Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Orange Sea offers enthusiasts a fascinating comparison of tactile experiences. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing feel and bright sound profile, making it an enticing option for those who value auditory feedback with every keystroke. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea boasts an impeccably smooth type feel paired with a neutral sound signature, catering to users who prefer a more subdued auditory experience without sacrificing performance. Both switches are linear, providing seamless key travel without tactile bumps, yet they each offer unique characteristics that can significantly alter typing experiences. Whether you prefer the lively auditory feedback of the Bumblebee or the understated elegance of the Orange Sea, your choice will ultimately hinge on personal preference. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Orange Sea switches present a fascinating study in contrast, particularly in their top housings. The Bumblebee Linear features POM, known for creating a deeper, more muted sound profile. This material's unique qualities provide a pleasing auditory experience, though it may not cut through as sharply as some users prefer. In comparison, the Haimu Orange Sea's polycarbonate top housing offers a stark contrast with its higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. As a stiffer plastic, polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it an ideal choice for users who desire a cleaner auditory feedback, particularly in RGB lighting setups that amplify the switch's translucency.
When we shift our focus to the bottom housing, both the Bumblebee Linear and the Orange Sea utilize nylon, a material revered for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The properties of nylon—being softer and more sound-absorbent—lend a certain warmth to the typing experience in both switches, creating a rounder sound that helps to balance out the sharper top housing in the Orange Sea. Despite the difference in the top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a cohesive auditory experience, ensuring that both switches are capable of providing a satisfying depth in sound during keypresses.
Ultimately, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Orange Sea switches diverge in their top housing materials, they share a commonality in their nylon bottom housing that influences the sound profile during use. The interaction between the softer nylon base and the distinct characteristics of the top materials leads to a blend of auditory results. As such, while the Bumblebee may sound deeper and more muted, and the Orange Sea sharper and more resonant, both switches provide a unique typing experience that showcases the benefits of their combined housing materials. The differing top housings contribute their individual traits, but the nylon base ensures both switches maintain a foundational quality that resonates well with users seeking an appealing sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, we find some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light option suitable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Orange Sea switch is even lighter, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Haimu Orange Sea provides a softer feel for users who prefer minimal resistance. Overall, for those seeking a lighter switch, the Orange Sea is the clear choice with its lower forces. However, the Bumblebee's slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces may cater to users who appreciate a bit more feedback in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on the keys of either switch, users will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches offer similar tactile feedback and overall performance, leading to a consistent typing experience across both options. Since their travel distances are equal, users can expect similar results when using either switch.
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 Orange Sea comes in at $2.79.
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 boasts a bright sound profile that enhances the auditory experience while typing, making each keystroke distinct and noticeable. This quality adds a certain vibrancy to the overall experience, potentially appealing to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switch is characterized by a neutral sound signature, which provides a more understated type of auditory feedback. This makes the Orange Sea switches less intrusive and may be preferable for users who favor a calmer typing environment. When considering sound, both switches provide different experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preferences while acknowledging that external factors like the keyboard build and keycap material will also influence the overall sound profile.
Regarding feel, the Bumblebee Linear is known for delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This smoothness ensures that keystrokes glide effortlessly without any interruptions or scratchiness, creating a fluid sensation that many typists find enjoyable. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches, while also exceptionally smooth, incorporate features that add an invigorating tactile feedback. Described as accented, they offer a medium tactile experience that balances feedback without overwhelming the user. This invigorating feel, complemented by a moderate to firm actuation force, enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and engaging interaction that contrasts with the pure linearity of the Bumblebee switches.
In conclusion, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches cater to distinct preferences related to sound and feel. While the Bumblebee creates a bright auditory experience paired with an exceptionally smooth feel, the Orange Sea offers a neutral sound with invigorating feedback through its accentuated tactile nature. Depending on individual tastes regarding sound and typing feel, users will find themselves drawn to either switch for their unique qualities. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality experiences, albeit each with its distinctive characteristics that can influence one's overall typing journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Orange Sea, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you favor a smoother typing experience combined with a brighter sound profile that can liven up your setup, the Bumblebee Linear with its 50g actuation force would be an excellent choice for you. It offers a unique auditory dimension that some typists find enhancing to their experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more neutral sound signature and crave a typing feel that balances smoothness with a slight tactile character, the Haimu Orange Sea, with its lighter 45g actuation force, might be better suited to your preferences. Its invigorating feedback creates a snappy and engaging typing sensation, perfect if you enjoy a responsive feel that keeps your fingers lively on the keys. Ultimately, both switches bring their own distinct qualities to the table, so you should consider what aspects are most important to you—be it a bright acoustic environment or a more understated typing experience—before making your decision.