Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Hyacinth offer distinct experiences, even within the realm of linear switches. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and a bright sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize auditory feedback alongside performance. In contrast, the KTT Hyacinth stands out with its unique 3.5mm travel distance, intentionally designed to minimize the jarring sensation of bottoming out, which many typists find uncomfortable. Additionally, the Hyacinth’s single-stage elongated spring offers a more consistent force curve, catering to users who seek a refined balance between tactile feedback and comfort. While both switches provide a linear feel, the Bumblebee emphasizes sound and smoothness, whereas the Hyacinth focuses on ergonomic travel and consistent performance. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
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 spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Hyacinth, distinct differences in their sound profiles emerge due to the choice of top housing. The Bumblebee Linear utilizes a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which contributes to a sound that is deeper and relatively muted. This material is known for creating an incredibly pleasing sound, with its unique acoustic properties allowing for a softer auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Hyacinth features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature enhances resonance and clarity, often producing a more explicit auditory feedback. Therefore, while both switches can produce satisfying sound experiences, the Bumblebee Linear leans toward a more subdued quality, while the Hyacinth presents a brighter, more pronounced auditory effect.
Both switches, regardless of their differing top housings, utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is celebrated as a classic switch housing material due to its sound absorption properties; it tends to soften the auditory feedback as it is a relatively softer plastic. Both the Bumblebee Linear and the Hyacinth will therefore exhibit a similar sound characteristic owing to the nylon bottom, providing a duller and rounder sound. This shared material ensures that while their top sound profiles vary, the foundational acoustic experience remains consistent across both switches.
In terms of the overall functionality and auditory experience, the impact of the top and bottom housing materials diverges in how they influence the sound produced when typing. The bottom nylon housing significantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the overall depth when the key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing, whether it is POM or polycarbonate, largely influences the sound that resonates as you release the key. This division in functionality means that despite their differing top housing materials, both the Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Hyacinth can deliver satisfying and complex sonic experiences, appealing to users with diverse preferences in keyboard acoustics.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth Linear switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a similar typing experience that can facilitate extended use without fatigue, making them suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. However, their bottom out forces differ, with the Bumblebee Linear at 50 grams and the Hyacinth at 56 grams. This means that while both switches trigger with the same force, the Hyacinth requires a slightly heavier push to reach the bottom, providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger tactile response. Consequently, the Bumblebee Linear can be considered the lighter option overall, while the Hyacinth offers a heavier bottom out experience, catering to users who appreciate a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Bumblebee Linear the better choice for those who prefer a switch with a bit more depth, which can provide a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Hyacinth, being 0.1 mm shorter, may cater to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances are often favored for rapid keystrokes. Both switches offer a more modern approach with their relatively shorter distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable options for those wanting less depth in their keypresses. Ultimately, each switch serves different preferences, with the Bumblebee providing a fuller experience and the Hyacinth maximizing responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 KTT Hyacinth linear switches, the Bumblebee is recognized for its bright sound profile, which can deliver an engaging auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Hyacinth switch is deemed neutral, offering a moderate sound that strikes a balance suitable for both beginner and experienced users. This neutrality makes the Hyacinth versatile for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. Nonetheless, it's essential to note that the overall sound of both switches may vary depending on the board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Bumblebee Linear provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience, contributing to a seamless interaction with the keyboard. The Hyacinth, by contrast, is characterized as silky, enhancing the smoothness while minimizing resistance during key presses and releases. Additionally, the Hyacinth offers a subtle feel with gentle resistance, which feels light but not overly feathery, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound signature. While both switches prioritize smooth typing, the Hyacinth's unique design elements—like its reduced travel distance—enhance user comfort even further.
In conclusion, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and KTT Hyacinth linear switches are strong contenders for those seeking smooth, linear typing experiences. The Bumblebee offers a bright sound that can be invigorating, while the Hyacinth's neutral sound profile allows for versatility in different settings. Feel-wise, both switches emphasize smoothness but diverge subtly in design and resistance characteristics, with the Hyacinth leaning towards gentle feedback and increased user comfort. Ultimately, you can expect complementary performances from both switches, yet choosing either will depend on personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Hyacinth linear switches, it's important to consider your typing preferences and how you plan to use your keyboard. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is the ideal choice for you. It's especially suited for fast typists or gamers who value quick actuation without the heaviness that might slow them down. On the other hand, if you're someone who seeks a balanced typing feel with a bit more resistance, the KTT Hyacinth could be your go-to option. Its medium-light bottom-out force and unique design with a shorter travel distance ensure you experience a comfortable balance between feedback and auditory experience, making it great for long typing sessions, particularly in shared spaces where a subtler sound signature is preferred. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal comfort and typing style—whether you are drawn to the bright allure of the Bumblebee or the subtle elegance of the Hyacinth will shape your overall experience.
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