Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Purple Star each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience combined with a bright sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star distinguishes itself with its all-POM construction that delivers a buttery smooth experience, combined with a neutral sound signature that won't distract from your typing. With a very light 45g bottom-out force, the Purple Star is particularly suited for light typists seeking effortless comfort during long typing sessions. While both switches are linear, their distinct feel and sound profiles cater to various user needs. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Purple Star switches both feature POM as their top housing material, which results in a consistently pleasing sound profile. This shared characteristic means that both switches are designed to produce a deeper and relatively muted acoustic experience, making them ideal for those who prefer a less aggressive sound when typing. This similarity in top housing material ensures that users of both switches can expect similar auditory responses, lending to a cohesive feel whether one is navigating a workspace or gaming. The POM material’s ability to create a consistent sound signature highlights how these two switches can cater to users looking for a harmonious auditory enjoyment.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the two switches differs significantly, with the Bumblebee Linear using nylon while the Purple Star employs POM. Nylon, as a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, which contributes to a deeper and fuller overall sound profile. This attribute makes the Bumblebee Linear particularly effective for producing a duller and rounder sound when a key is bottomed out. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star lacks this sound-absorbing quality, which could result in a punchier feedback and a more direct sound. Therefore, while the Bumblebee Linear's nylon bottom complements the deeper tones of its POM top, the Purple Star's consistent POM construction may yield a different textual experience during key presses.
Ultimately, when the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, the sound and feel can be influenced by the characteristics of both materials. In the case of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear, its nylon bottom housing enhances the overall acoustic depth of the switch, while its POM top contributes to the softer release sound. Conversely, the KTT Purple Star, with a uniform POM construction, delivers a distinct typing experience characterized by the notable identity of the top housing throughout the key actuation. Users of either switch will appreciate the design choices made for each, understanding that while the Bumblebee Linear encapsulates a fuller auditory experience thanks to its nylon bottom, the Purple Star consistently delivers a pleasing yet distinct sound profile. Thus, while there are tangible differences, they also provide unique pathways to enjoy similar acoustic qualities.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch exhibit similar characteristics in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces, albeit with a slight difference in actuation force. The Bumblebee Linear has an actuation force of 45 grams while the Purple Star is slightly lighter at 43 grams, both of which are classified as light switches. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that they both require the same amount of force to fully depress. For users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Purple Star might be the more appealing choice due to its lower actuation force. However, for those who appreciate a more substantial push feel, both switches offer a comparable bottoming out experience, making them suitable options for different user preferences in terms of tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, the Bsun Bumblebee stands at 3.6 mm, while the KTT Purple Star measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This means that for users looking for a more responsive feel, the Purple Star may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, which aligns with the growing trend among gamers for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses, the Bumblebee Linear provides a fuller experience with its 3.6 mm travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether one prioritizes a quick, snappy feel or a more substantial depth in keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear comes in at $2.99, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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 presents a bright sound profile that can be characterized as clear and lively. This may add a certain character to the typing experience, making each key press feel more pronounced. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch features a low-pitched sound signature, which lends itself to a bass-heavy, mellow tone. This can make for a quieter typing experience, allowing for a more subdued atmosphere, especially during extended typing sessions where noise might become a distraction.
In terms of feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it pleasurable for long-term use. While specific descriptors are lacking, the smoothness suggests a lack of any noticeable resistance or friction during key presses, allowing for effortless typing. The KTT Purple Star switch is also designed for comfort, featuring a mild typing experience that sits well within an approachable range. Its easy-to-press design requires minimal force for activation, making it particularly suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch. This combination of properties effectively reduces finger fatigue, especially beneficial for those who spend extended periods typing.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Purple Star linear switches offer unique yet enjoyable typing experiences, each with distinct sound profiles and tactile characteristics. While the Bumblebee provides a brighter, more pronounced audible feedback, the Purple Star delivers a softer, deeper sound. On the feel front, both are geared towards smoothness and comfort, though the Bumblebee might appeal more for those seeking an uninterrupted flow while typing, whereas the Purple Star is ideal for light typists wanting less resistance. Choosing between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and the sensation of the keystroke.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the KTT Purple Star linear switches, your decision will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you value an exceptionally smooth typing experience paired with a brighter sound profile, then the Bumblebee Linear might be the switch for you. It caters well to those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback while typing, which can add a bit of personality to your setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and neutral sound signature combined with a buttery smooth feel, the KTT Purple Star would serve you better. Its low-pitched, mellow tone makes it suitable for environments where noise might be an issue, while the easy-to-press mechanics provide a comfortable experience for longer typing sessions. If you're a light typist seeking minimal resistance and a gentle keystroke feel, the Purple Star is designed to deliver just that. In essence, choose the Bumblebee Linear for a vibrant typing atmosphere and the Purple Star for a calm and fatigue-free experience.
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