Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Huano Grape Orange
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Grape Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Grape Orange, it’s essential to consider the unique qualities each switch brings to the table. The Bumblebee Linear stands out for its remarkably smooth typing experience and a bright sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback during their typing sessions. In contrast, the Grape Orange switches are designed for ultimate comfort, featuring an ultra-low actuation force of just 40g, which makes them ideal for long typing stretches without fatigue. While the Bumblebee may be favored for its satisfying tactile feedback, the Grape Orange excels in ease of use and effortless keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that meets your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Grape Orange switches feature markedly different materials for their top housings, which plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile of each switch. The Bumblebee Linear utilizes Polyoxymethylene (POM), known for producing a deeper and more muted sound. This material's unique acoustic properties allow it to create a distinctive soundscape that caters to those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the Grape Orange boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for its stiffer composition. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is crisper and more resonant. Therefore, while both switches offer unique auditory experiences, the Bumblebee Linear leans towards a more rounded sound, whereas the Grape Orange delivers a more pronounced and vibrant tone.
Both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which contributes similarly to the overall sound profile they produce. Nylon's inherent characteristics create a fuller and deeper sound because it effectively absorbs more vibrations than harder materials like polycarbonate and POM. This shared feature means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, users can expect a deeper and rounder sound from the bottom housing of both switches. The presence of nylon enhances the tactile feedback and alters the bottom-out sound, providing a cohesive experience across the two different switches, as they share this classic material.
The interaction of the top and bottom housings correlates significantly with the overall sound dynamics experienced when using the switches. For both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Grape Orange, the unique contributions of their respective top housings can be experienced when releasing the keys, with differences noted in sound profile and texture. The Bumblebee Linear’s muted profile contrasts with the Grape Orange's sharpness during this phase, yet the presence of nylon in both bottom housings means that users will still experience a similar fullness at the actuation point. Consequently, while the switches diverge in sound characteristics due to their top housings, they offer a complementary acoustic experience anchored by their shared nylon bottom, making both options appealing for different auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Grape Orange linear switches, both exhibit notable lightness 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, while the Grape Orange has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams but matches the Bumblebee’s bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Grape Orange the lighter option between the two, as its initial keystroke requires less force. Although both switches have the same bottom out force, users may experience a different typing sensation, with the Grape Orange providing an easier initial press, making it potentially more suitable for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming marathons. Overall, both switches cater to a preference for lighter forces, but the Grape Orange edges out in providing a lighter actuation experience.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience an identical distance from the top to the bottom, providing a consistent key feel across both options. As a result, if you're looking for a smooth keypress experience, you can expect similar results from these two linear switches, making them closely comparable in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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 is characterized by its bright sound profile, which adds an auditory element to the typing experience. This brightness can create an engaging aural environment, enhancing the overall enjoyment of typing. In contrast, the Huano Grape Orange switch does not have a specified sound profile; however, it's important to note that the sound of any mechanical switch is influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used. As such, even though the Grape Orange does not have a defined audio quality, the combination of board materials and design will play a crucial role in determining how it sounds in practice.
Regarding feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is recognized for providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes without any friction, which can lead to a more satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange switch is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force of just 40g. This means that the Grape Orange requires less effort to press than typical switches, making it an excellent choice for those who engage in extended typing sessions. While both switches offer distinct advantages—smoothness in the Bumblebee and lightness in the Grape Orange—they cater to slightly different preferences in typing dynamics.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Huano Grape Orange switches deliver unique experiences grounded in their design characteristics. The Bumblebee excels in providing a bright sound coupled with a smooth feel, making it ideal for users who enjoy auditory feedback and seamless keystrokes. Conversely, the Grape Orange focuses on effortless typing with its light actuation force, catering to those who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions. While they offer different qualities, the choice ultimately depends on the individual's preferences for sound and feel, as both can yield satisfying typing experiences within their respective strengths.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Grape Orange linear switches, it ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and what you're looking for in a mechanical keyboard experience. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience and enjoy a brighter sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear switch would be the better choice for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force strikes a balance between providing a satisfying feel without requiring too much effort per keystroke. On the other hand, if you anticipate spending long hours typing and prefer a feather-light touch, the Grape Orange switch, with its ultra-low 40g actuation force, will likely serve you best. Its light and effortless activation not only fosters a comfortable experience over extended periods but also enhances speed and efficiency. The subtle differences in feel and sound between the two can greatly influence your preference; thus, it’s important to consider how each switch aligns with your individual typing style. In short, weigh the tactile experience, desired sound, and your specific typing habits to decide which switch will elevate your keyboard experience the most.