Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX SU offer appealing yet distinct experiences for users who prefer linear switches. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a light and responsive feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX SU features a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, providing a subtle, relatively deep sound profile that caters to users seeking a more muted acoustic experience. While both switches excel in their own right, your preference may hinge upon whether you prioritize clarity and brightness or a quieter, deeper acoustic environment. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

HMX SU Linear

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX SU, a notable difference can be observed in their top housings. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, which contributes to its unique sound profile, characterized by a deeper and more muted tone. In contrast, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its classic properties that deliver a similarly deep and fuller sound. Despite being made of different materials, both switches produce a sound profile that leans towards a rounded depth, and thus, users can expect somewhat comparable auditory experiences when typing on each switch, particularly in how each's top housing influences the sound upon key release.

Moving to the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon for their construction. This consistency means that when it comes to the sound and feel produced during a key press, users will find that both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX SU share similar characteristics. The softness of the nylon bottom housing in both switches aids in absorbing sound, which leads to a duller and rounder auditory experience upon bottoming out. As the material properties are identical, users can expect a shared tactile richness and fullness from the key press, enhancing the overall typing experience for both options.

In summary, while the top housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX SU differ, their respective bottom housings are both made of nylon, leading to an equivalent typing sensation and sound profile during key presses. The POM top housing’s unique properties and nylon bottom housing's classic softness result in a hybrid sound experience where the distinct qualities of each switch's housing material are clearly delineated. Thus, even with their differences, both switches are engineered to deliver a rich auditory and tactile experience that will satisfy those looking for a deep and muted sound in their mechanical keyboards.

Weight

Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch have comparable specifications, featuring an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which categorizes them as light switches. Since both switches share the same actuation and bottom out forces, users can expect a similar typing experience with respect to the force required to register keystrokes and to bottom out the switches. This consistency makes either switch a great option for prolonged use, such as during long typing sessions at work or intense gaming marathons, as the lighter force helps reduce finger fatigue. Overall, with both switches weighing in equally on the force scale, users can choose either without compromising on comfort or performance.

Travel distance

Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch feature identical travel distances of 3.6 mm, meaning that users should experience similar actuation results when pressing down on these keys. This equal travel distance ensures comparable tactile feedback and responsiveness, making both switches equally suitable for those who prefer a consistent experience across their keyboard. Therefore, whether opting for the Bumblebee or the SU, users can expect the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in a uniform feel during use.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is known for its bright sound profile, which can add a lively character to your typing experience. This contrast with the HMX SU linear switch, which produces a subtle and relatively deep sound profile. The differences in sound can be influenced by various external factors including the type of keyboard and keycaps used, but in general, the Bumblebee Linear may create a more pronounced auditory feedback while the SU offers a more muted and deeper tone.

In terms of feel, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience, which is a stark advantage for those who prioritize fluid keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch, while also a linear option, is less described in detail regarding its tactile feedback or smoothness. Therefore, while both switches are linear and share an overall smooth character, the Bumblebee’s superior smoothness may appeal more to enthusiasts who enjoy an uninterrupted keypress.

In conclusion, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX SU linear switches present distinct audio experiences, with the Bumblebee offering a bright sound and the SU delivering a subtle, deep tone. The Bumblebee model also stands out with its notably smooth feel during typing. While both switches share the linear classification, their individual qualities cater to different preferences. If you’re looking for a lively sound and exceptional smoothness, the Bumblebee may be the better choice, whereas the SU switch could serve those who prefer a more understated auditory experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you’re seeking an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a bright sound profile that can elevate your typing or gaming sessions, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice. Its light actuation force makes it particularly suited for rapid key presses, which is ideal if you prioritize speed and responsiveness. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtly deeper sound alongside a satisfying tactile experience, the HMX SU switch might be more appealing. Its full PA12 housing and consistent performance can provide a solid build quality and a well-rounded typing experience, making it suitable for long typing sessions or productivity-focused environments. Ultimately, consider your individual needs—whether they lean more towards the brightness and smoothness of the Bumblebee or the depth and sturdiness of the SU—before making your selection.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Bumblebee Linear Linear

$2.99 per 10

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HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more