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Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB can significantly influence your typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear switch is revered for its exceptionally smooth actuation, making it an excellent choice for users who seek a fluid and uninterrupted keystroke experience. Its bright sound profile complements the swift typing action, making it particularly appealing for gamers and typists who appreciate a noisier feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch is a tactile option that offers a delightful combination of a pronounced "thock" sound when bottoming out and a quiet, stealthy topping out, paired with a sharp tactile bump. This makes it ideal for those who value sensory feedback and a more luxurious typing experience, without sacrificing subtlety. 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

65g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

N/A

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

POM

Top housing material

POM

Top housing material

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

21mm single-staged spring

Spring

Stainless steel Korean spring

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, it is vital to note the distinct materials utilized in their designs that both influence sound and typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, which is known for creating a uniquely muted sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. This characteristic sound results from POM's specific acoustic properties, which accentuate the richness of the key presses. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB boasts a proprietary blend often referred to as "boba plastic" for its top housing. This material is designed to deliver a similarly rich and deeper sound experience, thanks to its notable softness. While both housing types strive for a full-bodied acoustic profile, the Bumblebee Linear uses POM's more traditional qualities, whereas the U4Tx RGB capitalizes on its proprietary composition.

The differences in bottom housing materials further highlight unique attributes of these switches. The Bumblebee Linear utilizes a nylon bottom housing, celebrated for its classic appeal and sound qualities. The nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound effectively, leading to a fuller and more rounded acoustic experience when typing. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB incorporates the very same proprietary Gazzew blend as its bottom housing, ensuring that its sonic properties remain consistent across both the top and bottom. Much like the top housing, this blend’s softness contributes to the depth of sound created when bottoming out a key, making it easier for users who favor a cohesive auditory experience. The result is that these two models, while distinctly different in housing materials, aim for a similar sound-absorbing outcome.

Ultimately, while the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB utilize varying materials for their housings, they can yield comparable results in terms of sound quality. The impact of the bottom housing on the typing experience is significant, especially during key presses. Given that both switches aim for deeper, richer sound profiles, users can expect a satisfying typing experience whether they opt for the POM and nylon combination of the Bumblebee Linear or the homogeneous "boba plastic" blend of the U4Tx RGB. Despite the differences in materials, the focus on sonic depth and an engaging typing sensation aligns closely, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to choose based on preference of material rather than sound performance alone.

Weight

The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch present a notable contrast in actuation and bottom out forces, reflecting different user preferences. The Bumblebee Linear switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that is easier on the fingers, ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switch has no specified actuation force but boasts a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This discrepancy indicates that the U4Tx RGB may provide a more substantial typing experience, catering to users who appreciate a firmer push feel. Ultimately, for those seeking lighter switches, the Bumblebee Linear is the clear choice, while the U4Tx RGB appeals to those who prefer a heavier switch for a more tactile feedback experience.

Travel distance

Both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that users will experience the same distance when pressing down on the keys. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches offer a consistent tactile experience for typists and gamers alike. Consequently, if you're seeking a key feel based on travel distance, you can expect similar results from both the Bumblebee Linear and the U4Tx RGB, allowing for seamless transitions between the two switches without any adjustment in how far you need to press down.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

For 10 switches, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear comes in at $2.99, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx RGB comes in at $6.50.

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 delivers a bright sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience, creating an engaging auditory feedback as you type. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch, on the other hand, pairs the deep "thock" associated with its bottoming out action and the subdued quiet of its topping out, resulting in a refined sound profile that is both satisfying and discreet. While the Bumblebee Linear tends towards a crisper sound, the U4Tx offers a more nuanced audio experience which may appeal to those who prefer a combination of rich and subtle tones. It's important to remember that the overall sound of each switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard construction and keycap materials.

When assessing the feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is renowned for providing an exceptionally smooth experience with each keystroke, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers looking for fluidity without any resistance. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch is characterized by its tactile bump, which adds a pleasurable tactile feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and engagement, offering a luxurious feel to each press. While the Bumblebee Linear focuses on uninterrupted smoothness, the U4Tx incorporates tactile feedback for those who enjoy a pronounced sensation during typing.

In conclusion, while both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to different preferences, they each shine in their own right. The Bumblebee Linear excels in delivering a smooth and bright auditory experience, making it a dream for fast-paced typists, while the U4Tx RGB provides a satisfying combination of deep thock sounds and tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and brightness or tactile engagement and sound depth in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch really hinges on your personal typing preferences and intended use cases. If you're looking for a smooth and light typing experience with a softer bottom-out force of 50 grams, then the Bumblebee Linear switch is an excellent option, especially if you enjoy a brighter sound profile and prioritize speed, suitable for fast typing or gaming scenarios. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more tactile feel with a satisfying "thock" sound upon bottoming out, the U4Tx RGB, with its medium-heavy 65-gram bottom-out force, offers a richer auditory feedback and a pronounced tactile bump, making it ideal for those who want a luxurious typing experience, especially for typing-intensive tasks or for those who enjoy a more deliberate typing style. Ultimately, your decision will depend on whether you prefer light and smooth linear action or a heavier, tactile response that enhances your typing experience.

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