Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is revered for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, complemented by a bright and engaging sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy the auditory feedback of their keystrokes. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte switch boasts a super smooth action, utilizing the latest molds from Huano for a polished feel, and offers a balanced sound profile that strikes a comfortable middle ground—neither too quiet nor overly resonant. While both switches excel in providing smooth linear feedback, the Bumblebee's vibrant sound may be more appealing for those looking for a lively typing experience, whereas the Strawberry Latte may suit users who prefer a more nuanced auditory landscape. 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
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
Standard
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Strawberry Latte, notable differences emerge, particularly in the material used for the top housing. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for its ability to produce a uniquely pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte utilizes POK (polyketone), which not only provides a smooth typing experience due to its low friction coefficient but also produces a sound that leans towards being clacky and resonant. While both materials contribute to the auditory experience, the Bumblebee Linear's POM brings a softness to the acoustic signature, whereas the POK in the Strawberry Latte helps achieve a sharper and more vibrant auditory response.
On the bottom housing side, both switches employ nylon, which creates a fuller sound profile and a muted acoustic character during typing. Given that nylon is a softer plastic, it effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and rounder sound output. Here, the Bumblebee Linear and the Strawberry Latte align perfectly; they share the same bottom housing material, allowing them to produce similar sound characteristics when bottoming out. The use of nylon ensures consistency in the auditory feedback felt by users across both models, reinforcing the classic nature of this material in mechanical switches and emphasizing the warm timbre that many typists appreciate.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials results in distinct sound profiles, but the shared nylon bottom ensures a deeply satisfying and comparable bottom-out experience. The Bumblebee Linear offers a unique sound signature due to its POM top, while the Strawberry Latte's POK top provides a contrast with a sharper acoustic output. Thus, while their tops diverge in material and resultant sound properties, the consistency offered by the nylon bottom housing means that, at the very least, users can expect a relatable and familiar experience in terms of bottom-out feedback—a foundational aspect appreciated by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte Linear switch both feature relatively light force characteristics, appealing to users who prefer a softer typing experience for extended periods. The Bumblebee Linear has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Strawberry Latte is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Strawberry Latte is the lighter option, providing an even more effortless keystroke, making it suitable for long gaming sessions or extended typing without fatigue. In contrast, the Bumblebee, being a bit heavier, offers a more pronounced feel upon actuation and bottoming out, which may be preferable for those seeking a more tactile typing experience. Essentially, both switches provide a light touch, but the Strawberry Latte stands out as the easier option in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this regard. As a result, users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of both switches. Given that the travel distances are the same, the feel and response during typing or gaming are likely to be quite comparable, providing a uniform performance across both switch types.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch delivers a bright sound profile that complements its exceptionally smooth typing experience. This makes it quite pleasant for typists who enjoy an engaging auditory feedback. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch offers a balanced sound profile that strikes a middle ground; it is neither too quiet nor overly resonant. This characteristic allows for a more moderated auditory experience, which might appeal to users who prefer a less pronounced sound while typing. It’s important to note that the overall sound of either switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both switches shine in their performance; the Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it a favorite among those who want effortless keystrokes. The Strawberry Latte, on the other hand, is also noted for being super smooth, utilizing the latest molds from Huano. This focus on smoothness means that both switches offer an enjoyable and fluid typing experience, catering to users who prioritize ease of use in their mechanical keyboards.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches provide smoothness that enhances the overall typing experience, making them suitable choices for enthusiasts. While the Bumblebee Linear features a brighter sound profile, the Strawberry Latte presents a more balanced acoustic experience. Ultimately, your choice may come down to personal preference regarding sound aesthetics, as both switches will deliver a notably smooth feel, ensuring satisfying performance whether at work or during leisure typing sessions.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte Linear switch, consider your personal preferences in typing feel and sound profile. If you seek a bright, engaging auditory experience paired with an exceptionally smooth typing sensation, the Bumblebee Linear—with its 50-gram bottom out force—may be the better option for you. This switch is excellent for those who enjoy a bit of feedback in their keystrokes while still appreciating a light touch. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter actuation with a 45-gram bottom out force, along with a balanced sound profile that isn't too loud or too soft, the Strawberry Latte would be a great choice. Known for its super smooth operation thanks to advanced molding techniques, it offers a refined typing experience without the aggressive sound that some users find off-putting. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a more vibrant auditory feedback or a quieter, yet smooth typing experience.
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