Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Dareu Sky POM offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its incredibly smooth typing feel and bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a seamless and consistent keypress without the interference of tactile bumps or audible clicks. Conversely, the Dareu Sky POM switch, made entirely from POM material, stands out for its clacky sound and a combination of buttery, low-pitched, creamy, and silky characteristics, appealing to users who enjoy auditory feedback and a gentle actuation force during typing. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, their distinct auditory and tactile qualities set them apart in terms of user 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Dareu Sky POM switches both utilize POM (Polyoxymethylene) for their top housing, resulting in notably similar sound profiles. These switches create an incredibly pleasing and unique auditory experience characterized by a deeper and relatively muted sound. The use of POM in the top housing ensures that both switches will deliver a sound that is not overly bright or sharp, instead leaning towards a more rounded acoustic signature. This consistency in materials allows users to expect a comparable auditory feedback when typing, as both designs share the same foundational characteristics that influence the overall sound.
When examining the bottom housing, both the Bumblebee Linear and Sky POM utilize nylon. This choice is significant, as nylon is known for its softer composition relative to other plastics, which contributes to a fuller and deeper sound during key presses. The nylon material absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller, rounder sound profile that enhances the typing experience. Since both switches employ nylon for the bottom housing, users can anticipate a similar tactile experience with a muted bottom-out sound. The full-bodied acoustic response is preserved across both models, making them suitable candidates for users who prefer richer sound signatures.
However, the way each switch integrates its housing materials can lead to subtle differences in the typing experience. While both top and bottom housings share similar materials, the specific interplay of these components affects the overall feel during key presses and releases. The POM top housing's contribution dominates the sound when releasing the key, while the nylon bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. Thus, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Dareu Sky POM switches are built from the same quality materials, the nuances in their design can create distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences, allowing for personalized choices in tactile feedback and acoustic signature.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch exhibit some differences in their actuation forces, which significantly impacts user experience. The Bumblebee Linear requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light switch overall. In contrast, the Sky POM has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams, although its bottom out force is not available, making a direct comparison difficult. With the Bumblebee being heavier at the bottom out force, users who prefer a more substantial typing feel may find the Bumblebee Linear more satisfying. Conversely, the lighter actuation force of the Sky POM could appeal to those seeking a switch that allows for longer typing sessions with less strain. Ultimately, if the bottom out force of the Dareu model were known and found to be similar to the Bumblebee, users could expect a similar typing experience in terms of bottoming out, though the actuation forces still indicate the Sky POM is the lighter option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, the differences are quite distinct. The Bumblebee Linear features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sky POM has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Bumblebee switch offers a shorter distance in comparison, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster responsiveness and quicker actuation. Conversely, the Sky POM's longer travel distance may be preferable for those who enjoy a more pronounced feeling of depth and feedback when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize rapid execution or a more substantial typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 considering the sound profile of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch, one can expect a bright sound that adds a lively character to the typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is characterized by a deeper, low-pitched sound that tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow. While the Bumblebee's brightness may appeal to those who enjoy a more upbeat auditory feedback, the Sky POM's clackiness can provide a satisfying auditory experience that resonates deeply with users who prefer a more pronounced sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two can depend on personal preference; however, both switches may exhibit variations in sound based on the keyboard they are mounted in and the keycaps used.
The feel of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear is noted for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, providing a seamless transition from keypress to keypress. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is often described using terms like buttery, creamy, and silky, indicating a typing experience that is notably fluid and effortless. This suggests that the Sky POM may offer an even more refined tactile sensation than the Bumblebee. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke and an easy-going typing experience, you might find that both switches cater to comfort, albeit with the Sky POM providing a slightly more luxurious feel.
In summary, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is recognized for its bright sound and smooth feel, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out with its clacky, low-pitched sound and exceptionally buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Both switches offer a unique set of qualities that can cater to different typing preferences; choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prefer a more vibrant auditory feedback or a deeper, mellower tone, combined with the level of smoothness you desire in your keystrokes.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and key resistance. If you favor a lighter actuation force and a bright sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear with its 50-gram bottom-out force could be the ideal choice for you. It provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience that is perfect for long typing sessions, whether for gaming or writing. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound paired with a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, the Dareu Sky POM switch will likely suit you better. Its unique POM material offers a smooth and fluid keystroke, which can enhance your typing dynamics and responsiveness. Ultimately, consider how you prioritize sound characteristics and tactile sensations when making your decision, as both options present compelling features tailored to different typing experiences.