Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Bsun Jade Rosales
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Jade Rosales switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that promise both comfort and performance. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing feel and bright sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who value auditory feedback and a seamless experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Jade Rosales switches, crafted over a year with custom housings, stems, and specialized lubrication techniques by XY Studio, offer a uniquely refined smoothness that caters to users looking for precision in their keystrokes. Both switches are linear, promising an uninterrupted pressing action, yet they cater to different preferences: the Bumblebee excites with its vibrant acoustic signature while the Jade Rosales emphasizes a perfected tactile finesse. 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
53g
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
Y3X
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Jade Rosales switches present distinct characteristics that affect their acoustic profiles and overall performance. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, known for producing a deeper, more muted sound, which is shaped by the softer nature of the thermoplastic material. In contrast, the Jade Rosales is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This difference in material not only influences sound quality but also impacts the switches' responsiveness, with the polycarbonate providing a more pronounced sound during actuation, while the POM top creates a warmer auditory experience.
Examining the bottom housings, the Bumblebee Linear utilizes a nylon material known for its classic use in switch construction. Nylon's soft plastic nature contributes to a fuller, more resonant sound profile that absorbs sound better, helping to create a rounder feel when typing. On the other hand, the Jade Rosales employs a proprietary "Custom Milky Material" for its bottom housing, which can introduce unique acoustic properties that might not be as easily categorized. While specific characteristics of the Custom Milky Material aren't detailed, its potential for achieving a distinct sound suggests a different texture and feel when bottoming out compared to the nylon of the Bumblebee Linear.
Despite their differences in material properties and resulting sound profiles, both the Bumblebee Linear and Jade Rosales switches can achieve complementing auditory results when paired in similar environments. The combination of deeper tones from the Bumblebee's POM housing and the crisper notes from the Jade Rosales' polycarbonate can produce a dynamic soundscape in a keyboard setup. The interaction between these materials allows users to fine-tune their typing experience, as the contrasting properties of the switch housings enable a broader range of tactile and auditory feedback, resulting in a versatile and satisfying performance while typing.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales Linear switch exhibit similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to register a keystroke, which contributes to a comparable typing experience in terms of responsiveness. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Bumblebee at 50 grams and the Jade Rosales at 53 grams. This distinction indicates that while both switches are relatively light in terms of actuation, the Jade Rosales offers a slightly heavier bottom out feel. As a result, the Bumblebee Linear switch is the lighter option overall, making it a suitable choice for those who favor prolonged typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the heavier bottom out force of the Jade Rosales to be more satisfying. Thus, while both switches are comparable in actuation, their bottom out forces create a distinct difference in overall weight perception when typing.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch differ slightly in their travel distances, with the Bumblebee measuring 3.6 mm and the Jade Rosales at 3.5 mm. This 0.1 mm difference means that the Bumblebee offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more pronounced tactile experience for those who prefer a bit of depth in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Jade Rosales, with its shorter travel distance, is designed for quicker actuation, appealing to gamers and users seeking faster response times. Both switches align with modern trends favoring shorter distances for enhanced performance, but the Bumblebee caters to those who prefer a more substantial feel in their key presses. Ultimately, while both switches can deliver responsiveness, the Bumblebee Linear is best for users wanting a deeper experience, whereas the Jade Rosales may suit those looking for a snappier action.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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 is characterized by a bright sound profile that adds an engaging auditory element to the typing experience, enhancing feedback without being overly jarring. The Bsun Jade Rosales switch, while less specific in sound characteristics, is designed for refined acoustics alongside its smooth typing experience. Both switches, however, will ultimately be influenced by the choice of keyboard plate and keycaps, which can significantly alter the overall sound produced when typing.
When considering feel, both the Bumblebee Linear and the Jade Rosales switches excel in providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear is notable for its seamless key presses, making it a joy to type on for extended periods. Similarly, the Jade Rosales switches have also been meticulously refined to offer that same level of smoothness, and their custom housing and stems contribute to a similarly luxurious tactile sensation. Therefore, users can expect a delightful and fluid typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switches offer distinct benefits, particularly with their smooth feel during typing. While the Bumblebee switch stands out with its bright sound profile, the Jade Rosales’ focus on refinement suggests a more tailored acoustic experience. Though there may be slight differences, users can anticipate a satisfying typing experience from either option, bolstered by the right choice of keyboard build and keycap selection.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a switch that is lighter and offers a distinctly brighter sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is likely your best bet. Its 50 grams bottom-out force makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or for those who enjoy rapid key presses without much resistance. On the other hand, if you prioritize a slightly heavier feel along with a thoroughly refined smoothness, the Jade Rosales linear switch, with its 53 grams bottom-out force, is well-suited to your needs. The meticulous craftsmanship behind these switches promises a sublime tactile experience, perfect for both gaming and general usage. Therefore, consider whether you favor a lighter switch with a brighter sound or a medium-light switch that boasts exceptional refinement in both sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent performance, but aligning them with your typing style will ensure a satisfying experience.
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