Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Bsun Tomcat both offer a unique typing experience, yet they cater to different preferences among users. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes and bright sound profile, making it an appealing option for those who appreciate auditory feedback as they type. On the other hand, the Tomcat switch boasts Ly stems that provide an equally smooth typing experience but with a resonant sound profile that may appeal to users seeking a more distinct acoustic signature. While both switches are linear and designed for uninterrupted keystrokes, the choice between them often comes down to personal sound preference and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Tomcat, notable differences arise between the top housings, while the bottom housings share similarities. The Bumblebee Linear features a top housing made of polyoxymethylene (POM), known for producing a deeper, more muted sound profile. This unique auditory experience is achieved through the plastic's inherent properties, which contribute to a rich and full sound when engaging the switches. In contrast, the Tomcat utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, providing a distinctive sound profile that caters to users seeking a more crisp auditory response. Additionally, the translucently of polycarbonate allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch.
Both the Bumblebee Linear and Tomcat feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which brings a level of consistency in acoustic performance to both switches. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material that inherently produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This softness allows the nylon housing to absorb vibrations more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while the top housing in each switch diverges in terms of material and sound characteristics, the bottom nylon housing ensures that both switches deliver a similar foundational auditory experience characterized by its rich tones.
In essence, even though the sound profiles of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Bsun Tomcat diverge due to their differing top housing materials, the presence of nylon bottoms provides a common ground. The contrasting properties of the top housings dictate the overall sound signature when pressing the switches, with the Bumblebee offering a more subdued response while the Tomcat projects a brighter sound. However, when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches rely on the acoustic qualities of the nylon material, yielding a similar auditory essence. This balance of different top housings and shared bottoming characteristics results in a comprehensive and versatile experience, catering to various preferences among users.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch to the Bsun Tomcat Linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive when it comes to initiating a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ, with the Bumblebee requiring 50 grams to bottom out, while the Tomcat necessitates a slightly heavier 54 grams. This disparity means that while both switches can be considered light in terms of actuation, the Tomcat offers a slightly heftier experience when fully pressed down. As a result, the Bumblebee Linear can be regarded as the lighter option, appealing to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, particularly for extended use, while the Tomcat provides just a bit more resistance for those who favor a more substantial feel in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom, resulting in a similar tactile feedback and keypress feel. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect comparable performance in terms of keystroke depth for both typing and gaming experiences. Thus, there is no shorter or longer switch between the two, as they are equal in this aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $2.99. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Bumblebee Linear and Tomcat.
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 its bright sound profile, which adds a lively auditory component to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switch is noted for a resonant sound profile that contributes depth and richness to each keystroke. While both switches offer unique sound characteristics, the overall auditory experience can be significantly influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and the type of keycaps used, meaning both switches can deliver satisfactory results depending on the setup.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it a joy for individuals who prioritize fluidity in their keystrokes. Similarly, the Tomcat switch utilizes Ly stems, which are specifically designed to enhance smoothness during typing as well. This suggests that both switches excel in delivering a comfortable and seamless tactile experience, catering well to enthusiasts seeking linear switches that feel effortless in use.
Overall, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Bsun Tomcat linear switches present appealing qualities for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. While the Bumblebee offers a bright sound and exceptionally smooth feel, the Tomcat stands out with a resonant sound and comparable smoothness. Ultimately, users looking for linear switches will find satisfaction in either option, as both are designed to provide smoothness and unique auditory feedback in their own right, making them excellent choices based on personal preference and keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Bsun Tomcat Linear switches, it’s essential to consider your personal preferences for actuation force, sound, and tactile feedback. If you prefer a lighter touch and crave an exceptionally smooth typing experience coupled with a brighter sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is your go-to option. Its 50-gram actuation force allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers who favor swift input. On the other hand, if you lean towards a slightly more substantial key press without sacrificing smoothness, the Tomcat Linear switch—with its 54-gram bottom-out force—offers a more balanced feel while still delivering a smooth typing experience. The Tomcat’s resonant sound profile is a delight for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what feels most comfortable for you and aligns with your typing or gaming needs; whether you favor the lighter Bumblebee or the slightly heavier Tomcat, both switches provide excellent performance for an engaging keyboard experience.
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