Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the TTC Silent Brown. The Bumblebee Linear switch is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, which is enhanced by a bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who value fluidity and noise. This linear switch allows for seamless key presses without any tactile feedback, catering to those who prefer a straightforward typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a comfortable typing experience characterized by a light to medium level of resistance and a gratifying rounded tactile bump, perfect for typists who appreciate feeling a response with each key press. Additionally, the Silent Brown's muted sound profile ensures a quieter operation, ideal for shared spaces or late-night use. Both switches have their unique advantages, with the Bumblebee Linear enticing those who seek smoothness and a brighter sound, while the Silent Brown appeals to users who favor tactile feedback and a quieter experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and TTC Silent Brown switches present a fascinating contrast, particularly in their top housing compositions. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing that contributes to a sound profile described as deeper and more muted. This material is known for creating a unique auditory experience that leans towards a warmer timbre, making it appealing for those who prefer a less sharp sound when typing. In stark contrast, the Silent Brown switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enables a clearer resonance, which can be especially beneficial for users who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback during their typing sessions. The visual aspect also differs significantly; polycarbonate housings are typically clear and make RGB lighting more visually appealing, allowing for dynamic lighting effects through the switches.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a level of uniformity between the two models, as both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and TTC Silent Brown utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is a traditional choice for switch housing, and its inherent qualities yield a deeper and fuller sound profile. Users can expect a uniform experience when it comes to sound absorption since nylon is a softer plastic that effectively muffles the noise, resulting in a more subdued auditory feedback. Therefore, while the top housings diverge significantly in both sound characteristics and visual aesthetics, the use of nylon in the bottom housings ensures that both switches share a foundation that promotes a warm and enveloping sound.
Together, these materials create unique sound profiles that ultimately shape the typing experience. The distinct qualities of the POM and polycarbonate top housings influence the sound when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall tactile feedback and bottom-out sound for both switches. Despite the differing top materials, users can still experience a balanced auditory response if they prefer a warmer sound while typing, as the nylon bottom housing resonates similarly in both instances. As such, those who appreciate the characteristics of either switch will find that the acoustic interplay between the top and bottom housings creates a cohesive experience, even if the individual components present contrasting auditory traits.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have an identical actuation force of 45 grams, which means users will experience similar effort when triggering a keystroke, making them both suitable for extended typing sessions. However, the bottom out forces vary significantly: the Bumblebee Linear has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Brown requires a heavier 63.5 grams. Consequently, the Bumblebee Linear switch is lighter overall, making it more comfortable for prolonged use, while the Silent Brown switch caters to those who prefer a more substantial feel with a heavier bottoming-out experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter, more effortless action or a firmer tactile response during typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the Bsun Bumblebee features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference may impact your typing experience: if you favor a quicker response time, the Bumblebee Linear's shorter travel distance may be more appealing, especially for gaming. Conversely, the Silent Brown's extra 0.2 mm could provide a more pronounced feel with each keypress, catering to those who prefer a deeper tactile sensation. Thus, while both switches offer distinct experiences, the Bumblebee Linear is the more responsive option, and the Silent Brown provides a more robust depth in key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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 is characterized by a bright sound profile, which can offer a more pronounced audio feedback that caters to those who appreciate the auditory experience of typing. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch presents a muted sound profile, designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This characteristic makes the Silent Brown an ideal choice for environments where discretion is key, as it allows for quieter typing without compromising on the mechanical feel.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the Bumblebee Linear excels in providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. The absence of tactile bumps allows for a seamless key press, making it a favorite among typists who prefer an uninterrupted and fluid keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Brown tactile switch offers a unique typing sensation marked by a satisfying rounded tactile bump, striking a balance with a light to medium resistance that caters to typists looking for feedback without being too aggressive. Furthermore, the Silent Brown is described as buttery, mild, and polished, ensuring a refined feel that enhances typing comfort and reduces fatigue over extended use.
Overall, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and TTC Silent Brown tactile switch cater to slightly different preferences in sound and feel, users can choose based on their individual typing experience desires. Those who appreciate a bright sound and a smooth feel may gravitate towards the Bumblebee Linear, while those preferring a quieter, tactile feedback will likely favor the Silent Brown. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying experiences but tap into different elements of the mechanical keyboard landscape, allowing users to find their ideal match according to their specific needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a light touch and seek a fluid, uninterrupted typing experience, the Bumblebee Linear may be the ideal choice for you. It's especially well-suited for rapid typing or gaming, where smooth actuation and response time can enhance performance. The bright sound profile can also be engaging if you enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance and appreciate tactile feedback, the TTC Silent Brown could be the better option. Its medium-heavy actuation force combined with a satisfying tactile bump provides a comforting and deliberate typing experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more traditional feel while minimizing noise with its muted sound profile. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style, whether you value speed and smoothness or tactile satisfaction, to make the most suitable choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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