Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, making it essential to understand the differences between options like the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Cream Yellow. The Bumblebee Linear switch is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing feel, providing a quiet yet responsive experience ideal for both gaming and typing; its bright sound profile adds an engaging auditory element that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch, while primarily known for its lack of prominent features, offers a tactile feel for those who prefer feedback with each keystroke, making it a suitable choice for typists who enjoy a bit of resistance as they type. Ultimately, the decision between a smooth linear switch and a tactile option boils down to personal preference in touch and sound. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches showcase distinct differences in their top housing materials, with the Bumblebee utilizing a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top and the Cream Yellow employing a nylon top. The choice of POM for the Bumblebee Linear leads to a unique auditory experience characterized by a deeper and more muted sound profile. This material is known for its hardness, which can create a distinct tonal quality when typing. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Cream Yellow is emblematic of a classic switch design, yielding a rounded and fuller sound profile that results from nylon's softer nature. Thus, while both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, the different top housing materials influence the sound characteristics, highlighting the Bumblebee's sharper tone against the Cream Yellow's mellower resonance.
In evaluating the bottom housing, both switches opt for nylon, resulting in identical outcomes regarding sound profile and typing feel. This similarity underscores nylon's reputation as a classic switch housing material known for its sound absorption capabilities. The consistency in the bottom housing material means that, regardless of the differences in the top housings, both switches will exhibit a deeper, fuller sound when bottoming out. When typing on either switch, users can expect a pleasant, rounded auditory feedback from the bottom housing, which absorbs vibrations and complements the tactile feedback of the switch's actuation.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Cream Yellow offer a varied sensory experience while maintaining a commonality in their bottom housings. The impact of the top housing on sound and overall typing sensation is evident; while the Cream Yellow's nylon lends a softer, rounder exit sound, the POM of the Bumblebee enhances the response during the keystroke. However, because both models share nylon in the lower section, they'll provide a consistent depth in sound profile at the bottom-out stage. Users may choose between these options based on their preference for top housing sound characteristics, promising an engaging experience regardless of the selection.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, both have an actuation force of 45 grams, which means they provide a similar feel when it comes to the effort required to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly: the Bumblebee Linear has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cream Yellow's is 60 grams. As a result, the Bumblebee Linear is the lighter option overall, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons without causing as much fatigue. In contrast, the heaviness of the Cream Yellow switch may appeal to those who prefer a more robust typing experience and a stronger tactile feedback. Thus, while the actuation forces match, the overall typing experience varies based on the bottom out forces, catering to different preferences in weight and feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switches, a notable difference emerges. The Bumblebee Linear boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cream Yellow measures at 3.3 mm, making the Cream Yellow the shorter option. This difference in travel distance can impact the tactile experience; gamers or those seeking quicker response times might prefer the Cream Yellow for its shorter throw, allowing for faster actuation. Conversely, the Bumblebee Linear, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial and satisfying feel for users who appreciate a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth.
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 Cream Yellow 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 Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is characterized by a bright sound profile that contributes to an engaging typing experience. This attention to auditory detail enhances the actuation feedback and makes it appealing for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch does not have a specific sound profile associated with it, making it a wildcard in terms of auditory feedback. It's essential to note that the overall sound can be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, so your choice will ultimately shape the acoustic signature regardless of the switch itself.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is renowned for providing an exceptionally smooth typing sensation, making it ideal for long typing sessions and rapid keystrokes. Its linear nature means that there are no tactile bumps or interruptions in the key press, promoting an uninterrupted flow that many typists find highly satisfying. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch does not have well-documented tactile characteristics, leaving its feel somewhat ambiguous compared to the Bumblebee. This can lead to varying experiences among users, as the tactile response and feedback are critical components of the typing experience for many enthusiasts.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch offers a bright sound profile and a smooth feel that are both appealing to typists and gamers alike, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch lacks specific auditory and tactile descriptions, making it less predictable. If you prefer a clearly defined auditory experience and smooth action, the Bumblebee Linear is likely the better choice. However, both switches will present a unique set of qualities that could satisfy different user preferences, and combining them with the right keyboard can lead to enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
In summary, the decision between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're seeking a light, smooth keystroke with minimal resistance, the Bumblebee Linear is the ideal choice, especially if you enjoy rapid typing or gaming where quick key presses are beneficial. Its bright sound profile adds a lively character to your setup, enhancing the overall experience without being overly distracting. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more tactile feedback with a moderate weight that provides a satisfying resistance, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch is your go-to. Although it lacks the extensive acclaim of other tactile switches, its 60-gram force offers a comfortable balance that can lead to more deliberate typing, making it a fine option for those who appreciate a slight bump in their keystrokes. By considering your typing habits and sound preferences, you can confidently choose between these two switches to tailor your keyboard experience to your liking.
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