Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Gateron Glory Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Glory Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular options are the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Glory Red switches, both of which belong to the linear category. The Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, combining a bright sound profile with its gentle keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a more auditory engagement while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red switches are designed to be lighter, offering a smooth keystroke and a pleasing travel distance, which can enhance comfort during extended typing sessions. While both switches deliver a satisfying linear feel, their nuances cater to different typing preferences; the Bumblebee Linear is particularly engaging for users who appreciate auditory feedback, while the Glory Red is a great choice for individuals seeking a lightweight and comfortable experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
The housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Glory Red switches display both similarities and differences that influence their acoustic profiles. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing a deeper and more muted sound due to its dense structure. Conversely, the Gateron Glory Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a fuller, deeper sound profile. Although both switches favor a sound signature that leans toward mutedness, the Bumblebee Linear's POM housing emphasizes a uniquely pleasant tonal quality that may differ from the more classic dampening properties of the nylon found in the Glory Red, suggesting that while both switch tops achieve a similar goal of noise reduction, the materials will still create distinguishable acoustic nuances.
When examining the bottom housings, the two switches offer an interesting contrast. Both the Bumblebee Linear and the Glory Red feature nylon bottom housings, which are praised for their sound-absorbing qualities and the fullness they add to the typing experience. The shared use of nylon here ensures that both switches will create a similar duller and rounder sound when bottoming out. This commonality not only helps unify their overall sound profiles but also indicates that the tactile sensation of bottoming out will feel similarly plush across both switches. Therefore, while the top housings diverge, the shared nylon bottom housing provides consistency in the experience, allowing users to expect comparable acoustic results.
In terms of overall performance, it’s important to recognize how the distinct materials impact the typing sensation and sound across the two switches as a whole. The Bumblebee Linear’s POM top works well in conjunction with the nylon bottom to cultivate a sound experience that is deep and satisfying while providing a unique finish on the key release. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red, with its matching nylon top and bottom, maintains a harmonious consistency throughout the switch that might appeal to users looking for a classic feel without the tonal complexity offered by POM. Both switches are generally aligned towards creating a muted and enjoyable typing experience, but the differences in the construction of the top housings ultimately influence how the switches feel and sound in application, leading to distinct yet comparable auditory outcomes when used in keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, we see that both have an identical actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that they require the same amount of force to register a keystroke. This similarity allows typists to experience comparable responsiveness during use. However, the Bumblebee Linear switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating the force needed to fully depress the switch, which provides a slightly firmer feel when bottoming out. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red does not have a specified bottom out force, leaving that measurement unknown. Consequently, while both switches feature a light actuation force suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Bumblebee Linear is technically heavier when considering the bottom out force. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience may appreciate the Bumblebee's design, but the lack of bottom out force information for the Gateron switch leaves a gap in understanding its overall force profile.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that pressing down on either key will result in the same distance traveled. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect a comparable feel and response when using these switches, providing a consistent typing experience. Therefore, regardless of the switch chosen, users will achieve similar results in terms of keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 boasts a bright sound profile that adds an engaging auditory element to the typing experience. This bright sound can help elevate the overall aesthetic of typing, providing an enjoyable feedback loop with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red switch is known for its pleasing travel distance, which compliments its smooth keystroke with a sound that is typically satisfying but less emphasized than that of the Bumblebee. Both switches can produce sound variations depending on the keyboard construction and keycap materials, which can lead to different auditory experiences, but the Bumblebee clearly stands out with its distinct brightness.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize fluid motion in their keypresses. The Gateron Glory Red switch also ensures a smooth keystroke, presenting a light touch that many users find comfortable, allowing for relaxed and effortless typing sessions. While both switches focus on smoothness, the Bumblebee's experience might offer additional nuances due to its unique design, making it particularly pleasing for enthusiastic typists who appreciate a tactile finish.
In conclusion, while both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Gateron Glory Red linear switches offer a smooth typing experience, they have distinct characteristics in sound and overall feel. The Bumblebee Linear provides a brighter auditory experience and an exceptionally smooth keystroke, whereas the Glory Red focuses on a lighter touch with an enjoyable travel distance. Ultimately, if you prefer a brighter sound combined with smoothness, the Bumblebee may be your go-to. However, if a light touch with overall smoothness is what you seek, the Glory Red will also serve you well. Both options promise enjoyable typing experiences, allowing personal preferences to dictate the final choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. If you seek a switch that provides a light bottom out force of 50 grams, coupled with an exceptionally smooth typing experience and a bright sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear might be the ideal option for you. It's particularly well-suited for users who appreciate a satisfying auditory feedback and a fluid keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that is slightly lighter in feel, offering a smooth keystroke with an enjoyable travel distance, the Gateron Glory Red could be a great fit, especially if you value a straightforward, pleasant experience without the need for extra sound cues. Thus, consider your tactile preferences, desired actuation force, and sound dynamics when making your decision. Whichever switch you choose, both options provide enjoyable typing experiences that can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
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