Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Twilight offer unique characteristics for different typing experiences. The Bumblebee Linear is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes and a bright sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience and clear auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight stands out with its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which provides a slightly quieter sound while still retaining the clacky essence typical of HMX switches. While both switches fall under the linear category and are designed for smoothness in typing, their subtle differences in travel distance and acoustics can influence a user's preference significantly. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.85 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Twilight switches present both similarities and differences that create distinct auditory experiences for users. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, which is known for producing a unique sound profile that tends toward a deeper and more muted tone. In contrast, the Twilight employs a nylon top housing, a classic choice recognized for generating a fuller sound. While both materials are effective in delivering deeper sound profiles, the POM's harder composition tends to result in a more focused sound, while the nylon top absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder, softer auditory experience. This contrast in sound characteristics shapes the overall experience of using each switch.
Both the Bumblebee Linear and HMX Twilight utilize nylon as their bottom housing material, reinforcing their deeper sound profiles. The use of nylon in this capacity results in a similar auditory outcome, with both switches providing a rich and full typing experience due to the material's sound-absorbing nature. This shared design aspect ensures that, regardless of the differences in top housing materials, users will experience a consistent depth and richness in sound while typing. It highlights the importance of bottom housing in affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a unified experience across both switch types.
In summary, while the Bumblebee Linear and Twilight switches differ in their top housing materials—POM for the Bumblebee Linear and nylon for the Twilight—their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing leads to a similar sound profile characteristic. This interplay allows both switches to produce deeper, rounder sound signatures, thereby enhancing the overall user experience. By combining different materials, each switch maintains its unique touch and sound profile, while also ensuring a comparable auditory quality when engaged in use. Users can expect to enjoy the distinct attributes contributed by the unique top materials while benefiting from the rich and enveloping tones created by the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Twilight Linear switch, both exhibit relatively light actuation forces, with the Bumblebee at 45 grams and the Twilight slightly lighter at 42 grams. This means the Twilight switch requires less force to register a keystroke, making it a preferable option for those who type for extended periods or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. Both switches, however, share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, suggesting that while the initial keystroke is easier on the Twilight, the overall resistance at the bottom is equal for both switches. Therefore, users seeking a more tactile typing experience might lean towards the Bumblebee, while those who prioritize reduced actuation effort might favor the lighter Twilight option. Overall, the Bumblebee is the heavier of the two in terms of actuation force, while both switches provide the same bottom out experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch offer different travel distances, with the Bumblebee measuring 3.6 mm and the Twilight at 3.85 mm. This means that the Bumblebee switch has a shorter travel distance, making it potentially preferable for gamers seeking quicker response times and a more tactile feel in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Twilight switch may provide a more pronounced tactile experience, which could be favored by users who appreciate a deeper feedback while typing or gaming. The 3.85 mm travel distance allows for a greater depth, which some users might find more comfortable for prolonged use. Ultimately, the choice boils down to personal preference: if responsiveness is paramount, the Bumblebee Linear switch offers a shorter actuation, while the Twilight may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 known for its bright sound profile, which can add a distinct auditory signature to your typing experience. This brightness contributes to a more pronounced auditory feedback as you type. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch features an extended 3.85mm travel distance that results in a slightly quieter sound, though it still maintains the signature clacky characteristics that HMX switches are known for. While both switches can produce enjoyable sound signatures, the Bumblebee Linear leans towards a more pronounced and vibrant sound, whereas the Twilight allows for a more subdued auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless keystrokes that enthusiasts often prioritize. This smoothness can result in less finger fatigue during prolonged use, making it a comfortable option for typists and gamers alike. The HMX Twilight switch, on the other hand, is characterized by its extended travel distance, which may alter the tactile sensation during typing by feeling slightly heavier or more deliberate. While the Twilight maintains a level of smoothness characteristic of linear switches, its added travel distance might provide a different kind of experience, catering to those who prefer a more deliberate keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Twilight linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Bumblebee excels with its bright sound and exceptionally smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an engaging auditory experience alongside comfort. Conversely, the Twilight offers a quieter sound profile with a longer travel distance, which can suit individuals who prefer a more controlled typing experience. Ultimately, while they share the linear switch classification, their distinct characteristics provide ample options for anyone diving into the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch will ultimately depend on your specific preferences and typing habits. If you're seeking a wonderfully smooth typing experience with a brighter sound profile, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice; it’s particularly well-suited for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly quieter environment without sacrificing a satisfying tactile experience, the HMX Twilight linear switch—with its longer 3.85mm travel distance—offers an appealing blend of performance and reduced noise, making it ideal for office settings or quiet homes. Therefore, consider what you value most: the energetic tone and smooth feedback of the Bumblebee or the subdued and extended travel of the Twilight. Both switches provide a lightweight bottom out force, ensuring a comfortable typing experience, so it really comes down to your sound and feel preferences.
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