and bright sound profile, making it an appealing choice for users who prioritize swift keystrokes and a more auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp offers a medium-light actuation force that brings together comfort and responsiveness, striking a balance that caters to those who desire a substantial typing experience without excessive resistance. Its tactile feedback and clacky sound profile create a satisfying auditory and physical interaction with each keystroke, ideal for users who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. While both switches provide excellent linear capabilities, their distinct sound profiles and actuation forces cater to different 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Glimp, notable differences arise between their respective top housings. The Bumblebee Linear employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, more muted sound profile. This housing material contributes to an overall acoustic experience that leans towards warmth and richness, creating a unique auditory environment for users who appreciate that sound signature. Conversely, the KTT Glimp utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it particularly effective in combination with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Thus, while both switches aim to deliver an interesting auditory experience, the Bumblebee Linear focuses on depth and fullness, while the Glimp is characterized by clarity and brightness.
Both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, which contributes significantly to the overall sound profile. Nylon is considered a classic choice for switch housings, providing a softer feel that absorbs sound and mellows the auditory output. As a result, both the Bumblebee Linear and Glimp exhibit a deeper and fuller sound when typing, largely due to this shared bottom housing material. The uniformity of their bottom housings ensures that, regardless of the differences in their top housings, they will both offer a cohesive sound experience that is rich and textured during typing. This commonality in material allows users to expect a satisfying acoustic feedback that enhances their typing experience, regardless of which switch is chosen.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the Bumblebee Linear and KTT Glimp dictate different auditory characteristics, while their identical nylon bottom housings unify the overall typing sound. When engaging with these switches, users will experience the effects of each material in different ways; the Bumblebee Linear’s POM top allows for a muted release sound, whereas the Glimp's polycarbonate top provides a more resonant, pronounced rebound. The synergy created by the combination of distinct top housings and a shared bottom housing allows for tailored experiences. Those who prefer muted, warmer tones will gravitate towards the Bumblebee Linear, while users in search of a brighter and clearer sound will find the KTT Glimp more appealing. Thus, individual preferences for sound profiles can guide the choice between these two fascinating options.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch present interesting differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The Bumblebee Linear features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. In contrast, the Glimp switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams but has a higher bottom-out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This means that while both switches provide a relatively low actuation force, the Bumblebee Linear has a softer bottoming-out feel compared to the Glimp. Consequently, typists who prefer a lighter and less taxing typing experience may find the Bumblebee more appealing, especially for prolonged use. However, those who enjoy a bit more resistance might gravitate towards the KTT Glimp despite its lower actuation force, appreciating the firmer bottom-out. Overall, the Bumblebee switch can be considered the lighter option, while the Glimp, with its higher bottom-out force, may provide a stronger tactile feedback for users who favor a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, we find a notable difference: the Bumblebee Linear has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Glimp boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or users seeking faster response times due to its more responsive feel. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp with its 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper, more pronounced keystroke, which some users might prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your individual preferences for switch depth and response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 KTT Glimp linear switches, the notable distinction lies in their auditory characteristics. The Bumblebee Linear features a bright sound profile, which adds an engaging element to the typing experience with a pleasant resonance during keystrokes. In contrast, the Glimp switch is described as having a fairly clacky sound profile, producing sharp and snappy tones that are crisp and bright. This clackiness can create an exciting auditory feedback, especially appealing to those who enjoy an audible experience while typing. However, it's essential to remember that sound is not solely dependent on the switch; factors like the keyboard design and keycap material can also significantly influence the final acoustic result.
Regarding the feel, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear excels in delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless keystrokes. This characteristic provides a clean and satisfying sensation as the fingers glide across the keys. Conversely, the KTT Glimp offers a more complex typing experience with its creamy and mildly tactile feedback. The creamy aspect suggests a buttery typing sensation, while the mild nature contributes to a gentle and approachable feel, making it suitable for a broad range of users. Together, these attributes present distinct experiences; while the Bumblebee prioritizes smoothness, the Glimp balances smoothness with a touch of tactile feedback, catering to those who enjoy a bit of response in their typing.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and KTT Glimp linear switches cater to different preferences within the linear switch category. The Bumblebee brings a bright sound and a smooth typing experience, ideal for users looking for fluidity in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Glimp switch offers a clackier sound with a creamy feel, striking a balance that appeals to those seeking a more substantial tactile experience without facing overwhelming resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile sensations, as both switches promise enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Glimp linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. If you prioritize a lighter actuation and a remarkably smooth typing experience, the Bumblebee Linear switch would be your best bet. Its 50-gram bottom-out force ensures minimal resistance, allowing for effortless keystrokes, making it a suitable option for those who enjoy a quick and nimble typing experience. The bright sound profile further enhances its appeal, particularly if you enjoy a cheerful auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more substance in each keystroke, the KTT Glimp is an excellent option with its slightly heavier 53-gram bottom-out force. It provides a satisfying typing feel characterized as creamy and mild, striking a balance between comfort and responsiveness. The clacky sound profile adds an engaging acoustic quality, perfect for those who like their switches to produce a pleasant, percussive sound without overwhelming distraction. Therefore, consider your typing style and environment: go for the Bumblebee for lighter, smoother, and brighter experiences, or choose the Glimp for a more substantial, satisfying, and slightly pronounced sound and feel.
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