Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice can significantly impact your typing or gaming experience. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize a seamless keystroke without any distracting noise. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro, with its long pole design, provides a snappy sound signature that introduces a lively, crisp feel to each keystroke while maintaining a smooth actuation. This switch's unique auditory qualities make it appealing for users who enjoy a more vibrant typing experience that still offers elegance in smoothness. While both switches are linear and known for their smooth actuation, they cater to different auditory preferences and typing sensations. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, one of the notable distinctions lies in the composition of their top housings. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing a deep, muted sound profile, lending a unique auditory character to typing experiences. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, which, while also fostering a deeper sound, differs in its capacity to absorb sound vibrations. The softer nature of nylon allows it to create a fuller and rounder sound, making the typing experience slightly less muted compared to the Bumblebee Linear. Thus, even though both switches strive for a similar tonal quality, the materials used result in slight variations in auditory feedback during use.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both the Bumblebee Linear and the V3 Piano Pro are made from nylon, which solidifies their resemblance in sound profiles even further. This shared housing material contributes significantly to the overall auditory experience, with both switches delivering a deeper and fuller sound as a result of nylon’s sound-absorbing properties. The impact of the bottom housing on the sound when bottoming out is crucial, and since both switches employ nylon, users can expect a similar muted yet rich auditory feedback during key presses. This uniformity in material choice on the bottom housing front helps to create a consistent feeling in terms of sound response.
Together, these two switches exemplify how variations in housing materials can influence both typing feel and auditory feedback. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear’s use of POM for the top housing introduces a unique element to its sound, but its nylon bottom housing aligns it closely with the V3 Piano Pro’s nylon construction throughout. Consequently, while there are distinctions in the top housing that affect the overall acoustic profile, it's clear that both models maintain a cohesive auditory theme due to their commonality in using nylon for the bottom housing. Users seeking a specific sound experience can obtain similar results from both switches when the focus is on the qualities of the bottom housings, underscoring how material choices contribute to the overall keyboard experience.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, making them feel the same in terms of keystroke initiation. However, their bottom out forces differ, with the Bumblebee reaching a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Bumblebee Linear is overall lighter, offering a more effortless typing experience compared to the medium-light V3 Piano Pro. For users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Bumblebee may be the more comfortable choice. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro due to its greater bottom out force. Despite their similarities in actuation force, the differences in bottoming out force cater to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Bumblebee Linear the longer of the two switches, providing a more pronounced keypress which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper feel to their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro, with its shorter travel distance, can deliver a more responsive typing experience, which is often favored by gamers looking for quicker actuation. If you prioritize speed and responsiveness in your keystrokes, the V3 Piano Pro might be the better choice; however, if you appreciate a more substantial keypress, the Bumblebee Linear would be preferable. Both switches cater to different preferences and can ultimately deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit in slightly different ways.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro 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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch stands out with its bright and clear sound profile, which enhances the auditory experience of typing. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro features a more diverse sound quality that can be described as clacky and resonant. The clacky character lends a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke, while the resonant attribute adds an immersive and higher-pitched aspect to the auditory feedback. This results in a lively and crisp sound that can make typing feel more dynamic. However, it's essential to recognize that the overall sound will hinge on the specific keyboard and keycaps used in conjunction with these switches.
Focusing on the feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making each keystroke effortless and fluid. However, the feel of the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches introduces a variety of tactile sensations that include bounciness, creaminess, and polish. The bouncy quality provides a delightful spring-like feedback when pressed, while the creamy and polished attributes contribute to an overall buttery and refined typing experience. This makes the V3 Piano Pro feel lively and satisfying with each press, providing a comforting touch while typing that some users may find appealing.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Bumblebee focuses on a clean, bright sound accompanied by a smooth typing feel, while the V3 Piano Pro captivates with its clacky, resonant sound and varied tactile sensations that include bounciness and creaminess. While they cater to different preferences, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience, making them both worthy options depending on the individual user's desires.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lighter switch with an exceptionally smooth feel, the Bumblebee Linear—with its 50 grams of bottom-out force—provides a delightful typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long sessions. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a quieter yet still satisfying keystroke, making it an excellent option for both office environments and gaming. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly snappier response and a more lively auditory experience, the Akko V3 Piano Pro’s 55 grams of bottom-out force and its clacky, resonant sound profile will likely appeal to you. This switch is a great choice if you want a bit more feedback and energy in your typing or gaming sessions while still maintaining a smooth actuation. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it's a lighter and smoother experience or a bit more responsiveness and character in your keystrokes—to help you make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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