Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences and uses. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an attractive choice for those who value an uninterrupted keystroke. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro is regarded as an all-rounder that combines smoothness with a satisfyingly thick resistance and low, "thocky" sound, appealing to budget-conscious users without compromising on performance. The Milky Yellow Pro excels equally in both gaming and typing scenarios, making it a versatile option for a wider audience. Ultimately, while both switches serve their purpose well, their unique characteristics make them suitable for different types of users. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), distinct characteristics emerge, particularly in the top housings. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) employs a nylon top housing, a classic choice that similarly results in a deeper and fuller sound, albeit with a bit more absorption due to nylon's softer composition. While the Bumblebee offers a unique sound profile due to the properties of POM, the Milky Yellow Pro's nylon housing might provide a more traditional tactile experience that aligns with general expectations of nylon switches.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, are notably produced from nylon material, which is celebrated for enhancing sound quality through its softer, sound-absorbing characteristics. This similarity suggests that both switches will deliver a deeper and rounder sound profile when bottoming out, as the nylon material effectively dampens vibrations. Therefore, when considering the switch experience, players can expect the bottom housing of each switch to contribute similarly to the sound and feel. This shared attribute leads to a comparable auditory experience, irrespective of the different top housings.
Ultimately, the combined effects of diverse top and uniform bottom housing materials lead to a differentiated experience across the two switches. The POM top of the Bumblebee may create a distinct auditory output when releasing the key, while the nylon top of the Milky Yellow Pro tends to deliver a more conventional sound palette. However, the commonality in the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches will produce a soft, rich sound signature during key presses. This balance illustrates how variations in housing materials can shape the characteristics of a switch, yet also how they can coexist to create similar outcomes for users through distinct auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, notable differences can be observed in their 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 more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel. This means that if you're looking for a lighter experience for long periods of use, the Bumblebee Linear would be the better option, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is better for users wanting a firmer, more responsive experience. Overall, the differences in the actuation and bottom out forces highlight the Bumblebee Linear as the lighter switch while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) leans towards a heavier preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Bumblebee Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Bumblebee Linear the shorter option, appealing to gamers or users seeking quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. Conversely, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) caters to those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke experience, offering a more traditional feel with its 4.0 mm travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in keypress feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), notable differences emerge. The Bumblebee Linear is known for its bright sound, which likely gives it a higher-pitched characteristic that can feel more lively and pronounced compared to other switches. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro excels with a low-pitched, thocky sound that's described as deep and rich, providing a bassy resonance that offers a satisfying audio feedback during typing. This sound, often likened to a deep thud upon each keypress, may appeal to those who enjoy a more grounded auditory experience. It's important to remember that the overall sound experience can also be influenced by the keyboard build, plate materials, and keycap choices, which means both switches can perform well in different acoustic environments.
In terms of feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is recognized for providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize fluid keystrokes. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) takes the smooth experience a step further with its buttery feel, characterized by seamless and effortless keystrokes. However, it does incorporate a certain thickness in its resistance that might be perceived as a textured experience by some users. This crafted tactile profile makes it highly versatile for both typing and gaming. While the Bumblebee Linear focuses on delivering an ultra-smooth sensation, the Milky Yellow Pro balances that smoothness with a textured element that adds depth to the typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches each have their unique sound and feel characteristics, they both provide satisfying typing experiences suitable for various preferences. The Bumblebee offers a bright sound and exceptionally smooth feel, while the Milky Yellow Pro stands out with its thocky sound and buttery keystrokes that include some thickness in resistance. Ultimately, both options are excellent; your choice may come down to whether you prefer a more vibrant sound or a deeper, resonant auditory feedback, alongside the feel preference for a smoother typing experience versus a slightly textured one.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) largely depends on your preferences regarding typing feel, sound profile, and intended use. If you find yourself leaning towards a lighter switch with a smooth keystroke and a brighter sound, the Bumblebee Linear is your go-to choice. Its lower actuation force of 50 grams makes it ideal for long typing sessions, especially if you favor a lighter touch or require rapid keystrokes for gaming or typing tasks that benefit from speed. Conversely, if you appreciate a more substantial feel with pronounced resistance and a satisfying thocky sound, the Milky Yellow Pro is the switch for you. With its 62-gram bottom-out force, this switch offers a more balanced experience, excelling in a variety of contexts from casual gaming to productivity, all while delivering a rich, bass-heavy sound that many users find appealing. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize a soft, swift action or a sturdier, more tactile response in your mechanical keyboard usage.
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