Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the nuances between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Jammy can significantly impact your typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth feel and bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a more tactile auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX Jammy switch features a softer, glittery nylon housing, delivering a muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience ideal for those who prioritize a quieter workspace. Both switches fall into the linear category, which means they provide a direct actuation without any tactile bump, appealing to users who favor swift and uninterrupted keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Jammy, we observe a striking contrast in their top housing compositions. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is noted for generating a unique sound profile that leans toward the deeper and more muted spectrum. This material’s inherent properties facilitate a distinctive auditory experience during typing, enabling users to enjoy a more subdued response when pressing the keys. In contrast, the HMX Jammy utilizes a nylon top housing, a traditional choice known for producing a similarly deep and fuller sound profile. While both materials achieve a deeper sound, the POM in the Bumblebee Linear tends to create a more pronounced muting effect, whereas the nylon of the Jammy absorbs sound differently, contributing to a rounder auditory experience.
Looking at the bottom housing, both switches share a common factor as they both incorporate nylon. The nylon bottom in the Bumblebee Linear mirrors the characteristics of the Jammy’s bottom housing, resulting in a deeper sound profile and a duller feel when the keys are bottomed out. Both housing materials excel in absorbing sound, allowing for a richer auditory experience with a full-bodied resonance as users type. The shared nylon material across both models facilitates similar results in terms of acoustic performance for the bottom housing, making each switch adept at creating a satisfying typing experience irrespective of the top housing material differences.
Ultimately, while the Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Jammy diverge in their top housing materials—POM versus nylon—their compatibility in bottom housing material leads to a comparable aural effect and typing sensation. With the POM top housing lending a unique sound character to the Bumblebee Linear and the nylon top of the Jammy ensuring a soft and rounded auditory experience, each switch capitalizes on its respective materials. Nevertheless, the common nylon bottom housing ensures that both models provide a similar depth of sound and overall rich acoustic texture when typing, showcasing how diverse material choices can still yield gratifying results in a keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to distinct user preferences. The Bumblebee Linear features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Jammy switch has a heavier actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. As such, the Bumblebee Linear is the lighter option, while the Jammy is the heavier one. These differences in force mean that users of the Bumblebee will experience less strain over long periods, whereas Jammy users might appreciate the tactile feedback and resistance that come with a heavier switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This indicates that the Bumblebee switch is marginally shorter, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times due to the reduced distance needed for actuation. Conversely, the Jammy switch’s longer travel distance allows for a more pronounced feel during key presses, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. With a difference of just 0.1 mm, both switches provide a relatively subtle variation in travel distance; nonetheless, if responsiveness is a priority, the Bumblebee could be the better choice, while the Jammy may suit those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jammy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jammy 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 offers a bright audio profile that can be quite appealing, providing an engaging auditory feedback during typing. This quality contributes to an overall lively experience, making each keystroke feel dynamic. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch delivers a more muted sound, presenting a softer acoustic presence that some typists may find more pleasant for prolonged use or a quieter environment. It's important to keep in mind that the sound produced can also vary based on the keyboard's construction and the keycap material used, potentially resulting in similar auditory outcomes depending on individual setups.
When analyzing the feel of both switches, the Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for swift keystrokes without any noticeable friction or resistance, which is ideal for fast typists. In contrast, the Jammy linear switch offers a medium weight that feels satisfaction-driven; its softer nylon housing provides a comforting feedback that adds to the overall typing pleasure while still retaining a decent level of responsiveness. Although both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, their differing weights and housing materials lead to distinct tactile sensations.
In conclusion, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Jammy linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Bumblebee Linear switch shines with its bright sound and incredibly smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a vibrant typing experience. Conversely, the Jammy switch creates a more subdued auditory environment and combines its soft, satisfying feel with a medium weight that underlines a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, your decision may hinge on whether you prefer a lively or a more muted sound and how much emphasis you place on the switch's tactile characteristics.
Conclusion
To summarize, choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Jammy Linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. If you favor a light, smooth typing experience with a brighter sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear would likely be your best option. These switches, with their 50 grams bottom-out force, are ideal for fast typists or gamers who appreciate the ease of pressing down keys without much resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more medium resistance while typing, the Jammy switch, which has a bottom-out force of 63 grams, might be better suited for your needs. The Jammy’s nylon housing offers a more muted sound and a deeper, yet equally satisfying feel, making it a wonderful choice for those who appreciate a subtle auditory feedback and a more tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize a lively and light touch or a more grounded and solid typing experience.
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