Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Taichi both offer unique characteristics that appeal to different types of users. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, combined with a bright sound profile that can enhance your overall typing enjoyment. This switch's linear design caters to those who favor a straightforward and fluid keystroke, making it an excellent option for typists seeking efficiency and comfort without the distraction of tactile feedback or audible clicks. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switch is distinguished by its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, a feature achieved through its long-pole stem and extended springs. This creates an engaging auditory feedback that, coupled with walled stems, delivers an unparalleled level of smoothness and stability. The Taichi's polished and clacky nature may resonate with users who appreciate both performance and an enjoyable acoustic experience while typing or gaming. 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
3.60 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
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Bsun Taichi switches showcase the diverse sonic characteristics that different housing materials can impart. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. This unique quality is attributed to POM's material properties, allowing it to create an incredibly pleasing sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Taichi utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the auditory experience but also makes it particularly advantageous for users who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their setups, leading to a visually appealing effect.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material that significantly influences the overall sound. With the nylon bottom housing on both the Bumblebee Linear and Taichi, typists will experience a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared characteristic stems from nylon's softer plastic properties, which absorb sound more effectively than harder materials. Consequently, both switches will deliver a similar duller and rounder sound, ensuring a harmonious auditory experience despite the differences in the top housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Taichi creates unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Bumblebee Linear leans toward a muted and deeper sound due to its POM top housing, the Taichi offers a brighter and sharper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Nonetheless, the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent and richer sound experience across both models. Users can enjoy the nuanced differences in auditory feedback while sharing a foundational sound quality that comes from the shared nylon material, leading to an immersive typing experience, no matter which switch they choose.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Bsun Taichi Linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force of the Taichi remains unknown. The Bumblebee Linear switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option suitable for long typing sessions and gaming marathons. In contrast, the Taichi offers an even lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which may appeal to users seeking a soft touch for extended use. However, the absence of a specified bottom out force for the Taichi limits our understanding of its overall tactile experience. Overall, while both switches cater to users who prefer lighter forces, the Bumblebee’s defined bottom out provides a more comprehensive feel, whereas the Taichi’s lack of data leaves its heavier feeling at the bottom uncertain.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in identical feedback and feel when pressing down on the keys. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect similar performance in terms of key actuation and overall typing experience. Whether utilizing the Bumblebee or the Taichi, the consistency in travel distance ensures that both switches offer a uniform experience, catering well to those who prefer a smooth and linear action.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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
The sound profile of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is noted for its bright qualities, providing a melodic and engaging auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch produces a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and distinctly percussive. This clackiness, often attributed to its high-pitched bottom-out note, may appeal to typists who enjoy a more pronounced feedback in their keystrokes. Ultimately, while both switches may deliver satisfying auditory experiences, the Bumblebee offers a softer, brighter sound while the Taichi provides a more dynamic and lively clack.
When it comes to the feel, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, suggesting minimal resistance and friction during keystrokes. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is crafted with a focus on unparalleled smoothness and stability, emphasizing a polished feel that enhances the typing experience. This is likely achieved through the use of a long-pole stem and extended springs. Both switches aim to provide a seamless and enjoyable keystroke, but the Taichi may have an edge in terms of a refined tactile experience due to its specially designed components.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Bsun Taichi linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that can cater to different preferences. While the Bumblebee is characterized by its bright sound and exceptionally smooth feel, the Taichi brings a more lively sound and a polished touch to the table. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, choosing between the two could boil down to your desired typing or gaming experience. Regardless of the choice, both switches promise a high-quality experience, making them worthy contenders in the mechanical keyboard landscape.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Taichi linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences in typing experience, sound, and the weight of key presses. If you prefer a lighter actuation with a bottom-out force of 50 grams and value an exceptionally smooth typing feel combined with a bright sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear may be the better choice for you. Its lighter touch can enhance your typing speed and reduce finger fatigue during long sessions. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more engaging auditory experience and enjoy that clacky, crisp sound when you type, the Taichi switch is likely to be more appealing. Its extended springs and walled stems not only contribute to a polished and refined feel but also ensure a stable performance. Ultimately, if you prioritize smoothness with a lively sound, go for the Taichi. However, if you would rather have a slightly muted experience with smoother key travel and no significant weight burden, the Bumblebee Linear could be your ideal match.
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