Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Hibiscus offer distinct yet appealing characteristics for various typing preferences. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a seamless keystroke and enjoy an auditory response. Meanwhile, the HMX Hibiscus sets itself apart with its ultra-light actuation force, which is lighter than 80% of all switches, while also providing a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that appeals to gamers and typists alike seeking an engaging tactile feedback. While both switches boast linear actuation for a consistent feel, their unique auditory experiences and actuation forces cater to different user preferences. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T3
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 Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Hibiscus switches utilize different materials for their top housings, yet they share similarities in their bottom housing composition. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing while the Hibiscus is made of nylon, a well-established material in the switch community. POM is known for producing a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper end and has a muted quality. This differs from the Hibiscus's nylon top housing, which is characterized by its ability to generate a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer composition. However, the difference in top housing materials suggests that the overall sound profile may vary, with the Bumblebee producing a more distinct sound while typing on it, contrasted against the Hibiscus's softer resonance.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, they both utilize nylon, a classic material recognized for its acoustic properties and sound absorption capabilities. This shared bottom housing material ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon’s softer plastic structure contributes to a rounder sound. Consequently, regardless of the differences in their top housings, both switches will elicit a similar auditory experience when bottoming out, thanks to the consistent use of nylon in their lower sections. This commitment to using the same bottom housing material means that they will feel comparably cohesive during typing, resulting in a consistent bottom-out experience.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Hibiscus differ in their top housing materials—POM versus nylon—their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a unifying sound experience that lends itself to a richer auditory profile upon each key press. The contrasting materials influence the individual characteristics of each switch; the Bumblebee triggers a distinct and more nuanced sound due to its harder top housing, while the Hibiscus’s softer top housing presents a more muted effect. Ultimately, this blend of materials between the two switches illustrates how specific housing materials impact key press performance and sound, while still maintaining a similar feel at the point of bottom-out due to their common nylon bottom.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus Linear switch, both exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. The Bumblebee has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Hibiscus has slightly lighter metrics with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Hibiscus switch offers a lighter push feel, potentially allowing for less fatigue during extended use, whereas the Bumblebee may provide a slightly more substantial feel due to its heavier forces. Overall, the Hibiscus is the lighter option, making it preferable for those who value ease of typing, while the Bumblebee is better suited for those who favor a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, the Bumblebee features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Hibiscus has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Bumblebee switch allows for a more pronounced key press, appealing to users who appreciate a deeper feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Hibiscus, with its shorter travel distance, may cater to those who favor the quicker response times typically sought by gamers, allowing for faster actuation. While both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances—common in modern designs—the Bumblebee Linear offers a bit more depth, making it the longer travel switch in this comparison.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 produces a bright sound profile that complements its smooth operation, offering a sound that is pleasing and unobtrusive during typing. The HMX Hibiscus, on the other hand, is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. This distinction suggests that while both switches provide engaging auditory experiences, the Hibiscus leans more toward an entertaining and pronounced sound, which some users might find more enjoyable, especially in a casual or gaming context.
When considering feel, the Bumblebee Linear boasts an exceptionally smooth typing experience that many users appreciate for long typing sessions or gaming. The HMX Hibiscus also emphasizes smoothness but enhances it with an ultra-light actuation force, making it feel even more effortless to type on. This lighter touch may appeal to users who enjoy rapid keystrokes and might find the Hibiscus more forgiving for fast typists compared to the Bumblebee Linear.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Hibiscus switches excel in providing a smooth typing experience, but they diverge in their sound characteristics and actuation force. The Bumblebee is known for its bright sound profile and solid smoothness, while the Hibiscus offers a clackier sound and a lighter touch. Depending on personal preference, both switches have their merits and can deliver excellent performance. Users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either option, but the choice between them will ultimately hinge on whether one values sound liveliness or a lighter actuation more highly.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Hibiscus linear switches ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and what experience you're seeking from your mechanical keyboard. If you prioritize a slightly lighter actuation and a smooth, bright sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear might be your ideal choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force provides a comfortable typing experience while ensuring every keystroke feels effortless. On the other hand, if you lean towards an ultra-light actuation and enjoy a more distinctive sound signature with a clacky, poppy, and crispy feel, the HMX Hibiscus could be the better fit for you. With a bottom-out force of 48 grams, this switch offers a uniquely smooth experience that sets it apart as a rare gem among linear options. Consider your typing style, whether you value a quieter or more pronounced auditory feedback, and whether you prefer a subtle or vibrant tactile sensation. In the end, both switches bring their own merits to the table, so reflect on your needs to make the most informed decision.
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