Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice can often feel overwhelming. Two notable contenders in the realm of linear switches are the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Poro. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and a bright sound profile, making it an ideal option for users who appreciate a responsive and vibrant keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Poro offers a silky smooth operation, enhanced by meticulous lubrication that ensures an effortless glide. Additionally, the Poro's ultra-light actuation force contributes to its poppy and clacky sound profile, which can add a playful element to your typing. While both switches cater to those seeking a linear experience, they provide distinct auditory and tactile sensations that can significantly influence your typing comfort and enjoyment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Poro both play crucial roles in shaping the overall sound profile and tactile feel of each switch. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, which is known for producing a distinct and pleasing deeper sound. POM, or polyoxymethylene, typically has a denser structure, leading to a more muted auditory experience compared to other materials. In contrast, the HMX Poro employs a nylon top housing, which, as a classic material for switch housings, contributes to a rounder and fuller sound profile. While both switches aim for a deeper sound, the POM top of the Bumblebee focuses on providing a unique and muted tone, whereas the nylon top of the Poro emphasizes a more resonant quality.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, bringing some similarities in how they produce sound. Nylon's softer characteristics contribute to a deeper and fuller auditory profile as it absorbs vibration better than harder materials. This shared bottom housing design means that both switches will deliver a similar tactile and auditory experience when bottoming out, as the nylon's properties are likely to enhance the overall dampening effect. Given that both switches share the same bottom housing material, users can expect a comparable sound profile when typing and bottoming out, even if the top housings differ in material.
However, the different top housing materials do introduce nuances in how each switch reacts to key releases. While the Bumblebee Linear's POM top housing may result in a more controlled and muted sound when a key is released, the HMX Poro's nylon top housing will give a more resonant and fuller sound. This distinction highlights the importance of the top housing in shaping the auditory feedback upon release. Ultimately, users can anticipate an engaging typing experience from both switches, characterized by a deep and rounded sound when reaching the bottom, while the release sounds will showcase the unique qualities of each top housing material.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Poro Linear switch are intriguingly similar when it comes to their actuation and bottom out forces, as both have an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This alignment in specifications means that users can expect a consistent typing experience with both switches, offering light resistance that caters to long typing sessions and extended gaming marathons without causing excessive fatigue. Since both switches exhibit identical forces, they will likely yield similar results in terms of typing feel and feedback. Overall, neither switch is heavier than the other, making both suitable options for those who prefer a lighter key feel for comfortable use over long durations.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Bumblebee the shorter switch by a marginal amount, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as a shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes. Conversely, the Poro, with its 3.7 mm travel distance, can provide a more pronounced feeling of depth, which some users prefer for a more substantial tactile experience. Both switches fall within the range of modern keyboard preferences, with shorter distances becoming increasingly popular among competitive gamers seeking responsiveness, while others may opt for the Poro to enjoy a more traditional depth in their typing experience. Overall, users should consider their personal preferences for responsiveness versus tactile feedback when choosing between these two options.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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 produces a bright sound profile that can enhance the overall auditory experience of typing. This quality makes each keystroke stand out, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each press. In comparison, the HMX Poro linear switch is characterized by a poppy and clacky sound profile, which offers an engaging acoustic experience. Both switches, while different in their sound signatures, can produce a rewarding auditory feedback, yet the final sound will still depend on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycap material chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is known for delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch features meticulously lubricated components that are designed to provide an effortlessly gliding keystroke. Although both switches prioritize smoothness, the Poro offers a unique level of refinement that comes from its lubrication, potentially making it feel even smoother in practice for users who enjoy that aspect.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Poro linear switches each have unique qualities, they share some similarities in providing smooth typing experiences. The Bumblebee Linear produces a bright sound, whereas the Poro offers a more poppy and clacky auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice may come down to the specific auditory and tactile sensations you prefer while typing. Both switches promise to deliver satisfying results, making them excellent options for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Poro Linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear may be the perfect fit for your needs. With its light 50-gram bottom-out force, it is ideal for those who enjoy long typing sessions without finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you appreciate a silky smooth keystroke combined with a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound, the HMX Poro linear switch would suit you better. Its meticulous lubrication ensures effortless gliding, making it great for both typing and gaming. In light of these differences, consider what aspects of the typing experience are most important to you: whether it’s the overall smoothness and brightness of the Bumblebee Linear or the satisfying sound and gliding capability of the HMX Poro. Ultimately, each switch offers a unique experience that can enhance your mechanical keyboard journey, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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