Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing style and environment, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko Penguin offer distinct yet appealing options. The Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, characterized by a bright sound profile that can enhance the satisfaction of each keystroke, making it ideal for gamers and typists who enjoy a quick responsiveness without tactile resistance. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch represents a thoughtful entry into the realm of silent tactile switches, tailored for quieter settings like offices. With its rounded tactile bump, it provides satisfying feedback while maintaining a muted sound profile, perfect for users who prioritize both performance and discretion in their typing. While the Bumblebee Linear is a fantastic option for those seeking a lively and smooth experience, the Penguin is better suited for prolonged use in noise-sensitive environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko Penguin, a notable similarity is found in their bottom housing, both constructed from nylon. This choice of material plays a significant role in shaping the acoustic characteristics and overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing, recognized for its softer composition, absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Thus, both switches are likely to deliver a muted, rounder auditory experience due to their shared material, making them appealing to users who prefer a less pronounced keystroke sound.
In contrast, the top housing materials for the Bumblebee Linear and the Penguin are different, with the Bumblebee utilizing POM while the Penguin employs nylon. The POM top housing of the Bumblebee is noted for producing a distinctly unique sound, characterized as deeper and relatively muted due to its rigid nature. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Penguin continues to contribute to the deeper and fuller sound profile, albeit in a different way. The combination of POM on the Bumblebee and nylon on the Penguin indicates that while both offer satisfactory sound experiences, the Bumblebee's sound will have a unique quality due to the nature of its top housing material.
The impact of these differences becomes evident during actual use, as the properties of the materials will influence key feel and feedback. For instance, while the Bumblebee Linear's POM top housing enhances the sound when releasing a key, the nylon top of the Penguin will similarly contribute to the sound but with a softer response. Both bottom housings, being identical in material, will ensure that the feel and sound upon bottoming out remain consistent between the two switches. Consequently, despite differences in the top housing, users can expect a comparable acoustic experience when typing on either switch, thanks largely to the shared characteristics of their nylon bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we can observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming due to its relatively lower resistance. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a more substantial push at the end of the keystroke. This makes the Penguin switch more suitable for those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Overall, while both switches offer different feels, the Bumblebee is the lighter option, making it ideal for users who prioritize comfort and ease over sustained use, whereas the Penguin offers a stronger feedback experience for those who enjoy a more tactile typing sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, the Bumblebee Linear features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Penguin offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means the Bumblebee Linear would provide a deeper and potentially more satisfying feel for those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke, making it ideal for users who prefer a hearty depth in their typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Penguin switch may appeal to gamers and fast typists seeking quicker response times. While both switches cater to different preferences, the Bumblebee Linear is the longer option, and the Penguin is the shorter one. This difference in travel distance means users can expect distinct tactile experiences depending on their choice, with the Bumblebee being more suited for those who appreciate deeper keystrokes and the Penguin favoring speed and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear comes in at $2.99 per 10 switches.
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 emits a bright sound profile, which typically results in a more pronounced auditory feedback compared to other types of switches. This brightness means that typing on the Bumblebee can be more audible, possibly attracting attention in quieter environments. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch features a muted sound characteristic, making it a fantastic choice for office settings or shared spaces where noise might be an issue. The Penguin's sound is softer and quieter, ensuring that your typing is discreet, which is particularly beneficial in minimizing disruptions to others.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear is designed to deliver an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a straightforward linear action that lacks tactile resistance. This results in an uninterrupted keystroke ideal for fast typing without any bumps to navigate, appealing to those who prefer a simple, fluid motion. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch offers a rounded tactile bump that provides noticeable feedback upon actuation. This satisfies users who enjoy some level of tactile response while still allowing a smooth transition throughout the keypress. The Penguin switches are also noted for their medium weight, presenting a balanced experience that promotes comfort during long typing sessions without causing fatigue.
In conclusion, while both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Akko Penguin switches are designed with different user experiences in mind, they cater to distinct preferences. The Bumblebee excels in delivering a bright sound and a smooth, linear feel, making it suitable for those who prioritize speed and silence over tactile feedback. Conversely, the Akko Penguin emphasizes quiet operation and a gentle tactile response, making it ideal for work environments. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on whether you value auditory presence or prefer a quieter, subtly tactile experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your specific needs and typing preferences. If you prioritize a light and exceptionally smooth typing experience with a brighter sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear switch would be an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a more fluid keystroke without tactile bumps. This switch can be particularly appealing for gamers or those who type swiftly and seek minimal resistance. On the other hand, if you work in an office or shared space where noise reduction is paramount, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would better serve your needs. With its muted sound, balanced medium force, and satisfying tactile feedback, this switch ensures a refined typing experience without disturbing your colleagues. Its polished feel minimizes friction, making long typing sessions less tiring. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, the environment you'll be using the keyboard in, and whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch.
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