Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice can significantly impact your typing experience, especially between two popular options: the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, both linear switches known for their distinctive characteristics. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, complemented by a bright sound profile that subtly enhances the auditory aspect of typing without being overwhelming. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro stands out for its solid and responsive keystrokes, providing a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out with resonant clacks that cater to users who seek tactile feedback. While both switches offer linear performance, the Bumblebee is all about smoothness and quiet operation, whereas the Matcha Green Pro emphasizes a more pronounced acoustics and 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, one notable distinction lies in their top housing. The Bumblebee Linear utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. This unique sound is characterized by its pleasing tonal quality, making it ideal for users who appreciate a less pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which delivers a sharper and more resonant sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows it to create a crisper auditory experience, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Despite the differences in the materials of the top housing, both switches share the same housing material for their bottoms: nylon. This consistency means that both switches will elicit a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This shared characteristic of nylon allows both the Bumblebee Linear and the V3 Matcha Green Pro to maintain a duller and rounder auditory experience during key presses. While the top housings influence the sound produced upon release, the nylon bottom housing’s effect on the bottom-out sound remains a unifying trait that enhances the overall typing experience for users who favor a richer auditory feedback.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials results in varied sound profiles that cater to user preferences. The Bumblebee Linear's POM top gives it a more muted sound upon key release, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top generates a brighter sound. However, the nylon bottoms in both switches ensure a consistent output in terms of sound quality, offering a deep richness that is a hallmark of both designs. By understanding these differences and similarities, users can better assess which switch aligns with their auditory and tactile preferences, ensuring satisfaction with their keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switches, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a softer touch for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches have a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. While both switches provide distinct tactile experiences, the Bumblebee is ideal for those seeking a more effortless keystroke, whereas the V3 Matcha Green Pro caters to users who appreciate a higher resistance and a firmer push. Ultimately, the choice between a lighter or heavier switch depends on personal preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, we find a notable difference. The Bumblebee Linear has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This indicates that if you prefer a switch that feels more responsive and has a quicker actuation, the shorter Bumblebee Linear may be the better choice. Conversely, if you enjoy a deeper keystroke that provides a more substantial feedback, the V3 Matcha Green Pro would be preferable due to its longer travel distance. In summary, those who favor rapid response times may opt for the Bumblebee Linear, while those who appreciate a more pronounced feel may lean towards the V3 Matcha Green Pro.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is noted for its bright sound profile, providing a clear auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a distinct clacky and resonant sound. The clackiness adds a sharp, snappy quality to each keystroke, while the resonant properties contribute to a high-pitched and immersive auditory experience. These sound characteristics make the Matcha Green Pro a lively choice, perfect for users who appreciate engaging auditory feedback in their typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, those preferring the Bumblebee may still capture an enjoyable sound experience, although with a somewhat different tonal quality.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear provides a notably smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid key presses without any tactile interruptions. Conversely, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro excels in delivering a more dynamic feel characterized by bounciness and responsiveness; users will experience a satisfying recoil when the keys are pressed. The Matcha switch's creamy, polished, and silky attributes further contribute to an exceptionally refined typing sensation. This contrast indicates that while the Bumblebee Linear is tailored for users favoring a straightforward smoothness, the Matcha Green Pro is ideal for those who appreciate a bit of lively feedback intertwined with smoothness.
In summary, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. The Bumblebee Linear suits those who prioritize a smooth typing experience and a bright sound, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a more tactile experience enhanced by resonant auditory feedback. Each switch presents unique qualities that can cater to a range of users, allowing newcomers to select based on their desired auditory and tactile experiences. If you're torn between the two, consider what you value most: the smooth simplicity of the Bumblebee or the dynamic, engaging feedback of the Matcha Green Pro.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Bumblebee Linear, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, may be the ideal fit. This switch provides an exceptionally smooth experience and a bright sound profile, making it suitable for users who appreciate a quieter ambiance while still enjoying the tactile feedback of their keystrokes. Alternatively, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, featuring a 63-gram bottom-out force, could be your best choice. Its bouncy and creamy feel, coupled with a sharp, clacky sound, caters well to those who enjoy a responsive and gratifying typing sensation, whether for gaming or typing tasks. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your preferences for sound, feel, and the pressure you enjoy when typing, ensuring a more satisfying and enjoyable experience as you engage with your mechanical keyboard.
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