Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly impact your typing experience. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is renowned for its exceptionally smooth action, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize fluid keystrokes and a bright sound profile. This linear switch is ideal for gamers and typists looking for seamless key presses without any tactile resistance that can interrupt their flow. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a different approach, featuring a medium bump that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke, reminiscent of rain falling on a window. The T1 is praised for its comfort, making it a favorite among typists who appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience. Both switches cater to distinct preferences—whether you lean towards the smooth, uninterrupted feel of the Bumblebee Linear or the engaging tactile feedback of the T1. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Durock T1 switches, significant differences emerge, particularly between their top housing compositions. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing that produces a deep and muted sound profile, offering a unique tactile experience. In contrast, the T1 employs a polycarbonate top housing, which yields a sharper, crisper sound, creating a brighter acoustic profile. This distinction lies in the physical properties of the materials themselves—polycarbonate's stiffer structure enhances clarity and resonance while POM's properties lend a softer, more rounded auditory experience. Therefore, when using these switches, the Bumblebee Linear will evoke a warm and subdued ambiance, whereas the Durock T1 will bring forth a more vibrant and lively sound.
Both switches share the same nylon material for their bottom housing, which significantly influences the acoustic results during use. Nylon is well-regarded for crafting a deeper and fuller sound profile as it effectively absorbs sound vibrations, leading to a rich auditory experience. Whether in the Bumblebee Linear or the T1, this nylon composition ensures that the switches maintain a consistent foundational quality in terms of sound—resulting in a duller and rounder sound signature. This shared property showcases nylon's versatility and reliability as a classic switch housing material, ensuring users can expect a similarly deep acoustic response from both switches despite their differing top housings.
Ultimately, the interplay between the different housing materials combines to create distinct functionalities in each switch. The contrasting properties of the POM and polycarbonate top housings shape the sound when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom housing solidifies the deeper sound experience upon actuation. Users who prioritize a unique auditory experience may lean towards the Bumblebee Linear for its subdued tones, while those who favor a sharper sound may prefer the Durock T1. However, given the identical material of the bottom housings, both types showcase the deep and rounded sound profile characteristic of nylon, illustrating how the combination of housing materials contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bumblebee Linear features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it well-suited for long typing sessions or extended gaming, as the lighter force can minimize finger fatigue. In contrast, the Durock T1 switch has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, suggesting a more robust typing experience that may appeal to users who prefer a firmer feel under their fingers. This disparity indicates that, while both switches have a bottom out force, the Bumblebee is lighter overall, catering to a user base that values ease of use and comfort. Those seeking a more substantial tactile experience may lean towards the T1, despite its unmeasured actuation force, as its higher bottom out force provides a firmer resistance.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Bumblebee Linear the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker key actuation. In contrast, the Durock T1, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, provides a more substantial depth that some users might find more satisfying and less abrupt when pressing the keys. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference, depending on whether the user values a quicker response or a more traditional, hearty feel in key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 noted for its bright sound profile, which suggests a clarity and perhaps a sharper tone when typing. This sound can offer an engaging auditory feedback that some users may find energizing. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch is characterized by its low-pitched sound, which is typically more bass-heavy and mellow. The auditory experience of typing on the T1 can be reminiscent of rain falling on a window, creating a soothing atmosphere during use. Ultimately, while these two switches offer distinct sound profiles—one bright and potentially more vibrant, the other soft and comforting—they can both be influenced by the keyboard’s construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience, which is a hallmark of linear switches. This smoothness allows for effortless keystrokes without any tactile bumps or interruptions, catering to users who enjoy fluid typing. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch features a stepped design, presenting a medium bump that strikes a balance between comfort and feedback. Users can expect a tactile sensation that is accentuated without being overwhelming, making it suitable for those who want to feel a physical response during typing. The T1's polished finish adds an element of refined smoothness to each press, reducing friction and enhancing overall comfort. In summary, while the Bumblebee Linear focuses on smoothness, the T1 offers a blend of pronounced tactility and refined texture.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Durock T1 switches present unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Bumblebee Linear excels in providing a bright sound and a fluid typing sensation ideal for those who want an uninterrupted experience. Meanwhile, the Durock T1 combines a mellow auditory feedback with a pleasant tactile bump, offering a comfortable compromise for tactile switch enthusiasts. Each type of switch can fulfill distinct needs, enabling the user to choose based on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Durock T1 tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light touch and a smooth experience while typing, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice, especially for fast-paced typing and gaming scenarios where fluid keystrokes are essential. Its 50 grams of force makes each press feel effortless, and the bright sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory layer to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience, the T1 switches might be more suitable for you. Their medium-heavy 67 grams of force provides a satisfying resistance, and the stepped tactile bump gives you a clear indication of actuation without being too aggressive. The low-pitched sound of the T1 is reminiscent of rain falling, making it a comforting option for quieter environments. In essence, go with the Bumblebee Linear for smooth, rapid input and a lighter feel, while opting for the T1 for a more substantial typing experience with tactile nuance. Each switch offers distinct advantages, ensuring that whichever you choose will cater to your specific needs and preferences.
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