Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your needs, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Mountain Top both present compelling options, each tailored to different typing experiences. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth operation and bright sound profile, making it ideal for users who appreciate tactile feedback and a crisp auditory response during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switches focus on discretion, offering a quiet yet slightly audible typing experience that is perfect for office environments where noise levels need to be kept in check. With a comfortably light actuation and an overall mild feel, the Mountain Top switches aim to create a seamless and unobtrusive typing experience for professionals. While both switches cater to the linear category, their unique sound characteristics and intended use cases provide distinct advantages. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing environment.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Mountain Top switches present a fascinating comparison between their structural compositions and resulting sound profiles. The Bumblebee Linear employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which contributes to a unique, deeper, and relatively muted sound, enhancing the overall typing experience with its distinctive acoustic properties. In contrast, the Mountain Top utilizes nylon for its top housing, regarded as a classic material that similarly elicits a deeper, fuller sound profile. Although both materials lead to a satisfying auditory experience, the underlying characteristics of POM and nylon create subtle differences in how each switch resonates, with the POM likely producing crisper yet softer sounds compared to the warmer tones of nylon.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Bumblebee Linear and Mountain Top feature nylon as their material of choice. This commonality ensures that users will experience a consistent auditory depth and a more rounded typing sound regardless of the switch they choose. Nylon’s inherent softness plays a pivotal role in absorbing sound, thereby enriching the bottom-out experience and contributing towards a muted resonance. As both switches share this nylon bottom housing, the fans of either will benefit from similar sound profiles and tactile feedback during typing, emphasizing how material composition can heavily influence performance and user satisfaction.
In summary, while the top and bottom housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Gateron Mountain Top switches are different, they converge in their usage of nylon for the bottom housing, which establishes a cohesive sound experience between them. The distinct top housings—POM for the Bumblebee and nylon for the Mountain Top—introduce varied acoustic elements during key release, while the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a rich, full-bodied sound. Consequently, gamers and typists alike can expect engaging auditory feedback when utilizing either switch, showcasing how the combination of materials can harmonize their characteristics to create an enjoyable performance.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch present a nuanced comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Mountain Top features a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that while the Bumblebee requires a bit more effort to initially activate, both switches ultimately feel the same when fully pressed down. Consequently, typists and gamers who prefer a lighter switch will find the Mountain Top more suitable for prolonged use, as its lower actuation force can reduce fatigue during extended sessions. However, those who appreciate a stronger feedback and a more substantial typing experience might lean toward the Bumblebee due to its slightly higher actuation force. In summary, while both switches offer the same bottom out force, the Bsun Bumblebee is the heavier option when it comes to actuation force, while the Gateron Mountain Top provides a lighter feel, catering to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch exhibit different travel distances, with the Bumblebee having a travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Mountain Top's 3.4 mm. This makes the Mountain Top the shorter of the two, offering a more responsive feel that can cater to gamers seeking quick key presses. On the other hand, the Bumblebee's slightly longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth and tactile feedback when typing. While both switches provide a linear experience, the Bumblebee's greater travel distance of 3.6 mm would be more suitable for users who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke, whereas the Mountain Top caters to those prioritizing speed and rapid responsiveness in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear comes in at $2.99, whereas the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00.
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 delivers a bright audio profile that enhances the auditory experience of typing. This lively sound can contribute to a sense of engagement while using the keyboard. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is designed with discretion in mind, offering a neutral sound signature that emphasizes a quiet yet not entirely silent operation. This makes the Mountain Top particularly suitable for more professional environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Overall, while both switches provide distinct sound characteristics, the Bumblebee leans towards a brighter tone, whereas the Mountain Top focuses on being unobtrusive.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes without interruption. The Gateron Mountain Top, on the other hand, offers a bouncy presence that provides a lively rebound during typing, along with a gentle actuation force that minimizes the effort needed for key presses. This results in an easy-to-press feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Mountain Top is also characterized by mild and subtle qualities, making it suitable for users who prefer a gentler typing experience. While the Bumblebee excels in smoothness, the Mountain Top brings an energetic touch with its responsive feedback, catering to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switches offer unique attributes that cater to varying preferences and environments. The Bumblebee stands out with its bright sound and exceptionally smooth feel, ideal for those who enjoy an engaging typing experience. Conversely, the Mountain Top's quiet nature combined with its bouncy and light actuation makes it perfect for professional settings where discretion is valued. Depending on what you prioritize in sound and feel, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience, underscoring the diverse options available in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Gateron Mountain Top switches largely depends on your specific typing environment and personal preference. If you prefer a smooth, lively typing experience with a brighter sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear switch may be your best bet. Its lighter bottom-out force allows for effortless typing, making it ideal for those who enjoy expressing their keystrokes audibly, whether for gaming or casual typing in a quieter setting. On the other hand, if you find yourself in an office or shared environment where discretion is key, the Gateron Mountain Top switch would be more suitable. Its bouncy feel, combined with a neutral and subdued sound profile, ensures you can type away comfortably without disturbing your coworkers, all while enjoying a gentle yet responsive actuation. Ultimately, your choice should reflect both the atmosphere you’ll be typing in and your tactile preferences, allowing you to maximize your comfort and productivity in your keyboard experience.
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