Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Haimu Neo White both offer unique typing experiences, yet cater to different preferences among users. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes and bright sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize auditory feedback and fluidity in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White presents a medium-weight option with a slightly reduced travel distance, offering a distinctive feel that appeals to users looking for a balanced typing experience. The use of a Ly stem in the Neo White switches further enhances their smooth actuation, making each keystroke satisfying and responsive. Both switches present compelling features; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Neo White switches, it is evident that they utilize different top housing materials which significantly influence their respective sound profiles. The Bumblebee Linear features a polyoxymethylene (POM) top housing, known for generating a deeper and more muted sound. This creates a more rounded acoustic experience when typing, appealing to users who prefer a softer auditory feedback. In contrast, the Neo White incorporates a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Polycarbonate's stiffer structure enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for users who seek a more vibrant sound profile, particularly when RGB lighting is a consideration, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better illumination effects.
On the bottom housing side, both switches share the same material—nylon—resulting in a similar auditory experience in terms of sound fullness. Nylon is celebrated in the keyboard switch community for its ability to absorb sound, contributing to a deeper and rounder sound profile. The Bumblebee Linear and Neo White switches, therefore, provide an interesting contrast whereby the top housing influences the initial sound output when a key is released, while the bottom housing contributes to the overall depth and character of the sound when the key is pressed down. This shared nylon bottom housing balances the differences in their top materials, allowing for a certain level of auditory similarity despite the distinct qualities each switch offers.
In conclusion, the contrasting top housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Neo White switches set the stage for two unique typing experiences. While the POM top housing of the Bumblebee Linear offers a muted and warmer feel, the polycarbonate top of the Neo White delivers a crisper and more vibrant auditory feedback. Nevertheless, the use of nylon for both bottom housings ensures they maintain comparable depth in sound, emphasizing how the combination of materials can create diverse yet synergistic results in keyboard switches. Users will ultimately be able to enjoy a tailored typing sensation based on their preferences, leveraging the contributions of both the distinct top and common bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch during prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White does not have an explicitly stated actuation force but has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams. This indicates a firmer feel when the switch is fully pressed down, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, the Bumblebee Linear is the lighter option overall, while the Neo White is the heavier switch due to its greater bottom-out force. If the actuation force of the Neo White were known and matched the Bumblebee Linear's actuation force of 45 grams, one could expect similar results in typing experience up to the point of bottoming out, but currently, the contrasting bottom-out forces highlight a preference for different user experiences between the two switches.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Neo White linear switches have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in identical keypress experiences. This means that users pressing either switch will experience the same distance from the top to the bottom, leading to similar actuation feedback and overall performance. Since both switches share the same travel distance, users looking for a linear switch can expect comparable results in terms of feel and responsiveness when using either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear comes in at $2.99, whereas the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70.
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 evaluating the sound profile of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch, it is noted for providing a bright sound that contributes positively to the overall typing experience. While the exact characteristics of its acoustics are unspecified, the sound produced is generally considered to be favorable among users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White switch is characterized by a more neutral sound profile that strikes a balance with moderate actuation force and volume. This neutrality makes it versatile, catering well to both beginners and seasoned typists, whether in a home or office setting. It’s important to recognize that the actual sound can vary widely depending on the keyboard chassis, keycaps, and typing environment.
As for the feel of each switch, the Bumblebee Linear is recognized for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, which makes it attractive to users who enjoy a seamless keystroke. The details regarding how this smoothness is achieved aren’t specified, but users can expect an enjoyable experience with minimal resistance. The Haimu Neo White, on the other hand, features a medium weight and slightly reduced travel distance, which results in a distinctive typing feel. Its use of a Ly stem aids in delivering a remarkably smooth actuation, described as mild and approachable, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a gentle typing experience without any harsh feedback.
In summary, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Haimu Neo White switches offer unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. While the Bumblebee excels in providing a bright sound and a smooth feel, the Neo White offers a more neutral auditory experience with its mild typing characteristics. For users looking for a vibrant auditory feedback combined with fluid keystrokes, the Bumblebee might be the better choice. However, if one prefers a more balanced sound and gentle typing experience, the Neo White serves as an excellent alternative. Depending on personal preferences, either switch could potentially yield a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Neo White linear switch ultimately comes down to your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter key feel with a 50-gram bottom-out force and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, then the Bumblebee Linear is likely your best bet. This switch provides a bright sound profile that adds a lively element to your typing, making it particularly appealing for gaming or fast-paced typing environments. Conversely, if you want a slightly more substantial feel with a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, the Neo White switches offer a balanced typing experience that may feel more familiar and comfortable for those transitioning from membrane keyboards. The Neo White’s utilization of a Ly stem contributes to a uniquely smooth actuation while maintaining a neutral sound profile, making these switches versatile for both work and casual use. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences: the Bumblebee for a lighter, more vibrant experience, and the Neo White for a balanced, mild, and adaptable feel.
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