Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Durock Lupine

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing various options to match their typing preferences. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch offers a notably smooth typing experience coupled with a bright sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate a seamless keystroke and a bit of auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch stands out with its unique two-stage long springs, providing not only a consistent weight distribution while typing but also a powerful upward rebound that enhances the tactile sensation. Additionally, the Lupine features a classic clacky sound profile, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced noise during their typing sessions. While both switches boast linear characteristics, they cater to different aspects of user experience — the Bumblebee focuses on smoothness and sound, while the Lupine emphasizes weight distribution and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

Durock Lupine Linear

$2.99 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Durock Lupine switches showcase distinctive differences in their top housing materials, contributing to a notable variance in sound profiles. The Bumblebee Linear is designed with a POM top housing, which is known for its unique sound characteristics—specifically a deeper and more muted audio quality. This choice of material allows for a pleasant auditory experience that is less piercing to the ear. In contrast, the Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic, particularly for setups that utilize RGB lighting, as it creates a more vibrant light effect. Consequently, while both switches may perform effectively within key typing scenarios, the auditory output will be distinctly different, with the Bumblebee favoring a rounded sound and the Lupine offering a brighter tone.

Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which equalizes some aspects of performance between the two models. As a traditional housing material, nylon induces a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer nature, effectively absorbing sound waves and minimizing resonance. As such, both the Bumblebee Linear and Durock Lupine elicit a similar auditory experience during actuation, as both utilize the same material that dampens sound and creates a solid, grounded feel when bottoming out. This similarity in bottom housing helps balance the overall acoustics of each switch, leading to a consistent typing experience across both models when considering the bottom-out sound.

In summary, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Durock Lupine switches share the same nylon bottom housing, their top housings set them apart. The POM top of the Bumblebee emphasizes a muted and deep sound profile, while the polycarbonate top of the Lupine provides a crisper and more resonant pitch, particularly accentuated by its translucency. This divergence means that while the switches may share a more substantial auditory impact from the bottom housing, the sound characteristics will diverge upon release, each offering a unique experience. Ultimately, the user's preference for sound profile and visual effects will guide their choice between these two switches, despite their common foundation in nylon.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to varying user preferences. The Bumblebee Linear switch has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Lupine switch does not provide a specified actuation force, but its bottom out force is measured at a heavier 62 grams, indicating a more substantial feel when fully pressed. Due to the unknown actuation force of the Lupine switch, it is difficult to fully assess its typing experience in comparison to the Bumblebee Linear. However, given that the Bumblebee is lighter overall, it may be better suited for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Lupine may appeal to those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback. Thus, users should consider their typing preferences to choose between the lighter Bumblebee for ease of use and the potentially heftier Lupine for a more solid typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, we find some interesting distinctions. The Bumblebee Linear has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lupine measures slightly longer at 3.7 mm. This means that the Bumblebee offers a more responsive experience, which could be advantageous for gamers seeking quick key registration. On the other hand, the Lupine's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, providing a sense of depth that some users find more comfortable. Therefore, if you're looking for quicker response times, the Bumblebee Linear would be the preferable choice, whereas if you favor a more pronounced keypress, the Lupine might be better suited to your needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch delivers a bright sound profile, making it enjoyable for users who appreciate a more lively auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch is characterized by a classic clacky sound that can resonate well in an office or home environment, appealing to those who prefer a more traditional keyboard acoustics. With the Bumblebee's bright tones contrasted against the Lupine's clack, you have two distinct auditory experiences, each serving different preferences. However, the perceived sound can be influenced by external factors such as board material and keycap choice, which might lead to more similarity between the two in different setups.

Regarding feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, though the specific characteristics of that feel are not elaborated. Conversely, the Durock Lupine's two-stage long springs provide consistent weight distribution when pressed, along with a powerful upward movement upon release. This combination results in a mild yet polished typing experience, where users can expect a gentle yet refined sensation as they type. While Bumblebee's smoothness suggests ease, the Lupine's spring design introduces an element of dynamic response that could enhance engagement when typing.

In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Durock Lupine linear switches provide appealing options for newcomers interested in linear switches. The Bumblebee's bright sound and smooth typing experience make it inviting for those seeking a more spirited and fluid feel, while the Lupine caters to users desiring a controlled sound and a balanced typing resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches could revolve around personal sound preference and the kind of tactile feedback one is looking for, as both switches promise high quality but shine in different areas.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Durock Lupine Linear switches, consider what type of typing experience you prefer. If you lean towards a lighter feel with a bottom-out force of 50 grams and enjoy a smooth and engaging typing experience, you would benefit from the Bumblebee Linear. Its bright sound profile adds an element of enjoyment, making it an ideal choice for casual use, gaming, or if you simply want something that feels effortless under your fingertips. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial keystroke with a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, the Lupine switch might suit you better. Its unique two-stage springs provide a balanced weight distribution and a powerful rebound that many typists find enjoyable. The Lupine's neutral and high-pitched sound can easily adapt to different environments, whether at the office or home. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter, smoother typing experience or a more dynamic and powerful feel in your key presses.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Durock Lupine Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more