Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko Rosewood Linear offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, coupled with a bright sound profile that can enhance typing satisfaction, making it a great choice for those who seek a seamless and responsive feel without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switches are celebrated for their deep, satisfying "thock" sound, which is produced straight out of the box due to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, appealing to users who appreciate auditory feedback alongside linear actuation. While both switches belong to the linear category, their sound profiles and overall typing experiences set them apart in meaningful ways. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$2.99 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Akko Rosewood, a notable distinction arises with the top housing. The Bumblebee Linear utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for its top housing, which is known for producing a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and more muted. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood features a nylon top housing, a classic material that similarly lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound. Despite the different materials, both switches aim to offer a satisfying auditory experience. While the POM on the Bumblebee may create a distinctive resonance, the nylon on the Rosewood contributes to a rich sound, suggesting that users could enjoy satisfying acoustic feedback from both options, albeit with unique nuances in sound profile.

Moving to the bottom housings, both the Bumblebee Linear and Akko Rosewood utilize the same nylon material. This shared characteristic means that they both exhibit similar qualities in terms of sound absorption and impact. The nylon bottom housing, being a softer plastic, effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile, which reinforces the deeper, fuller auditory experience elicited by both switches. In this aspect, users can expect both switches to deliver consistent and harmonious sound results, regardless of the variations in top housing material.

Ultimately, the differing top housing materials result in a distinctive division of sound qualities between the two switches. The Bumblebee's POM top housing influences the sound profile when key releases occur, while the Rosewood's nylon top housing affects it in a complementary manner, leading to a slightly different overall sound characteristic. However, since both switches share nylon in their bottom housing, they carry a fundamental similarity in tactile feedback and sound engagement. Thus, users can anticipate a rich and deeply engaging typing experience from both, even though each switch offers its own distinct flair through individual top housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, but they differ slightly in their actuation forces. The Bumblebee has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Rosewood is slightly lighter at 40 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, which means they provide a consistent resistance when fully pressed down. This similarity in bottom out force suggests that users will experience comparable feedback at the end of a keystroke, regardless of the lighter actuation force of the Rosewood. For those who prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Rosewood may be the more suitable choice. Conversely, the Bumblebee may appeal to users who favor a heavier actuation force, offering a more substantial push feel overall while still maintaining a light typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Bumblebee Linear has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Rosewood features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Bumblebee Linear the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Rosewood, with its traditional 4 mm travel distance, may provide a more satisfying depth for users who prefer a fuller keypress experience. Overall, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Bumblebee may be the better choice, whereas those leaning towards a more substantial feel might prefer the Rosewood switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch offers a bright sound profile, which gives it a crisp character that can be quite pleasant for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood linear switch is known for its deep, thocky sound straight out of the box, imparting a rich resonance with each keystroke. While both provide a distinct auditory experience, the Bumblebee's brightness contrasts with the Rosewood's depth, creating differing atmospheres that can influence your typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by both switches can also be affected by the specific keyboard construction and keycap material used.

When it comes to feel, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, which enhances the overall comfort during extended typing sessions. This smoothness is a hallmark of linear switches, promoting a fluid motion throughout the keypress. Conversely, the Akko Rosewood switch also provides a smooth action, but the sensation may be complemented by the deep sound, which can contribute to an overall satisfying tactile feedback, albeit the specifics of that feel can vary. Ultimately, both switches focus on delivering a smooth keystroke, catering to those who prefer linear switches without tactile bumps or clicks.

In conclusion, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Akko Rosewood linear switches offer different auditory experiences—with the Bumblebee's bright sound versus the Rosewood's deep thocky resonance—they both excel in providing a smooth feel for typists. Your choice may come down to personal preference regarding sound; however, regardless of the switch you choose, you can expect a similar smooth typing experience that typifies the linear switch family, making both options appealing for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

To summarize, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences regarding typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a bright sound, the Bumblebee Linear is the ideal choice for you. Its lighter actuation force of 50 grams makes it particularly suitable for fast typists or gamers who prefer quick keystrokes without much resistance. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a deeper, thocky sound that enhances the auditory feedback while typing, the Rosewood switch would be a better fit. Its factory-applied lubricant contributes to a richer acoustic experience, which could be appealing for those who enjoy a more tactile and resonant feedback. Both switches offer a light actuation force, ensuring comfort during long typing sessions, but your preference for either a smooth, bright feel or a deeper, more resonant sound will ultimately guide your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

$2.99 per 10

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Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more