Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Gateron Ink Black V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, and two noteworthy options in the linear category are the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Ink Black V2. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a responsive feel with a lively acoustic presence. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 stands out as a long-time community favorite, known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack that offers a balance of low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy feedback, catering to users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. Both switches provide a satisfying linear feel, yet they cater to slightly different preferences—whether you prioritize a bright sound profile or a deeper, more robust auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$2.99 per 10

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches, significant differences emerge that influence their overall auditory and tactile experiences. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing characterized by its ability to produce a deeper, more muted sound profile, which many users find uniquely satisfying. The sound is richer, offering a softer auditory impression that can be appealing for those seeking a less harsh typing experience. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing that yields a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile. While both have their merits, users will likely experience markedly different sound dynamics when typing, as the Bumblebee Linear delivers a more subdued auditory result compared to the pronounced clarity of the Ink Black V2.

The bottom housing materials also propose contrasting characteristics that would affect the switches' overall auditory results. The Bumblebee Linear utilizes nylon, a classic material known for its ability to absorb sound, which contributes to a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound profile. This property stems from nylon’s softer nature, allowing it to dampen vibrations and thus offering a rounder auditory experience. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 employs the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, mirroring the pointed and higher-pitched sound profile found in its top housing. As a result, those using the Ink Black V2 switches will experience a clackier and more resonant bottom-out sound, contrasting sharply with the bass-driven tones of the Bumblebee Linear bottom housing.

Ultimately, the varied materials of the top and bottom housings in each switch significantly influence the sound and typing experience they provide. The Bumblebee Linear combines a POM top with a nylon bottom, promoting a deeper, warmer auditory feel, while the Gateron Ink Black V2’s matching INK blend top and bottom housings emphasize a brighter, crisper sound. For those interested in achieving a specific typing experience, understanding these nuances is crucial. While it's possible to obtain similar results in terms of the overall ability to type efficiently and comfortably with either switch, the auditory feedback and tactile sensations will reflect the inherent qualities of their respective materials, leading to distinct user experiences.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, we see a clear distinction in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences. The Bumblebee Linear has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable option for those who favor a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Consequently, users looking for a lighter feel should opt for the Bumblebee Linear, whereas those desiring a firmer keystroke experience would favor the Ink Black V2. Overall, these differences in force specifications highlight how the switches cater to diverse typing preferences and ergonomic needs.

Travel distance

The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Bumblebee measuring 3.6 mm and the Ink Black V2 measuring 4 mm. This makes the Bumblebee the shorter of the two options, providing a more responsive feel that may benefit gamers seeking quicker key presses. Conversely, the Ink Black V2, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, offers a deeper press that some users might prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that allows for faster response times, the Bumblebee would be the ideal choice, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the Ink Black V2.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is characterized as having a bright sound profile, which suggests that it produces a higher, more vibrant tone during key presses. This likely results in a sharp, clear auditory feedback that can make typing feel more lively. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 showcases a more complex acoustic signature with its low-pitched and bassy sounds, leading to a mellow and rich clack when activated. The addition of a chirpy note introduces a unique element, distinguishing its sound from others in the category. Thus, while the Bumblebee Linear may appeal to those who enjoy a brighter auditory experience, the Ink Black V2 caters to users who prefer a deeper, more rounded sound.

When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear's qualities are less defined, but the Ink Black V2 is celebrated for its mild and polished characteristics. The mild nature of the Ink Black V2 allows for a gentle typing experience that is accessible for most users, making it suitable for casual typing or extensive use. Its polished finish contributes to a seamless feel, minimizing friction throughout the keystroke. Without explicit descriptions of the feel for the Bumblebee Linear, it remains a bit of an unknown factor, leaving potential users to rely on its reputation of exceptional smoothness.

Considering both switches together, a newcomer choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Ink Black V2 should weigh their preferences for sound and feel carefully. If you're looking for a brighter auditory experience, the Bumblebee Linear may be your choice. However, if you prefer a rich, bassy sound with a smooth and gentle typing experience, the Ink Black V2 is likely more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit through different sensory channels.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches should be guided by your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, sound, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a lighter switch that requires less force to bottom out, the Bumblebee Linear with its 50 grams of force is an excellent choice, delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience paired with a bright sound profile. This switch is likely to suit you if you enjoy a playful and lively acoustic feedback. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more substantial feel in your keystrokes, the Ink Black V2's 70 grams of bottom-out force provides a medium-heavy resistance that can be more satisfying for some users. Its low-pitched, bassy sound complemented by a mild yet polished feel may resonate well with those who appreciate a deeper, richer auditory experience along with a gentle yet tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only your typing style but also the auditory and tactile sensations that you find most enjoyable while typing or gaming, allowing you to create a personalized keyboard experience that enhances your productivity or gaming prowess.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more