Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence your typing experience, and two popular options are the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Brown. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes and a bright sound profile, making it an attractive choice for gamers and typists who prefer a seamless, uninterrupted feel without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switch offers a tactile bump that provides a subtle indication when a key has been actuated, catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience that enhances both typing accuracy and satisfaction. While the Bumblebee Linear excels in smoothness and auditory feedback, the Outemu Brown shines in delivering tactile feedback that many users find essential for efficient typing. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Brown switches, we see a notable difference in the top housing materials. The Bumblebee Linear features a Polyoxymethylene (POM) top housing, which produces a sound profile that is described as deeper and more muted due to its unique acoustic qualities. In contrast, the Outemu Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, clearer sound profile thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This difference in sound characteristics reflects the inherent properties of each material, with POM emphasizing a smoother auditory experience and polycarbonate delivering a crisper, more resonant output. Therefore, while both switches are designed to provide distinct auditory feedback, the Bumblebee Linear leans toward a softer sound, while the Outemu Brown shines with its bright tonal clarity.
When analyzing the bottom housing of both switches, it is worth noting that both the Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Brown utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. Nylon is renowned for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively soft nature, which helps to absorb sound. Here, the similarities between the switches emerge clearly, as the nylon bottom housing contributes to a consistent auditory performance across both models. This shared characteristic implies that, regardless of the contrasting top housing materials, both switches will deliver a deeper bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, enriching the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the interplay between the differing top housings and the identical bottom housings of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Outemu Brown highlights the nuanced way in which switch characteristics come together to create distinct user experiences. With the top housing influencing the sound upon release and the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, the combination of POM and polycarbonate in the top and the shared nylon in the bottom leads to varied auditory profiles despite their common ground in bottom housing materials. In essence, while the Bumblebee Linear favors a more muted and deeper auditory experience, the Outemu Brown delivers a brighter tone, showcasing how housing material choices can greatly influence the overall typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Bumblebee Linear switch features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, suitable for users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. The lighter Bumblebee Linear switch is ideal for users prioritizing comfort over lengthy periods, while the medium-heavy Brown switch caters to those seeking increased resistance and feedback in their keystrokes. Thus, while both switches offer unique benefits, they cater to differing preferences based on actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch differ in their travel distances, with the Bumblebee Linear having a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Brown's 4 mm. This slight difference reflects the preferences of different users; those who favor quicker response times and a more immediate typing feel might prefer the Bumblebee due to its shorter actuation distance. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to individuals who appreciate a more substantial keystroke, providing a deeper sensation and potentially a more tactile feedback. Ultimately, while both switches serve distinct user needs, the Bumblebee Linear's shorter travel distance caters to those seeking responsiveness, whereas the Outemu Brown is more suited for users who enjoy a hearty depth in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear comes in at $2.99, whereas the Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10.
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
The sound profile of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is characterized by its bright tone, which is part of what makes these switches appealing for those who enjoy an audible typing experience. The linear nature of the Bumblebee means that it does not have the tactile bump typically found in other switch types, leading to a smoother keystroke that ultimately contributes to its clean sound. Conversely, the Outemu Brown switch does not have a detailed sound description available, making it more challenging to compare directly. However, Brown switches are generally known for a subtle resistance that results in a comparatively muted sound, particularly due to the tactile bump situated at the actuation point.
In terms of feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is best known for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, which provides seamless travel from keypress to keypress. This smoothness allows for rapid typing without the interruption of any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch is characterized by its tactile feedback, offering a distinct bump when the key is actuated. This tactile feel can enhance typing accuracy for those who prefer a sensory cue indicating that the switch has been engaged, creating a different typing engagement than that experienced with the Bumblebee Linear.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a smooth and bright switch, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice, whereas the Outemu Brown offers a more tactile experience that some typists may prefer for its responsiveness. While the sound of the Bumblebee is noted for its brightness and the Brown is more subdued, the feel is markedly different, with the Bumblebee Linear providing a seamless experience and the Brown delivering tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and sound or tactile feedback during typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Brown switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter keypress and prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience, the Bumblebee Linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. Its low actuation force and seamless travel provide an enjoyable experience, especially for those who frequently engage in prolonged typing sessions or gaming. Moreover, its bright sound profile adds a lively aspect to your interactions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback while typing and don’t mind the slightly heavier actuation force, the Outemu Brown switch is an excellent option. The added resistance can help you feel more in control while typing and may be beneficial for those who appreciate feedback without the noise of a clicky switch. Therefore, consider your preferences for sound, actuation force, and typing feel before making your decision between these two distinct switches, as they cater to different styles and needs.
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