Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the PH Studio Milk Tea can greatly influence your typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, combined with a bright sound profile that adds a layer of auditory feedback, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a lively typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch offers a unique auditory experience with its high-pitched yet muted sound, striking a subtle balance that caters to users who prefer a more nuanced auditory presence. Moreover, the Milk Tea's use of Ly as the stem material enhances typing ease, ensuring every keystroke feels effortless and polished. While both switches belong to the linear category and prioritize smooth keystrokes, their distinctive sounds and materials set them apart. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches, it is evident that both utilize POM (Polyoxymethylene) for the top housing. The characteristics attributed to this material suggest that both switches will produce an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile. Specifically, the sound quality is described as relatively deeper and muted, which aligns perfectly for users seeking a softer auditory experience. This similarity in top housing material indicates that both switches will exhibit comparable sonic characteristics in terms of how the sound is produced during the key release, enriching the overall typing experience.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials differ significantly between the two switches. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear incorporates nylon, a material known for its softer quality, which contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound waves, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience when bottoming out. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea features a POM bottom housing, which, while also producing a deeper sound, may not achieve the same depth and richness attributed to the nylon base due to the inherently harder nature of POM. Consequently, while both switches may provide a deep profile, the Bumblebee Linear is likely to deliver a fuller sound during key presses, whereas the Milk Tea may yield a sharper sound due to its POM bottom.
Ultimately, although the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and PH Studio Milk Tea switches share a common material for the top housing, their bottom housing materials lead to distinct outcomes in tactile and auditory feedback. Users who prioritize a muted and softer sound may favor the Bumblebee Linear, whereas those seeking a balanced but slightly sharper experience might prefer the Milk Tea. Despite these differences, the shared POM material in the top housing guarantees that both switches provide a notable consistency in sound during key release, ensuring a satisfying typing experience in both cases.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch to the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, both switches are categorized as light options, but they differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear requires an actuation force of 45 grams and bottoms out at 50 grams, while the Milk Tea switch has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. This means that the Milk Tea switch is the lighter option overall, making it potentially more suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Bumblebee Linear offers a slightly heavier feel, which might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches deliver a light typing experience, users can expect a more effortless keystroke with the Milk Tea, compared to the marginally firmer feel of the Bumblebee.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this regard. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing either switch down, as the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same. With both switches offering the same travel distance, they will deliver comparable performance in terms of keystroke activation and feedback. Therefore, users can enjoy consistent results whether they choose the Bumblebee or the Milk Tea switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is known for its exceptionally bright sound profile, which can provide a lively auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch blends a fairly high-pitched sound with a muted essence, striking a balance between presence and subtlety. Thus, while both switches deliver a high-pitched auditory characteristic, the Bumblebee lean towards a sharper, more pronounced sound, whereas the Milk Tea offers a more nuanced auditory experience that can be perceived as less intrusive due to its muted quality.
Regarding the feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch does not have a explicit description, but the Milk Tea switch is characterized by its polished and silky attributes. The smooth and refined finish of the Milk Tea ensures a sleek typing experience, promoting reduced friction and smooth key travel. These characteristics lend to an effortlessly fluid typing feel. Therefore, while the Bumblebee Linear's tactile sensations are uncertain, the Milk Tea's notable smoothness provides a compelling experience that many users find desirable in linear switches.
In summary, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches cater to users seeking quality auditory and tactile experiences, but they do so in different ways. The Bumblebee offers a bright sound profile complemented by an unknown tactile sensation, while the Milk Tea excels in delivering a polished, silky typing feel alongside a high-pitched, yet muted, sound. Users seeking similar auditory presence might gravitate toward the Bumblebee, while those desiring smoothness and subtlety may prefer the Milk Tea. Ultimately, both switches have unique properties that appeal to different preferences among typists.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch largely depends on your specific typing preferences and the ambiance you desire from your mechanical keyboard. If you favor a brighter sound profile and are looking for a very smooth, enjoyable typing experience, the Bumblebee Linear with its bottom-out force of 50 grams might be your best bet. Its sound is crisp, engaging, and suitable for a lively typing environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a subtle yet unique auditory experience, the Milk Tea switch, boasting a bottom-out force of 43.5 grams, will serve you well. Its high-pitched yet moderated sound delivers a clean, marbly resonance that can elevate your typing enjoyment while maintaining a polished, silky feel. Ultimately, if you enjoy auditory feedback that is more pronounced and lively, opt for the Bumblebee; however, if you lean towards a more balanced sound and a softer keypress, the Milk Tea is likely the better choice for you.