Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the nuances between options like the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Durock Koala can greatly influence your typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, making it an ideal choice for those who favor a seamless typing experience combined with a bright sound profile. This switch offers a consistently linear feel without the distractions of clicks or bumps, perfect for gamers and typists seeking speed and fluidity. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch presents a balanced option for enthusiasts who enjoy a tactile sensation without overwhelming resistance. With its stepped tactility, the Koala delivers a satisfying bump at the actuation point, offering feedback that enhances typing precision without being overly loud or intrusive. While the Bumblebee Linear excels in smoothness and may appeal to those who prioritize speed, the Koala is perfect for users craving a more pronounced tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Durock Koala, a distinct contrast is present in the top housing of each switch. The Bumblebee Linear employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) material for its top housing, which is known for creating a more muted, deeper sound profile that is often described as pleasing and unique. In contrast, the Durock Koala utilizes polycarbonate, a material that produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This crispness in sound can be attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer properties, which allow for greater resonance and clarity. Thus, while both switches have a nylon bottom housing that delivers similar deeper and fuller sound characteristics, their top housings serve to create divergent auditory experiences.
Looking at the bottom housing, both switches share the same nylon material, which contributes significantly to the depth of sound produced when typing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs sound better than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory quality. This similarity allows both the Bumblebee Linear and the Durock Koala to effectively deliver a satisfying, fuller sound profile upon bottoming out. Therefore, while their top housings offer different sound characteristics, both switches rely on nylon's acoustic properties at the bottom to maintain a cohesive auditory experience.
In terms of overall performance, these differences in top housing materials mean that users may experience distinctly different sound profiles when pressing and releasing keys. The effect of the POM and polycarbonate top housings will manifest primarily when the key is released, emphasizing the unique qualities of each material. If one were to seek a blend of these auditory profiles, the bottom housing’s shared nylon composition ensures that both switches will provide a familiar depth and fullness during use, effectively balancing the sound experience derived from the variations in the top housing. As a result, although the Bumblebee Linear and Durock Koala have contrasting sound profiles due to their different top housings, the nylon bottom housing allows for a degree of similarity that can enhance the user experience across different preferences in sound aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are quite significant. The Bumblebee Linear features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer effortless key presses and extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Koala switch has an unspecified actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, signaling a more substantial tactile feedback and resistance when fully pressed down. This characteristic may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer typing experience, ideal for gaming or intense work scenarios. Overall, with the Bumblebee being lighter and the Koala leaning towards medium-heavy, users can choose according to their preference for either softer or more pronounced keystrokes in their keyboard experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch differ, with the Bumblebee having a travel distance of 3.6 mm and the Koala at 4 mm. This makes the Bumblebee the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or those who prefer quicker actuation for fast response times. On the other hand, the Koala’s 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional and substantial feel, catering to users who appreciate a noticeable depth in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for either responsiveness or a more pronounced feedback during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 features a bright and clear sound that contributes to an engaging auditory feedback during typing. This brightness offers a lively character that can enhance the overall experience, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a more cheerful tapping sound. In contrast, the Durock Koala switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound that is more subdued and balanced. The Koala's bass-heavy tone allows for a comfortable typing experience that won't be overwhelming in quieter environments, making it suitable for both home and office settings. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prefer a vibrant sound or a more neutral tone.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, which can be attributed to its linear nature. This smoothness is crucial for users who enjoy fluid key presses without any interruptions, making it ideal for rapid typing and gaming alike. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch presents an accented and polished tactile sensation, combining smoothness with a noticeable bump that provides feedback without being overwhelming. The stepped tactility of the Koala switch means that typists can feel the switch's response as they engage each keystroke, providing a satisfying balance that caters to users seeking moderate tactility.
In summary, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Durock Koala switches offer two distinct experiences in both sound and feel. If you prioritize an engaging and bright auditory profile with smooth keystrokes, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a more earthy and neutral sound alongside a tactile feedback experience that is well-balanced yet noticeably engaging, the Koala will meet your needs. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences in auditory and tactile experiences, as both switches cater to different typing styles and environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you're seeking. If you value a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke that feels light and effortless, the Bumblebee Linear is your go-to option. With its 50-gram bottom-out force, this switch is perfect for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. It's especially suited for gaming or fast-paced typing environments, where quick finger movements are essential, and the bright sound profile can be a satisfying auditory accompaniment. On the other hand, if you appreciate a satisfying tactile feedback without being overwhelmed, the Durock Koala is an excellent choice. With a bottom-out force of 67 grams, this switch offers a gentle yet pronounced bump that provides just the right amount of resistance, making it ideal for those who prefer a tactile experience while typing or gaming. Its low-pitched sound and polished feel contribute to a refined typing experience, appealing to users who appreciate a bit of character in their keystrokes. In summary, your decision should hinge on whether you prefer the smoothness of the Bumblebee Linear or the tactile satisfaction of the Koala—both have their unique strengths tailored to different typing styles and preferences.
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