Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the TTC Gold Red Pro stand out as two excellent linear options, each appealing to different preferences and use cases. The Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its extraordinarily smooth typing experience complemented by a bright sound profile, making it ideal for users who appreciate a distinct auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, offering a seamless and easy-to-press mechanism that caters to a wide range of users, from gamers to professionals. With a neutral sound signature that strikes a perfect balance—neither too pronounced nor too muted—this switch is adaptable for various environments. While both switches promise smooth operation, the Bumblebee emphasizes a more vibrant auditory experience, whereas the Gold Red Pro leans toward a more subtle soundscape, designed to blend into any setting. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their acoustic profiles. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a uniquely deep and muted sound, creating an engaging auditory experience that leans toward a more subdued tone. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro employs a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, high-pitched sound characterized by its clearer and more resonant qualities. This stark difference means that while the Bumblebee Linear's sound is warmer and rounder, the Gold Red Pro produces a crisper note, demonstrating how housing material choice directly affects sound aesthetics in mechanical switches.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic and widely appreciated material in the keyboard community. This consistency in bottom housing material means that the foundational sound and feel of both switches share a similar characteristic: a deeper and fuller auditory experience due to nylon's softened properties. As both switches exhibit the same mid-range qualities from their nylon bottoms, the fundamental typing experience—particularly the bottom-out sound and feel—will be similar across both designs. This similarity may appeal to users who appreciate the soft bottoming out sensation that nylon delivers.
Ultimately, the combined effects of housing materials in both the Bumblebee Linear and the Gold Red Pro result in diverse auditory profiles despite the shared nylon bottom. The POM and nylon combination in the Bumblebee Linear creates a more rounded sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon pairing in the Gold Red Pro yields a sharper auditory experience. Consequently, the nuances of the switching experience will shift depending on which top housing material is employed. Nonetheless, the presence of nylon in both models ensures that users can expect a satisfying base sound profile during operation, bridging a connection across their distinct auditory traits.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation forces. The Bumblebee Linear features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying it as a light switch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, where comfort is paramount. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro has a lower actuation force of 43 grams, suggesting it is even lighter, which could appeal to users who prefer less resistance when typing. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unknown, leaving some uncertainty about the overall typing experience with this switch. Therefore, while the Bumblebee Linear offers a definitive bottom out pressure that users can rely on, the Gold Red Pro might provide a softer feel, but without concrete data on its bottoming out characteristics, the comparison remains incomplete. Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro is the lighter option, while the Bumblebee Linear offers a slightly heavier actuation force coupled with a known bottom out value.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, the Bumblebee Linear measures 3.6 mm, while the Gold Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Bumblebee Linear the shorter of the two options, which can be advantageous for users seeking faster response times, particularly in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro, with its greater travel distance, may offer a more substantial feel that some users prefer for typing or gaming, as it provides a deeper key press. Therefore, those who want a responsive experience should consider the Bumblebee Linear, whereas individuals seeking a more controlled and pronounced key press might gravitate towards the Gold Red Pro.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 stands out with its bright sound profile, delivering a lively auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro features a thocky and low-pitched sound, characterized by a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" upon keypress. This makes the Gold Red Pro versatile, as its neutral tone caters well to various environments, whether for gaming, office work, or casual typing. While the Bumblebee offers a more vibrant sound, the Gold Red Pro provides a balanced, harmonious auditory experience that many users might find more accommodating in quieter settings.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is known for providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, although specific details about its tactile feedback and resistance are not provided. The TTC Gold Red Pro, on the other hand, is appreciated for its polished finish that results in reduced friction and a sleek key travel. Its mild and subtle characteristics give it a gentle resistance that can be very appealing to a wide range of users. Both switches promise a comfortable typing experience, with the Gold Red Pro emphasizing a more refined touch.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch offers a brighter sound and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the TTC Gold Red Pro caters to versatility with its thocky and low-pitched sound as well as a polished and mild feel. If you prefer a vibrant sound and smoothness, the Bumblebee may suit you better, whereas if you're seeking adaptability, the Gold Red Pro's balance makes it an excellent option for varied use cases. Regardless of your choice, both switches provide quality typing experiences, but with distinct auditory and tactile characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and the environment in which you'll be using them. If you value a light typing feel and an exceptionally smooth experience with a brighter sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear might be the right fit for you, especially in personal settings where the sound can enhance your typing enjoyment. However, if you seek versatility and a more neutral auditory presence, the TTC Gold Red Pro stands out as an adaptable option suitable for both gaming and office environments, providing a mild and polished performance that's pleasing to a wide range of users. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prefer a more pronounced sound and lighter action of the Bumblebee or the harmonious and refined versatility of the Gold Red Pro, catering well to different typing contexts and personal comfort levels.
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