Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Viola Tricolor represent two distinct yet appealing options catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes and bright sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who seek a seamless and uninterrupted typing experience without the distraction of tactile bumps. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor stands out with its thuddy and punchy sound, paired with pronounced tactility that delivers satisfying feedback without being overly intrusive. This tactile switch offers a unique auditory and sensory experience that many users find invigorating and engaging. Therefore, while the Bumblebee Linear may appeal more to minimalist typists looking for fluidity, the Viola Tricolor is perfect for those who crave a more dynamic and expressive typing experience. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Viola Tricolor feature distinct top housing materials, each influencing the sound profile of the switches in unique ways. The Bumblebee Linear utilizes a polyoxymethylene (POM) top housing, which is noted for producing a deeper, more muted sound. This sound characteristic is particularly suited for users who prefer a less piercing auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor employs a polycarbonate top housing, which yields a sharper and more crisper sound profile. This difference arises from the inherent properties of the materials: while POM allows for a more subdued resonance, polycarbonate's rigidity enhances clarity and brightness. As a result, users can expect quite different auditory feedback depending on which switch they choose, emphasizing the distinct characteristics each material offers.
Both the Bumblebee Linear and the Viola Tricolor utilize nylon for their bottom housing, bringing a level of consistency in their sound profiles despite the differences in their top housings. Nylon is known for its softer texture, allowing it to absorb sound effectively, which provides a deeper, fuller auditory experience. This shared bottom housing material ensures that both switches produce a similar rounded sound, softening the impact of each keystroke. However, the overall sound experience remains affected by the contrasting top housings, meaning that while the base sound signature is deeper and more muted in both cases, the overall typing experience diverges significantly due to the unique contributions of each top housing material.
In summary, the combination of differing top housings and matching bottom housings in the Bumblebee Linear and the Viola Tricolor creates a nuanced auditory landscape. The POM top of the Bumblebee Linear adds a softer, deeper tonal quality, while the polycarbonate top of the Viola Tricolor allows for a sharper, more resonant experience. The nylon bottom housing common to both ensures a solid foundation for the typing sound, adding depth across both switches. Therefore, while users may attain a similarly full-bodied sound experience with both options, the unique characteristics imparted by their respective top housings ultimately culminate in distinctly different sound profiles and tactile experiences.
Weight
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch differ significantly in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Bumblebee Linear has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter switch that allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, while the actuation force for the Viola Tricolor is unspecified, its bottom out force is significantly heavier at 63.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. This suggests that the Viola Tricolor may provide a more substantial feel for those who favor a stronger push, enhancing the tactile experience. Therefore, if you're seeking a lighter switch, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear is the clear choice, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor is better suited for those who appreciate a heavier action.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Bumblebee Linear is the shorter of the two, making it a more responsive option for gamers who favor quicker keypress reactions. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience during typing, providing a deeper feel with each keypress. While both switches offer distinct advantages depending on user preference, those looking for a rapid response time may find the Bumblebee Linear more suitable, whereas individuals who enjoy a more substantial key feel might prefer the Viola Tricolor.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 characterized by its bright and clear tones, creating an uplifting auditory experience that contributes positively to overall typing satisfaction. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch offers a more bassy and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and richer auditory experience with each keystroke. This thuddiness can add a distinctive character to typing, making it feel more engaging and textured. While both switches produce appealing sounds, the Bumblebee’s brightness contrasts with the Viola’s depth, resulting in different auditory environments that can dramatically affect the typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear is known for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid transitions between keystrokes without any interruptions. This makes it particularly enjoyable for those who prefer a seamless and lightweight action. In stark contrast, the Viola Tricolor provides a pronounced tactile feedback that lies in the realm of medium tactility. The invigorating sensation, characterized by its snappy reaction and moderate to firm actuation force, gives typists a conscious connection to each press. While the Bumblebee Linear focuses on a smooth and unimpeded feel, the Viola Tricolor incorporates tactile elements that make typing feel more interactive and responsive.
In summary, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Bumblebee excels with a bright sound and smooth feel, ideal for those seeking effortless typing. Meanwhile, the Viola Tricolor appeals with its deeper sound profile and tactile engagement, making it suitable for users who enjoy some feedback while typing. Ultimately, your choice between them will come down to whether you prioritize smoothness and brightness or depth and tactile sensation in your keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch will largely depend on your personal typing preferences and what you value most in your keyboard experience. If you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke and a brighter sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent option. This switch is ideal for fast typists or gamers who appreciate rapid inputs without the distraction of any tactile bumps. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced feedback and a rich, thuddy sound, then the Viola Tricolor will likely suit your needs better. Its medium-heavy actuation force offers a satisfying tactile response that enhances typing pleasure, making it a great choice for writers or users who revel in the tactile and acoustic aspects of their keyboard. Ultimately, consider the style of typing you do most often, as well as whether you prioritize sound or feel, to make the best decision for your setup.
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