Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves debating between options that offer unique benefits tailored to their typing preferences. The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is beloved for its exceptionally smooth typing experience paired with a bright sound profile that can add a sense of satisfaction during use. This switch excels in delivering a more tactile auditory feedback while maintaining the fluidity inherent in linear switches, making it ideal for those who appreciate both sound and smoothness during their typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stirs the pot with its groundbreaking design aimed at silent operation. Featuring a self-padding design and dual-rail structure, this switch offers unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that effectively muffles sound, catering particularly to users who need to minimize typing noise without sacrificing performance. While both switches provide a linear experience, they cater to different preferences—whether it's the engaging sound of the Bumblebee or the quiet elegance of the Zero Degree. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches showcase distinct housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles and overall aesthetics. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound characteristic compared to the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound, due to its stiffer nature that enhances resonance and clarity. This difference is essential for enthusiasts who may prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback from their typing experience, as the deep tones of the Bumblebee contrast sharply with the crisper sounds of the Zero Degree 0°.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which serves to create a rich depth in sound due to nylon’s softer properties that absorb sound waves effectively. This shared material, in terms of bottom housing, results in a fuller and rounder sound profile for both switches, allowing for a consistent bottom-out feel when typing. Consequently, even with differing top housings, the nylon bottoms ensure that both switches maintain a similar foundational auditory experience. This highlights the importance of the bottom housing in determining the overall sound profile while typing, aligning both switches under the broader category of soft, muted sounds.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, the interplay between the top and bottom housings is crucial in shaping the overall acoustic experience. For users seeking a particular sound signature, the Bumblebee Linear's POM material emphasizes a muted tone upon key release, whereas the Zero Degree 0° offers a brighter, more reactive sound due to its polycarbonate top. Ultimately, while the top housings of these switches diverge in their sound characteristics, the commonality of nylon in the bottom housing fosters a shared auditory depth. This combination allows users to tailor their keyboard experience based on their preferences for sound—be it soft and rounded or sharp and crisp—by switching between these distinct options.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, both feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a similar responsiveness when it comes to triggering keystrokes. This consistency suggests that users seeking a light switch suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming would find similarities in their experience with either switch. However, the Bumblebee Linear has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which means that pressing it all the way down requires a slightly heavier touch compared to the Zero Degree, which lacks a specified bottom out force. Therefore, while both switches maintain a light actuation force, the Bumblebee Linear provides a more defined resistance at the bottom, making it the heavier option overall. Users preferring a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the Bumblebee due to its bottom out resistance, while those who prioritize a lighter switch might still appreciate the Gateron option, though its complete characteristics remain unclear due to the unknown bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both share an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users pressing down on either switch will experience the same amount of key travel from top to bottom. This congruence in travel distance ensures that both switches provide a similar tactile experience, allowing users to expect consistent feedback and performance when typing or gaming. As both switches have the same travel distance, those switching between them can revel in a seamless transition without any notable difference in how far the key needs to be pressed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 provides a bright sound profile, which is likely to resonate more distinctly with each keystroke. This characteristic gives the switch a pronounced auditory presence that many typists find pleasurable, especially in environments where sound can enhance the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch prioritizes quiet typing with its innovative self-padding design that absorbs sound, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive settings. While the Bumblebee's brightness may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback, the Zero Degree's focus on silence offers a drastically different auditory experience, catering to those who prefer a more subdued environment.
When it comes to feel, the Bumblebee Linear switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, providing a fluid keystroke without any tactile interruptions. This smoothness can enhance typing speed and accuracy, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who value effortless actuation. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° presents a soft, elastic feel that combines its dual-rail structure with silent operation, creating a noticeable difference in elasticity and overall tactile feedback. This design promotes a stable feel, which is particularly appealing for users who spend long hours typing and want to minimize finger fatigue while still enjoying a responsive key action.
Overall, both the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches cater to different preferences within the typing experience. The Bumblebee excels in sound and smoothness, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate audible feedback, while the Zero Degree focuses on providing a soft, silent, and stable experience that could be more suitable for quieter environments. Depending on your priorities—whether you enjoy a brighter auditory experience or a more muted and cushioned feel—you will find both switches capable of delivering satisfying results in their respective realms.
Conclusion
To summarize, when choosing between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, your decision will largely depend on your specific needs for typing comfort and sound preferences. If you prefer a light actuation force with a bright sound profile, the Bumblebee Linear is a great fit, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that enhances your productivity. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback as part of their typing experience. On the other hand, if your priority leans towards silent operation without compromising on smoothness, you'll want to opt for the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. Its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure create a soft, elastic feel while minimizing noise, making it perfect for shared or quiet environments where sound is a concern. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the balance between the aural richness of the Bumblebee and the whisper-quiet efficiency of the Zero Degree, ensuring your keyboard feels just right for your typing style and environment.
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