Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Kailh BCP both provide distinct linear experiences, yet they cater to different preferences that can impact your typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth operation, complemented by a bright sound profile that appeals to those seeking a seamless and unobtrusive typing feel. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP switches take inspiration from the classic Black Cherry Pies, introducing a creamy, viscous, and elastic feel that results in a unique bouncy characteristic. Their typing experience is further distinguished by a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, perfect for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, each switch offers its own advantages: the Bumblebee for its smoothness and minimal noise, and the BCP for its playful responsiveness and engaging sound. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
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-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Kailh BCP, both switches exhibit a profound similarity in the composition of their bottom housings, as both employ nylon. This common material is lauded for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile. A key characteristic of nylon is its softness, which enables it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience. Consequently, both switches promise a consistent user experience in terms of sound when the keys are pressed down, thanks to the dampening nature of the nylon bottom housing that they share.
However, a notable distinction arises in the choice of materials for the top housing—POM for the Bumblebee Linear and nylon for the BCP. The POM (Polyoxymethylene) used in the Bumblebee Linear offers a unique auditory quality characterized by a deeper, yet distinctively different, sound profile compared to the full-bodied tonalities derived from nylon. POM tends to provide a more pronounced, yet muted sound, while nylon continues to emphasize sound absorption. This differentiation means that the Bumblebee Linear will deliver a unique auditory signature during the act of key release, while the BCP captures a consistency in sound profile for both pressing and releasing actions.
In summary, while both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, contributing to a cohesive sound experience, their top housing materials yield distinctive sound characteristics. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear's POM top housing adds an intriguing layer of auditory texture, making it ideal for users who appreciate the nuances in sound profiles. In contrast, the Kailh BCP's consistent use of nylon throughout may appeal to those seeking uniformity in sound characteristics. Ultimately, the resulting auditory experience may differ, but the similar parental influence on sound absorption from the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a satisfying depth when they are engaged.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Bumblebee Linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a soft touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel. This means that users seeking a lighter typing experience should lean towards the Bumblebee Linear, while those who favor a heavier switch will likely find the BCP more appealing. Thus, if you're looking for comfort over long periods or a softer keystroke, the Bumblebee is the better option, whereas the Kailh BCP suits those who value a firmer response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, a slight difference emerges. The Bumblebee Linear boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the BCP measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. As such, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Kailh BCP offers a quicker actuation, making it more suitable for gamers seeking swift reactions. On the other hand, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear, with its longer travel distance, might be favored by those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, providing a more cushioned bottom-out experience. Ultimately, while both switches cater to distinct preferences in terms of key depth and feedback, the Bumblebee Linear is the longer of the two, while the Kailh BCP is the shorter switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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
The sound profile of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is characterized by a bright tone that contributes to a pleasing acoustic experience during typing. This bright sound can create an engaging atmosphere, especially for those who enjoy auditory feedback while they type. In contrast, the Kailh BCP linear switch exhibits a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, which adds a lively and somewhat percussive element to your keystrokes. While both switches produce distinct auditory experiences, the sound can also vary significantly based on the keyboard construction and the keycap materials used, meaning that enthusiasts should consider those components when evaluating acoustics.
When discussing the feel of these two switches, the Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth action, allowing for seamless transitions between key presses. This smoothness caters to typists who treasure fluidity and effortless operation, making it ideal for long typing sessions. Conversely, the Kailh BCP linear switch is noted for its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy feel, which may offer a different kind of tactile satisfaction. This bouncy quality can give the user a bit more resistance and feedback, promoting a dynamic typing experience that some find more engaging and enjoyable than a completely smooth action.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear focuses on delivering a smooth typing experience with a bright sound, the Kailh BCP offers a lively acoustic signature with its poppy, clacky nature paired with a distinctive bouncy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you’re looking for a joyful auditory experience with playful feedback, the BCP may appeal more to you, whereas if you seek pure smoothness with clear acoustics, the Bumblebee Linear could be the right match.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Kailh BCP linear switch depends largely on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you want from your mechanical keyboard. If you prefer a lighter touch with a remarkably smooth typing sensation, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate a more subtle sound profile. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for rapid typing without undue strain on your fingers, making it a solid option for both gamers and typists who crave speed and precision. However, if you enjoy a firmer key response accompanied by a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Kailh BCP might be more suitable for you. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams and a unique, creamy feel that brings a bounce to your keystrokes, it can enhance your overall typing experience. The BCP's poppy and clacky sound can also be quite satisfying for those who enjoy a more tactile auditory sensation with each press. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal comfort and sound preferences—whether you lean towards the smooth and light Bumblebee or the bouncy and vibrant BCP will dictate your satisfaction with your keyboard.
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