Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Cherry MX Brown offer distinct advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, characterized by its linear action and bright sound profile, making it an appealing option for those who prefer uninterrupted keystrokes and a more pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch is all about subtlety, providing a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactile feedback and low-pitched audio, ideal for users who appreciate a more nuanced response without overwhelming noise. Each switch serves its purpose effectively; the Bumblebee Linear is perfect for gamers seeking rapid, fluid movements, while the MX Browns attract typists looking for a balanced blend of tactile sensation and quiet operation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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 Cherry MX Brown switches, we observe that both switches are designed with a distinct top housing material, leading to different auditory experiences. The Bumblebee Linear utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) plastic for its top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown features a nylon top housing, a material celebrated for its classic sound characteristics. Ultimately, while both types of housings aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, the Bumblebee's POM housing offers a unique auditory quality that is less pronounced than the fuller sound emitted by the nylon housing of the Cherry MX Brown.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, it's noteworthy that both the Bumblebee Linear and Cherry MX Brown utilize nylon. This commonality suggests that in terms of sound absorption qualities, both switches will deliver similar results. Nylon's softer properties allow it to absorb sound effectively, leading to a duller, rounder acoustics profile that enhances the typing experience through comfort and auditory appeal. As a result, the deeper and fuller sound produced by both switches can largely be attributed to the characteristics of their nylon bottom housings, contributing to a consistent tactile feedback.
In summary, while there are differences in the top housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Cherry MX Brown switches, both ultimately benefit from the nylon material in their bottom housings, which provides a shared auditory experience. The Bumblebee's POM top may provide a distinct sound, but the nylon bottoms ensure a common sound profile that remains harmonious between both switches. This blending of materials—a unique top with a classic bottom—illustrates how the choice of housing materials can influence both the sound and feel of a switch, creating a dynamic typing experience for users who appreciate nuanced auditory feedback in their keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch to the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, both switches exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, which indicates that they will provide similar responsiveness when triggering a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly; the Bumblebee Linear has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the MX Brown requires 55 grams to bottom out. This difference means that the Bumblebee Linear is generally lighter and may be more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming, catering to those who favor a softer touch. Conversely, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the MX Brown may provide users with a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Overall, if you’re looking for a lighter switch, the Bumblebee Linear is the way to go, while the MX Brown offers a bit more resistance for those who enjoy a stronger push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, the Bumblebee Linear features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly impact the typing experience: the shorter Bumblebee Linear switch might be more appealing to gamers who favor faster response times, while the Cherry MX Brown could be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial, tactile feel with a deeper press. If you're seeking responsiveness, the Bumblebee Linear would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, if you appreciate a more pronounced depth, the Cherry MX Brown would offer the desired heft, making it suitable for a traditional typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear comes in at $2.99, whereas the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00.
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 Bumblebee Linear switch stands out with its exceptionally bright sound profile, which allows for an engaging auditory experience while typing. This brightness can energize the typing experience, making it a distinguishing feature for users who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic signature. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch emits a low-pitched sound that is more subdued and gentle, providing a mellow tone that can be preferred in quieter environments. The difference in sound between these two switches can significantly influence the user experience, depending on individual preferences for auditory feedback.
Regarding feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is characterized by an incredibly smooth typing experience devoid of any tactile bumps. This smoothness can lead to a seamless and fluid typing experience, which many users find appealing for both gaming and typing alike. Conversely, the Cherry MX Brown switch offers a notable tactile sensation with a textured feel that provides a hint of friction during each keystroke. This tactile feedback is suitable for those who appreciate a more engaging typing experience, as it allows for a clearer sensory indication of when a key has been actuated.
In summary, the Bumblebee Linear and Cherry MX Brown switches cater to different user preferences in terms of both sound and feel. While the Bumblebee Linear provides a bright, smooth experience, the Cherry MX Brown allows for a more subdued, tactile interaction with a low-pitched sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your individual typing style and sensory preferences, as the differences present a varied typing experience that can appeal to a wide range of users.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Cherry MX Brown switches will largely depend on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the Bumblebee Linear switches would suit you well, especially if you enjoy a bright sound profile. These switches can be particularly beneficial for fast typists or gamers who require quick key presses without much resistance. On the other hand, if you appreciate a subtle tactile feedback without the jarring noise and prefer a fuller, richer sound that the MX Brown provides, opting for the Cherry MX Brown switches would be advantageous. They offer a balanced typing experience with a comfortable medium-light resistance and a textured feel that some users find satisfying for both typing and gaming. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you value smoothness and a lighter feel or a tactile and more pronounced typing experience with a subdued sound—both switches offer unique benefits tailored to different preferences.
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