Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options often come to the forefront: the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Mars. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and a bright sound profile, making it an attractive choice for both gamers and typists seeking a pleasing auditory feedback without the tactile bump. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars switches shine through their unique design, which combines a POK stem with a housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM, resulting in a distinct feel and durability that appeals to those who prioritize longevity and performance. While both switches offer a linear experience, which typically translates to a quieter keyboard with a consistent key press from top to bottom, their individual characteristics cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Mars key switches present an interesting study in contrasts. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, which is known for producing a distinctly unique sound profile that tends to be deeper and more muted. This characteristic makes it particularly appealing for users seeking a softer auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Gateron Mars utilizes a nylon top housing that is also celebrated for its deeper sound but offers a fuller acoustic resonance due to nylon's softer nature. This material choice lends itself to a sound that is not only rounded but dampens vibrations effectively, highlighting the different approaches these two switches take to enhance user experience.
However, the lower portions of the switches reveal another layer of comparison. The Bumblebee Linear’s nylon bottom housing aligns with the classic aesthetic of traditional switches, echoing the fuller sound profile found in its top housing. This synergy between the top and bottom ensures a cohesive auditory experience. Conversely, the Gateron Mars opts for a POM bottom housing, which emphasizes a pleasing sound that is muted and deep. Here, the unique qualities of POM enhance the bottom-out experience, contrasting with the nylon's softer characteristics. The differences in material choice for the bottom housing can significantly influence the overall feel and performance of each switch, showcasing the meticulous design philosophies behind each product.
By exploring the relationship between these switch materials, we can anticipate that users may achieve similar auditory results despite the contrasting materials used in the top and bottom housings of each switch. For instance, while the Bumblebee Linear has a muted sound profile attributed to its POM top combined with nylon on the bottom, the Gateron Mars potentially delivers a comparable auditory experience through its nylon top and POM bottom. The interaction between the differing materials allows for an intriguing balance wherein the bottom housing can dampen sounds while the top housing shapes the key release tone. Ultimately, it's the interplay of these materials that defines the user experience, creating nuanced sounds that enthusiasts can appreciate regardless of which switch they choose.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch both share the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that both switches require the same amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke. This similarity may appeal to users who enjoy a lighter typing experience, making them suitable for extended use in work or gaming scenarios. However, while the Bumblebee Linear has a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a tangible sensation when the keys are fully pressed down, the Gateron Mars's bottom out force is unknown, leaving a gap in understanding how it feels when bottoming out. As a result, the Bumblebee Linear can be considered a heavier option due to its bottom out force, offering a more substantial feel compared to what the Mars switch might provide. Overall, users seeking a lighter actuation with defined feedback might lean towards the Bumblebee Linear, while the lack of bottom out information for the Mars switch leaves its general tactile experience open to interpretation.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch both boast a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this respect. This similarity means that users can expect the same tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of either switch, resulting in comparable responsiveness and feel during typing or gaming. Since both switches feature the same travel distance, those looking for consistency in performance across different switch brands can rest assured that they will achieve similar results with either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 known to be bright, which can produce a lively auditory feedback during typing. This characteristic gives the experience an engaging quality, making each keystroke feel more dynamic. On the other hand, while the Gateron Mars switch specifics on sound were not provided, Gateron switches typically offer a smooth sound that complements their tactile nature. It’s important to remember that the final sound will also depend on other factors like the keyboard build and keycap material, which could affect how both switches resonate.
When considering the feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is well-regarded for its exceptionally smooth typing experience. This smoothness clarifies minimal resistance and friction, allowing for seamless keystrokes that many typists appreciate. The Mars switch, featuring a unique design with a POK stem, likely offers its own pleasurable typing feel, though specific details are not available. Given the characteristics of Gateron switches, it can be expected that the Mars switch will provide a satisfying and smooth experience as well, particularly due to their well-engineered design.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Gateron Mars linear switches offer compelling attributes that cater to users seeking a smooth linear typing experience. While the Bumblebee is notable for its bright sound, the Mars switch holds potential with its unique materials and innovative design. Depending on your keyboard setup, either choice can provide satisfying results, with the Bumblebee ensuring an engaging sound and the Mars likely delivering a pleasing feel as well.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Mars linear switches, your choice should hinge on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a lighter actuation force and are looking for a smooth typing experience with a brighter sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent option. Its 50-gram bottom-out force ensures that you can type for extended periods without fatigue, making it a great choice for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, if you're intrigued by innovative designs and materials, the Gateron Mars may be a better fit for you. While specific sound and feel characteristics weren't provided, the Mars switches, with their POK stem and nylon-POM housing, promise a unique and potentially different typing experience. Ultimately, consider what aspects are most important to you: the softer touch and sound of the Bumblebee Linear or the novelty and construction of the Gateron Mars. Your typing preferences should guide you to the switch that best matches your mechanical keyboard experience.
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