Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the decision often boils down to personal preference and typing experience. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing feel, complemented by a bright sound profile that adds an engaging auditory character to your keystrokes. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a fluid typing experience and enjoy a bit of audio feedback as they type. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel caters to users seeking balanced performance with its medium-light actuation, short travel, and long pole design, making it both responsive and comfortable for extended use. Its full POM housing enhances durability while offering a subtly low-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for quieter environments. Both switches present unique advantages, whether you prefer the brightness of the Bumblebee or the snappier, low-pitched resonance of the Laurel. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Laurel switches exhibit both similarities and differences that influence their acoustic and tactile performances. Both switches utilize a POM top housing, known for its ability to produce a unique and satisfying sound profile characterized by a deeper and more muted tone. This similarity suggests that the auditory feedback when releasing keys will be comparable between the two switches since the top housing significantly influences the sound released when keys are lifted. Consequently, users can expect a pleasing auditory experience that aligns with the inherent qualities of POM, enhancing their typing or gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the two switches contrast in material, with the Bumblebee Linear utilizing nylon and the KTT Laurel featuring POM. Nylon is celebrated for its unique ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when a key is actuated. This is due to the inherent softness of nylon, which dampens sound waves, allowing for a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, POM's hardness might contribute to a sharper, more articulate sound when bottoming out, albeit potentially less rich than the nylon’s output. If the KTT Laurel's bottom housing was also made from nylon, users would receive a more muted experience similar to that of the Bumblebee Linear.
Ultimately, the interplay between the different housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Laurel creates distinct experiences that can cater to different preferences. While the POM top housings align in terms of sound characteristics, the nylon in the Bumblebee Linear's bottom housing adds depth and fullness, contrasting with the KTT Laurel’s reliance on POM which could lead to a different bottom-out sensation and sound. This variation allows users to choose a switch that aligns closely with their sound and feel preferences, where the Bumblebee Linear appeals to those who favor warm, enveloping sounds, while the KTT Laurel may cater to those who appreciate a clearer, more precise tonal response when typing.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, both exhibit very similar characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, which can have implications for user experience. The Bumblebee Linear has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Laurel features a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams, but also a similar bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that both switches require relatively light forces to actuate, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing excessive fatigue. However, the Laurel is the lighter of the two switches due to its lower actuation force, which may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless keystroke. In contrast, those who favor a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Bumblebee Linear despite the minimal difference. Ultimately, users will achieve a similar tactile feedback with both switches when bottoming out, thanks to their identical bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Laurel switch, the Bumblebee measures at 3.6 mm while the Laurel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that, although both switches provide a similar experience, especially appealing for gamers who favor quicker response times, the Bumblebee offers a marginally deeper press compared to the Laurel. For those who appreciate that added depth and feel, the Bumblebee would be the preferable choice. Conversely, the Laurel's shorter travel distance could cater to users who prioritize expediency and quick key actuation. Ultimately, while both switches are designed for responsiveness, the Bumblebee Linear switch provides a more pronounced key travel, making it the longer option in this comparison, while the KTT Laurel remains the shorter of the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 timbre, offering a lively auditory feedback that some users may find engaging and energizing during typing. In contrast, the KTT Laurel switch presents a subtly low-pitched sound profile, creating a mellow, bass-heavy tone that is less intrusive than its Bumblebee counterpart. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, users looking for a more pronounced auditory signal might prefer the Bumblebee Linear, while those who favor a softer sound may lean towards the Laurel. It's important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by external factors like the keyboard construction and keycap material, so the auditory experience may vary across different setups.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is recognized for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it ideal for users who seek a consistent, uninterrupted keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, providing a responsive touch that energizes the typing experience due to its medium-light force and long pole design. This difference in tactile feedback means that while the Bumblebee focuses on providing a smooth ride, the Laurel offers a more dynamic sensation, appealing to users who enjoy a responsive feel in their keystrokes.
In summary, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Laurel switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Bumblebee offers a bright sound and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a lively auditory and tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Laurel switch brings a subtler sound combined with a snappy and responsive touch, ideal for those who appreciate a balance of comfort and liveliness. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preference, as each provides a unique typing experience that caters to different styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Laurel linear switches, consider what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you value a smooth and bright sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice for its effortless keypresses and more pronounced auditory feedback. This switch is ideal if you enjoy a typing feel that is consistently fluid without distractions. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel might be your best bet if you're after a balance of responsiveness and comfort, thanks to its short travel and long pole design. With its low-pitched sound profile, this switch provides a mellow typing experience that may appeal to those working in quieter environments. Ultimately, both switches offer a light bottom-out force, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions, but your choice should reflect whether you prefer a livelier keystroke with brighter sounds or a snappier feel with a deeper tone.
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