Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Sunset Gleam, both of which excel in different aspects of the typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth operation and a bright sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize an effortless keystroke and are drawn to auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also referred to as the Duck Duck switch, strikes a harmonious balance of materials that delivers a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, along with the excellent factory lubrication that HMX is recognized for. While the Bumblebee Linear might cater to users who seek a more refined and quiet typing sensation, the Sunset Gleam caters to those who enjoy a slightly more tactile feedback with its distinctive sound. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Sunset Gleam highlight distinct characteristics that contribute to each switch's unique sound profile. The Bumblebee Linear incorporates a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for its ability to create a deeper and more muted sound. This characteristic contrasts sharply with the Sunset Gleam's polycarbonate top housing, which is notably stiffer than POM. The polycarbonate material emphasizes a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a clearer and more resonant auditory experience. Thus, while both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, their differing top housing materials are crucial in shaping the tone and character of the sounds produced.
Regarding the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon, a classic material recognized for its acoustic properties. The nylon bottom housing in both the Bumblebee Linear and Sunset Gleam contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This shared characteristic bridges a connection between the two switches, despite their differences in top housing material. Both switches dampen sound effectively due to nylon's softer plastic quality, which absorbs sound waves and results in a duller and rounder auditory experience upon key press. This similarity in the bottom housing ensures that even with contrasting top housings, both switches deliver rich and satisfying feedback.
Ultimately, the differences in top housing materials between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Sunset Gleam illustrate how these choices can affect the overall sound signature of each switch. While the Bumblebee’s POM housing tempts users with its deeper and more muted tones, the Sunset Gleam provides a crisp and bright sound profile through its polycarbonate construction. Nevertheless, because both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, they retain a fundamental consistency in sound dynamics, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the unique characteristics each switch brings to the overall typing experience. Thus, users can choose based on personal preferences for sound while still enjoying a semblance of acoustic unity.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, both exhibit light force characteristics, but with slight differences in their specifications. The Bumblebee Linear features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam is even lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Sunset Gleam the lighter choice of the two, which may appeal to users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended work or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Bumblebee Linear, though also light, provides a marginally stronger feel when activating and bottoming out, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches share similar weights and characteristics, the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option, allowing for a potentially less fatiguing usage compared to the Bumblebee Linear.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Bumblebee is designed for a deeper feel, providing an extra 0.1 mm of travel which some users may find more satisfying, especially if they prefer that added sense of depth in their keypresses. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam, with its shorter travel distance, may be more appealing to gamers and those who prioritize quicker response times. Ultimately, this small difference in travel distance reflects personal preferences, where the Bumblebee Linear offers a more pronounced actuation, while the Sunset Gleam provides a slightly snappier feel with its shorter travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 that enhances the typing experience with a noticeable auditory feedback. This makes it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound during keystrokes. Meanwhile, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch is noted for its subtle top-out combined with a satisfying clack, thanks in part to the carefully chosen materials used in its construction. This switch strikes a balance, providing a pleasing auditory response without being overly loud. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound of a switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard's build, including the choice of materials for the board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, which is a hallmark of linear switches. This smoothness is complemented by the bright sound, creating an engaging typing sensation. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam is also designed to provide a satisfying tactile experience, largely due to its excellent factory lube, which adds an extra layer of smoothness and responsiveness during typing. Both switches prioritize a smooth feel, which can lead to a similarly enjoyable typing experience regardless of personal preference for sound.
In summary, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches bring unique qualities to the table. The Bumblebee enhances typing with its bright sound and smooth action, while the Sunset Gleam offers a well-rounded auditory experience with satisfying feedback and smooth performance. Ultimately, users seeking either a more pronounced sound or a balanced typing experience can find satisfaction in both options, as they prioritize smoothness in feel, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience regardless of the sound profile.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches largely depends on what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you value an exceptionally smooth typing feel coupled with a bright sonic profile, the Bumblebee Linear, with its slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, may be the ideal choice for you. This switch excels in delivering a fluid keystroke that minimizes resistance, making it especially suitable for prolonged typing sessions or fast-paced gaming, where responsiveness is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a perfect blend of subtle top-out feel and a satisfying clack, the HMX Sunset Gleam, which features a slightly lighter bottom out force of 48 grams, might be more to your liking. This switch's excellent factory lubrication enhances the overall smoothness while producing a more pronounced sound, ideal for users who appreciate auditory feedback during their key presses. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, so you should choose based on whether you lean towards a brighter sound and smoother feel with the Bumblebee or a more tactile experience with the Sunset Gleam.
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