Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Blue each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its incredibly smooth keystrokes, providing a seamless typing experience that many users appreciate for both gaming and typing. Its bright sound profile further enhances the experience, offering auditory feedback without the distraction of distinct clicks. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is a clicky switch that is geared toward typists who enjoy tactile feedback and the satisfying auditory confirmation of each keypress, making it an excellent choice for those who love a more robust typing sensation. While the Bumblebee Linear caters to those seeking a quieter and fluid experience, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is perfect for users who thrive on auditory cues and tactile responses. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches both utilize different top housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The Bumblebee features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound, creating a satisfying auditory experience that many typists and gamers appreciate. This softer, darker sound can create an immersive environment while typing, lending itself well to prolonged use. Conversely, the Dustproof Blue has a polycarbonate top housing that offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. Known for its relatively stiffer nature, polycarbonate enhances the clarity of the audio output, making it particularly ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced, high-pitched keystroke sound, especially under RGB lighting conditions due to its translucency.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, there is a commonality that can contribute to a fuller auditory experience. Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Outemu Dustproof Blue utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This classic material is known for absorbing sound effectively, producing a deeper and more vibrant sound profile overall. The soft nature of nylon plays a significant role in diminishing harsher tones, resulting in a rounder auditory experience that can complement the differing sound characteristics introduced by the top housings. Therefore, while the top housings diverge in material and sound profile, the shared nylon bottom housing allows both switches to retain a certain level of warmth and fullness.
In terms of the overall sound experience when using these switches, the different top housing materials establish contrasting sound profiles that are balanced by the similar nylon base. Users of both switches will encounter a unique auditory experience dictated by the top housing's contribution—be it the deeper sound of the Bumblebee's POM housing or the crisp notes of the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate. However, both switches still ground this mix with the deeper, fuller throatiness provided by the nylon bottoms, offering a familiar resonance across both models. To summarize, while the Bumblebee's and Dustproof Blue’s sound outputs may differ substantially due to their top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing ensures that users will still enjoy a rich sound experience regardless of the switch chosen.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, one can observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly higher bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue requires a medium-heavy actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This distinction highlights the Bumblebee Linear as the lighter option, which might be more suitable for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue provides a stronger push feel, catering to those who prefer a more substantial tactile experience. Overall, the differences in their forces suggest that users will have varying experiences depending on their preference for lighter or heavier switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, the Bumblebee Linear features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Blue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This measurement indicates that the Bumblebee Linear switch offers a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for gamers who prioritize fast response times and quicker key actuation. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced key press and deeper feedback. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer the responsiveness of a shorter travel or the satisfying depth of a longer one.
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 Dustproof Blue 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 a bright tone, making it pleasant to the ear without the pronounced auditory feedback typical of tactile or clicky switches. This smooth linear design creates a quieter typing experience compared to clicky switches, appealing to those who prefer less distracting noise while working or gaming. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch, while lacking a specific sound description, generally lives up to the expectations of clicky switches, which typically produce a distinctly sharp click with each keystroke. This clicky feedback can create an engaging auditory experience for users who enjoy the classic sound associated with mechanical typing.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is renowned for delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This smoothness, characteristic of linear switches, contributes to seamless key presses without the tactile bumps or clicks found in other switch types. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch provides a tactile feel accompanied by a pronounced click, offering users a definitive point of actuation that many typists find satisfying. This tactile and audible feedback can be beneficial for those who enjoy a more traditional typing style and need a clear response as they type.
In conclusion, if you’re considering a switch for your mechanical keyboard, choose the Bumblebee Linear switch for a smooth and bright typing experience, ideal for quiet settings. If, however, you lean toward a tactile and clicky operation, the Outemu Dustproof Blue offers a classic mechanical feel with satisfying auditory feedback. Each switch delivers a unique typing experience, so your choice will depend on your personal sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent option. With its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, it allows for rapid, effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers looking for agility and responsiveness. These switches can be particularly appealing if you are working in shared environments where noise is a concern, as they produce a brighter sound profile without the clicky feedback. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile feedback that helps you know when a key has been actuated, the Outemu Dustproof Blue would be a better fit. With its heavier 65-gram bottom-out force, this switch provides a satisfying resistance and a distinctive click, which many typists find satisfying for both writing and coding. However, you should be mindful that the clicky nature may not suit everyone, especially if you need a quieter setup. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, the noise level you can tolerate, and whether you prefer smooth action or satisfying clicks in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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