Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly enhance your typing experience, offering distinct benefits depending on your preferences. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth feel and bright sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who favor a seamless typing experience without interruptions. Its linear design ensures a consistent keystroke, perfect for both typing and gaming enthusiasts alike. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch breathes new life into the clicky category by blending classic tactile feedback with modern features like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. Users who appreciate auditory feedback and a more pronounced typing experience will find the Melodic's buttery, resonant clicks invigorating. Each switch caters to different preferences: the Bumblebee captures the essence of fluidity while the Melodic offers a satisfying and nostalgic auditory sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Gateron Melodic switches present contrasting sound profiles and aesthetics due to the differences in their top housings. The Bumblebee Linear employs a POM top housing, which is renowned for its muted and deeper sound characteristics. This unique sound profile allows for a subtler typing experience that is preferred by users looking for a less aggressive auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Melodic uses a polycarbonate top housing, which imparts a higher-pitched and sharper sound signature. This is attributable to polycarbonate being a stiffer material, leading to a clearer and more resonant acoustic profile. Therefore, while both housing types contribute to the overall typing experience, the Bumblebee focuses on delivering a softer auditory delivery while the Melodic emphasizes clarity and brightness.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, we encounter a uniformity in that both the Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Melodic utilize nylon material. Nylon is celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs sound rather than amplifying it like harder plastics. This aspect of the switch design serves to create a rounder and more subdued auditory experience upon typing, which is consistent for both switches. As a classic material for switch housings, nylon ensures a level of familiarity and reliability regardless of the contrasting top housings in each switch. Therefore, while the top housings diverge in their sound profiles, the shared nylon bottom housing guarantees a consistent foundational character that balances the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the interplay between the unique characteristics of the top and bottom housings dictates the distinct sound and tactile feel of each switch. The Bumblebee Linear, with its POM top and nylon bottom, merges the muted, deep tones of the top with the fullness of the bottom, leading to an overall experience that's rich and velvety. Meanwhile, the Gateron Melodic achieves an exciting blend by pairing its crisp polycarbonate top with the comforting depth provided by the nylon bottom. Thus, despite the differences in their acoustic outputs due to the varied top housing materials, both switches enable a harmonious typing experience that can accommodate various preferences, demonstrating how nuanced combinations of housing materials can lead to diverse yet satisfying results.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear features a light actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a smooth and effortless typing experience, which is ideal for prolonged use during work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch does not have a specified actuation force, but it comes with a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a more substantial option for users who prefer a firmer feel. The Bumblebee's bottom out force is 50 grams, which is still lighter than the Gateron's bottom out force, further emphasizing the Bumblebee's suitability for those seeking a lighter touch. Overall, the Bumblebee Linear is the lighter option, while the Gateron Melodic offers a heavier response, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the Bumblebee Linear has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Melodic clicky switch features a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference in travel distance suggests distinct experiences for users; the shorter travel of the Bumblebee may appeal to gamers who prioritize quicker response times and a more immediate feel. In contrast, the Melodic's longer travel distance may be favored by those who enjoy a more deliberate keystroke and a depthier typing experience. Thus, while both switches serve their purposes, the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences for either quick responsiveness or a more solid, hearty depth in key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 is notable for its bright sound profile, which contributes to a clear auditory experience, though it leans towards a cleaner, more muted one typical of linear switches. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic delivers a resonant and crunchy sound that harks back to the classic clicky switches, featuring a higher-pitched tone that is both engaging and crisp. The Melodic's sound is enhanced by advancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a rich auditory experience that contrasts with the Bumblebee's more subdued nature. Players of the Melodic can expect an immersive and sharp sound that some may find more satisfying in terms of auditory feedback when compared to the Bumblebee's linear acoustics.
In terms of feel, the Bumblebee Linear offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience that is characteristic of linear switches, allowing for fluid key presses without any tactile bumps to interrupt the flow. This creates a typing sensation that is highly satisfying for those who prefer a seamless action. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic excels with its buttery smoothness alongside invigorating feedback. This combination results in a typing experience that balances slick keystrokes with pronounced tactile feedback, making it snappy and reactive. The distinct feel of the Melodic is perfect for users who enjoy a little more engagement in their typing experience, contrasting with the Bumblebee’s straightforward linearity.
Overall, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Gateron Melodic have compelling qualities that appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Bumblebee focuses on a smooth and bright experience, ideal for those who favor unobtrusiveness in sound and action. Conversely, the Melodic offers a rich auditory and tactile sensation that invigorates the typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you are drawn to the smoothness and clarity of the Bumblebee or the engaging feedback and sounds of the Melodic. Each provides a unique take on keyboard switches, promising satisfaction tailored to individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and intended use. If you lean towards a lighter actuation force and desire a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience, the Bumblebee Linear is a compelling option. Its 50-gram bottom out force makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions, while its bright sound profile offers an enjoyable auditory experience. This switch is particularly well-suited for tasks that require speed and fluidity, such as gaming or fast-paced typing. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more tactile and engaging experience with a bit more resistance, the Gateron Melodic might be your go-to. With its medium 60-gram actuation force and invigorating feedback, this clicky switch provides a satisfying response, ideal for those who enjoy the classic clicky sound. Additionally, the resonant and crunchy audio profile can enhance your typing experience, making it a pleasurable choice for those who revel in auditory sensations while typing. Therefore, consider what aspects of your keyboard experience matter most to you, and choose accordingly!
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