Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Sakura both stand out as excellent linear options, each bringing unique characteristics to the table. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it a great choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback without the tactile resistance that some switches offer. In contrast, the Huano Sakura is designed for those who prefer a feather-light touch and moderate acoustics, making it ideal for long typing sessions when comfort and ease of use are paramount. While both switches cater to different user preferences, the decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize a more pronounced auditory experience or a lighter, more effortless keystroke. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Sakura, a distinct divergence can be observed between their top housings. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing that is noted for creating a unique and pleasant sound profile. Its sound is characterized as deeper and more muted compared to other materials, making it suited for those who appreciate a more acoustic experience with less harshness. In contrast, the Sakura utilizes a POK (Polyketone) top housing, which not only yields a smooth operation but also contributes to a clacky and vibrant sound. This difference in top housing materials indicates that while both switches serve the needs of different typing experiences, the Bumblebee Linear leans towards a more subdued auditory feedback, whereas the Sakura delivers a livelier and more pronounced sound.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which helps harmonize the sound profile of typing across both options. Nylon is a widely recognized material for switch housings, known for producing a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer nature. This shared characteristic in bottom housing materials ensures that users of both the Bumblebee Linear and the Sakura can expect a similar auditory experience when bottoming out. The nylon's sound-absorbing qualities reduce excess noise, resulting in a rounder sound, thereby ensuring that even though the top housings vary significantly, the overall auditory experience remains grounded in a deep, rich sound profile.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials—POM in the Bumblebee Linear versus POK in the Sakura—coupled with their shared nylon bottom housing, will lead to distinctive yet complementary typing experiences. The Bumblebee Linear's more muted sound contrasts with the Sakura's clackiness, but the underlying similarities brought by nylon will create a sense of continuity between the two. Users may find that while the auditory feedback during key presses and releases varies, the overall performance retains a satisfying depth and fullness derived from the nylon foundation of both switches. Whether opting for the deeper sound of the Bumblebee Linear or the clacky nature of the Sakura, the nylon bottom housing ensures both options can deliver an engaging typing experience.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch both exhibit light force characteristics, making them suitable for users who prefer a more comfortable typing experience, especially during extended use. The Bumblebee Linear switch requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sakura switch is even lighter, with an actuation force of just 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Sakura switch is the lighter option overall, making it easier for users to type for prolonged periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Bumblebee switch provides a slightly heavier resistance, which might be favored by those who desire more feedback when typing. However, both switches offer a lighter typing experience compared to many other switches, so users seeking a softer touch would likely find satisfactory results with either option.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience an identical amount of movement from the top to the bottom. As a result, both switches can deliver similar tactile feedback and key feel during typing or gaming activities, making them suitable options for those seeking a linear switch experience without any notable differences in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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 switches are characterized by their bright sound profile, which means they produce a more pronounced acoustic feedback when activated. This can add a lively element to typing, enhancing the overall experience for those who enjoy auditory stimulation while they type. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switches are known for their medium acoustics, resulting in a subtler sound that is less pronounced than the Bumblebee switches. This makes the Sakura switch more suited for quieter environments or for users looking for a more subdued typing experience. It is important to remember that the sound of a switch can be affected by various factors, including the type of keyboard it is mounted on and the design of the keycaps.
Regarding feel, the Bumblebee Linear switches are celebrated for their exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid key presses that many typists find satisfying. This smoothness contributes to a seamless flow when typing, which can enhance productivity for users who spend long hours at the keyboard. Conversely, the Sakura switches offer a feather-light touch, which may feel almost effortless when activated. This makes them particularly appealing for extended typing sessions, as the light touch reduces finger fatigue, albeit with a different tactile experience compared to the Bumblebee Linear switches. Each switch thus caters to different preferences in feel, making the choice dependent on individual typing styles.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Huano Sakura linear switches provide unique experiences suited for different user preferences. While the Bumblebee is favored for its bright acoustic output and exceptionally smooth action, the Sakura provides a feather-light touch and medium acoustics that make it pleasant for long typing durations. Ultimately, choosing between them depends on whether you prioritize sound and smoothness or lightweight performance and subtler acoustics.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is likely the better choice for you. It has a bottom out force of 50 grams that still feels light, making it suitable for those who enjoy a lively, tactile engagement without any bumps. On the other hand, if you expect to do extended typing sessions and need a truly feather-light touch, the Sakura switch, with its even lighter 45-gram bottom out force, may be your preferred option. It offers medium acoustics that strike a balance between quietness and audible response, perfect for long hours of work or gaming without causing fatigue. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and sound preferences, ensuring that you find the switch that best enhances your overall experience.
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