Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Phalaenopsis can significantly affect your typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth operation, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a fluid typing experience without any tactile feedback. Its bright sound profile adds a unique auditory element, appealing to users who enjoy the satisfying sound of key presses. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis offers a tactile switch experience, featuring a notable bump that enhances feedback at 50g of force, making it well-suited for typists who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis is designed with a lightweight actuation force of just 37g, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. While both switches cater to different preferences—smoothness versus tactility—they each have their own unique appeal. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Phalaenopsis exhibit distinct characteristics that significantly influence the auditory profile of each switch. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, which is known for producing a unique sound that leans towards a deeper and relatively muted tone. Meanwhile, the Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper audio experience. This difference is largely attributed to POM's softer, less resonant properties compared to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, suggesting that users seeking a more subdued sound might prefer the Bumblebee Linear, while those desiring clarity and brightness could lean towards the Phalaenopsis.
When examining the bottom housing, the contrast between the two switches becomes even more pronounced. The Bumblebee Linear's nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the overall sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb impact and reduce sharpness. Conversely, the Phalaenopsis incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which enhances the high-frequency response, giving it a more pronounced and dynamic audio signature. This divergence in materials means that the Bumblebee Linear might provide a more rounded acoustic experience, while the Phalaenopsis boasts a clearer resonance, appealing to different user preferences and typing atmospheres.
Despite these differences, both switches can achieve satisfying auditory outcomes by harnessing their respective materials' strengths. The Bumblebee Linear's combination of muted POM with full nylon can create a warm and immersive typing experience, ideal for extensive writing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis, with its polycarbonate setup, promotes a vibrant soundscape that can energize the user, especially in RGB-enhanced environments due to its translucent nature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing experience, with both offering unique benefits rooted in their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we find some intriguing differences in their actuation forces, while their bottom out forces show consistency. The Bumblebee Linear features an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a light switch, while the Phalaenopsis is even lighter at 37 grams. This difference in actuation force means that users of the Phalaenopsis might find it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue, which is particularly advantageous for extended work sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that regardless of the actuation force, they will deliver a similar experience when pressed down completely. Thus, while the Bumblebee Linear provides a bit more resistance during actuation for those who prefer a stronger feel, the Phalaenopsis caters to those who favor a lighter touch, making it the more suitable option for those seeking a strain-free typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch differ in their travel distances, with the Bumblebee Linear measuring 3.6 mm and the Phalaenopsis at 4 mm. This makes the Bumblebee a shorter travel option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to its more rapid actuation. Conversely, the Phalaenopsis provides a longer travel distance, offering a more pronounced tactile feel that some users may find more gratifying, especially those who prefer a deeper keypress. In summary, if you value responsiveness, the Bumblebee Linear may be the better choice, while the Phalaenopsis is suited for those who appreciate a more substantial feedback during typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is known for its bright sound profile, which typically suggests a crisper and cleaner auditory feedback. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch features a sound that is both bassy and thocky. This means that every keystroke produces a deep, satisfying tone that resonates with a richer quality, often described as a "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed and released. While both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences, the Bumblebee Linear leans towards a higher-pitched sound, making it feel more pronounced in certain environments, whereas the Phalaenopsis delivers a sound that might appeal to those who enjoy a deeper acoustic experience.
In terms of feel, the Bumblebee Linear is noted for providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes without any tactile interruptions. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch offers a tactile bump, characterized as "stepped," which means it has a discernible feel that signals the actuation point through slight resistance. This tactile feedback enables typists to better understand when their keystrokes are registered, creating a different tactile sensation that can enhance typing accuracy. While the Bumblebee Linear focuses on smooth travel, the Phalaenopsis presents a more interactive sensation, making each keystroke feel intentional and engaging.
Overall, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches cater to different user preferences in sound and feel. If you prioritize a smooth and bright typing experience, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice, whereas the Phalaenopsis will likely appeal to those looking for tactile feedback with a richer acoustic character. Ultimately, your selection will depend on whether you prefer a clean linear feel or a tactile experience that provides auditory feedback, as both switches deliver unique benefits suited to diverse typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience, particularly for gaming or fast-paced typing where rapid key presses are essential, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent option with its lightweight feel and bright sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback and enjoy the satisfying sensation of a discernible bump with each keystroke, the Phalaenopsis will cater to your needs nicely. It also minimizes finger fatigue thanks to its light 37g actuation force, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions. The richer, deeper sound profile of the Phalaenopsis adds to the typing experience, providing that pleasurable thocky sound that many enthusiasts enjoy. Thus, consider the type of tasks you will perform most frequently, your sensitivity to tactile feedback, and the auditory experience you seek. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths, so choose based on what will enhance your keyboard experience the most.
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