Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The Bumblebee Linear stands out for its exceptionally smooth typing experience paired with a bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more audible feedback while typing. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear shines as one of the most innovative options available, featuring a whisper-quiet topping-out sound combined with a clacky bottom-out sound. This switch provides a silky smooth typing feel without being overly polished, appealing to users who favor a more subdued auditory experience. Ultimately, whether you prioritize the engaging sound presence of the Bumblebee or the near-silent operation of the Jwick, both switches have much to offer. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, one of the most notable differences lies in the construction of their top housings. The Bumblebee Linear employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contributes to its uniquely pleasing auditory experience, favored for longer typing sessions where a softer noise level is preferred. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear uses a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, crisper sound. The increased stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate an upbeat auditory feedback from their keystrokes, particularly in environments where a more defined typing sound is preferred.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's inherent softness allows it to absorb more sound vibrations than harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Because both the Bumblebee Linear and the Semi-Silent Linear utilize nylon in their bottom housing, users can expect a similar tactile experience and sound quality from this component, regardless of the differences in top housings. This commonality means that while the overall sound profile of each switch may differ due to the contrast between POM and polycarbonate, the foundation of the typing experience remains consistent, with the nylon bottom providing a substantial base sound.
In summary, while the housing materials of the Bumblebee Linear and Semi-Silent Linear create distinct overall sounds, there are also shared qualities that lead to a comparable typing experience. The differing characteristics of the POM and polycarbonate top housings dictate the auditory perception of each switch, yet the nylon bottom housing ensures a depth and richness in sound that is felt across both models. Therefore, users may choose their switch based on desired sound traits and aesthetics, knowing they will still benefit from the classic sound profile provided by the nylon bottom, creating a balance in their typing experience regardless of the switch's unique characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear exhibits a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, which facilitates a more comfortable typing experience, particularly for prolonged use, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear switch does not have a specified actuation force, but it does feature a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, suggesting a more substantial feel when pressing down fully. This heavier force could be appealing to users who prefer a stronger tactile feedback in their typing experience. As such, while the Bumblebee Linear is the lighter option overall, favoring users who prioritize ease of use, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, with its undefined actuation force and heavier bottom out, caters to those seeking a more robust response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, the Bumblebee Linear offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This indicates that the Bumblebee switch is the shorter of the two, which may appeal to gamers and users seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the longer 3.7 mm travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear switch may provide a more substantial feel, catering to those who prefer greater key depth. Thus, users who prioritize faster key actuation would likely gravitate towards the Bumblebee switch, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press might prefer the Semi-Silent option. Overall, the choice between the two hinges on whether one values speed and responsiveness or prefers a more traditional and hearty typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
The sound profile of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is characterized by its bright tone, delivering a more pronounced auditory feedback during use. This brightness can add an engaging element to typing, making it feel lively and responsive. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a much more subdued auditory experience, with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound complemented by a clacky bottom-out sound. This unique combination allows the Semi-Silent switch to deliver a more muted sound overall, providing a pleasant sound signature without being too distracting. While both switches contribute to an enjoyable typing experience, the Bumblebee provides a more vibrant auditory environment, whereas the Semi-Silent caters to those looking for a more discreet option.
When considering feel, the Bumblebee Linear is noted for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, creating a seamless transition during keystrokes, which many typists seek for long periods of use. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch brings a diverse range of tactile sensations, including a mild typing experience that is easy to approach. Additionally, it features a snappy responsiveness due to its construction, lending a more dynamic feel. The buttery and polished descriptors attributed to the Semi-Silent highlight a refined and fluid keystroke, making the overall typing engagement both smooth and responsive. In contrast, the Bumblebee's smooth feel may appeal more to those who enjoy an uninterrupted typing action without extra tactile feedback.
Overall, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches cater to different preferences while living up to their linear classification. The Bumblebee offers a standout auditory experience with its bright sound and exceptionally smooth keystrokes, perfect for those who appreciate a lively typing environment. Meanwhile, the Semi-Silent excels in providing a more restrained sound profile coupled with a versatile feel that balances subtleness and responsiveness. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and tactile sensation, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch, showcasing the variety and customization potential available in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and your intended use case. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a bright sound profile with an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Bumblebee Linear is ideal for you. It’s particularly suited for gaming or casual typing where a quick response is paramount, and the liveliness of the switch can enhance your overall experience. On the other hand, if you’re in a shared working environment or prefer a more subdued typing experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch may be more appropriate. Its medium bottom-out force and whisper-quiet topping-out sound provide a balance between a tactile feel and sound dampening, making it versatile for both casual typists and serious workers alike. In essence, consider the Bumblebee for a vivid, energetic feel, and opt for the Semi-Silent Linear when you need a more discreet and versatile switch without sacrificing typing satisfaction.
Mentioned in this article
