Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both offer distinct attributes that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an appealing option for those who prioritize a seamless keystroke while enjoying a slightly more pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) brings a heavier touch and a refined acoustic quality, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, which together deliver crisp, higher-pitched sounds. This switch, with its nuanced performance, is ideal for users seeking a balance of sophistication and precision. Both switches have their unique strengths, appealing to gamers and typists alike; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), we observe key similarities and differences that affect their sonic profiles and overall user experience. The Bumblebee Linear features a polyoxymethylene (POM) top housing, known for creating a unique and pleasing sound profile that is characterized as deeper and relatively muted. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing, which is a classic choice in switch construction. This nylon top contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile partly because of its softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively than the harder POM material. Consequently, while both switches promise a rich auditory experience, the Bumblebee Linear will yield a sound that is more restrained compared to the fuller resonance produced by the nylon housing of the Xinhai (Heavy).
Examining the bottom housings, we find that both switches employ nylon as their respective material. This uniformity leads to an identical sonic quality when it comes to the bottom housing, as both switches share the inherent characteristics of nylon: a softer plastic that contributes to a deeper and more rounded sound profile. The impact of this material choice is particularly evident at the bottom-out stage of the key press, where the bottom housing's properties play a significant role in the overall sound and feel. In this regard, users can expect a similar auditory feedback from both switches at this specific point, enhancing the user experience regardless of the differing top housing materials.
Overall, the combination of differing top housings and identical bottom housings presents a nuanced auditory experience with the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and HMX Xinhai (Heavy). While the contrasting materials of the tops lead to variations in upper sound profiles — muted versus fuller — the nylon bottoms ensure a harmonious sensation at the base of the keystroke. This ultimately demonstrates that even with distinct top materials, the shared qualities of the nylon bottoms create a synthesis of characteristics that provide a satisfying typing experience. Users will appreciate the unique sound profiles and tactile feedback offered by each switch, while also recognizing the similarities in quality derived from the common use of nylon in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch with a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams to the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, distinct preferences for typing experience emerge. The Bumblebee Linear, being lighter, is more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch, facilitating longer typing sessions and extended gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its stronger push feel, caters to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, providing a sense of solidity with each keystroke. Thus, the Bumblebee is the lighter switch, ideal for prolonged use, while the Xinhai is the heavier option, appealing to individuals who favor a firmer actuation. Overall, users can expect a more effortless experience with the Bumblebee, while the Xinhai offers a robust tactile feedback suitable for assertive typists.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there's a notable distinction between the two. The Bumblebee Linear features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference may appeal to various preferences in keyboard feel and responsiveness: gamers seeking faster response times might lean towards the Xinhai (Heavy) due to its shorter travel distance, which can enhance rapid key presses. Conversely, those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke experience might gravitate toward the Bumblebee Linear switch, which offers a greater depth. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 characterized by a bright sound profile, which suggests that it produces a somewhat sharper and more pronounced acoustic feedback during typing. This brightness can make key presses feel more engaging and lively. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers a softer acoustics profile thanks to its unique PA12 top housing, resulting in a more muted sound that leans toward precision rather than pronounced impact. The POM stem additionally contributes to a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, which adds a layer of sophistication. Overall, if you value an energetic sound, the Bumblebee may appeal more, while the Xinhai provides a refined acoustic experience.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who favor uninterrupted key travel without any tactile bumps or resistance. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) produces a distinctively crisp feedback that enhances typing precision, although it's unclear how this translates to the overall smoothness compared to the Bumblebee. The combination of the heavier actuation force in the Xinhai switch may lend itself to a more deliberate typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a noticeable feedback mechanism.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches present unique auditory and tactile experiences tailored to different preferences. The Bumblebee offers a bright sound and exceptionally smooth feel, ideal for an engaging typing experience, while the Xinhai (Heavy) combines a softer sound profile with a crisp feedback that emphasizes precision. Ultimately, your choice may hinge upon whether you prioritize an energetic auditory experience or a refined acoustic clarity and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a lighter touch while typing and seek a smooth, responsive experience with an engaging sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is the ideal option for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force allows for rapid key presses and can enhance your typing speed, making it particularly suited for gamers and fast typists. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more resistance and appreciate the refined acoustic qualities of a switch, the Xinhai (Heavy) with its 62.5-gram bottom-out force might be more to your liking. This switch offers a sophisticated blend of softer acoustics and a crisp feel that provides satisfactory feedback for both typing and gaming. Ultimately, consider the type of tasks you frequently engage in and what tactile and auditory sensations you find most pleasurable—this will guide you to the switch that best complements your style.
Mentioned in this article
