Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, individual preferences can play a significant role, particularly when comparing options like the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Keygeek Keylin, both of which are linear switches popular among typists and gamers alike. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and a bright sound profile, making it an attractive choice for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Keylin features new molds from Keygeek, delivering a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and a remarkable smoothness, appealing to those who prioritize a refined touch and sound. While both switches offer a silky feel and are designed for fluid keystrokes, their distinct acoustic qualities provide different sensory experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Keygeek Keylin both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to similar sound profiles characterized by a deeper and fuller auditory experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a muted and rounded sound when typing. This is especially apparent in the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, which enhances the overall typing experience with a satisfying, thock-like response. With both switches having nylon bottoms, users can expect a consistent auditory experience that delivers the warmth and depth that enthusiasts often seek in mechanical keyboards.
In contrast, the top housing materials of the two switches differ, with the Bumblebee Linear featuring POM (polyoxymethylene) and the Keylin utilizing nylon. The POM material in the Bumblebee's top housing is noteworthy for producing a sound profile that leans towards deeper and more muted acoustics but introduces a unique tactile quality that distinguishes it from the Keylin's nylon counterpart. While nylon’s natural properties contribute to a fuller sound, POM is known for its durability and ability to create a smooth keystroke experience. Consequently, while the bottom housings generate a similar sound profile, the difference in top housing material could influence the nuanced sound dynamics depending on whether the key is pressed down or released.
Ultimately, while both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Keygeek Keylin utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the contrasting materials of the top housings will result in varied auditory experiences when typing. The POM housing of the Bumblebee affords a unique and pleasing sound that is slightly different from the nylon used in the Keylin, particularly in terms of release sound and tactile feedback. However, since both designs prioritize sound absorption through nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a fundamentally satisfying typing experience with a deeper resonance. This shared characteristic allows enthusiasts to achieve a desired sound profile, whether they choose the Bumblebee or the Keylin based on their preference for top housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming. The Bumblebee Linear requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Keylin is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This difference indicates that the Keylin switch is generally more suited for those who favor a lighter touch, allowing for easier key presses over long durations. Conversely, the Bumblebee Linear, being heavier, may appeal to users who prefer a slightly more substantial feel during typing. However, both switches are designed to minimize strain during extended use, making them both excellent choices. Ultimately, users will find that while both switches offer similar lightness, the Keylin provides a slightly softer experience compared to the Bumblebee.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users will experience the same depth of key press when using either switch, resulting in similar tactile feedback and responsiveness. Since both switches share the same travel distance, they are likely to deliver comparable performance in terms of typing feel and actuation. Thus, there is no shorter or longer switch between the two, as they both offer the same travel distance of 3.6 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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, which contributes to an engaging auditory experience while typing. This can be particularly enjoyable for users who appreciate a more pronounced sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is known for its rich acoustics, indicating deeper and fuller sound qualities that might resonate well with those who prefer a more robust auditory feedback. Both switches’ sound characteristics can be influenced by external factors such as the type of keyboard they are paired with and the material of the keycaps used, which means users can experiment to find their preferred sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize fluid keystrokes in their typing sessions. Conversely, the Keylin linear switch also delivers exceptional smoothness, suggesting that users of both switches will enjoy a comparable tactile sensation while typing. The smoothness in both switches contributes to less finger fatigue during extended use, making them suitable for long typing sessions or gaming.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Keygeek Keylin linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences. While the Bumblebee emphasizes a bright sound profile and a very smooth feel, the Keylin presents rich acoustics along with its own high level of smoothness. Users will find similar levels of enjoyment in feel across both options, while their choice of sound will ultimately depend on personal preference and the specific setup they choose. Overall, whether one prefers the Bumblebee’s brightness or the Keylin's richness, both switches promise a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light touch and enjoy a bright sound profile alongside an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice for you. This switch is ideal if you often type for long periods or engage in fast-paced gaming, as its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams can contribute to reduced finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you desire a premium typing experience with rich acoustics and an equally smooth feel, you might lean towards the Keylin switch. With a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams, the Keylin offers the advantage of using new molds from Keygeek, enhancing its acoustic properties. Ultimately, your selection should hinge on whether the brighter sound and smoothness of the Bumblebee or the rich acoustics and premium feel of the Keylin resonate more with your typing experience.