Bsun Akashi vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Bsun Akashi and the Zuoce Bubblegum. The Bsun Akashi is a linear switch known for its unique design featuring a UPE stem for smoothness, a POM top, and a nylon bottom housing. This combination creates a distinct sound profile with a bright, crisp bottom-out and deep acoustic richness. The Akashi is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', and 'Easy-to-press'. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum, a linear switch from Gold Grain, stands out with its eye-catching colorways and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. It is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy'. While the Akashi offers a novel and resonant typing experience, the Bubblegum provides a visually appealing and tactile 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
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM+SL
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Zuoce Bubblegum both feature a POM top housing. POM housings in both switches create a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted compared to other materials. This similarity ensures that users can expect a consistent sound experience between the two switches when typing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Akashi and Bubblegum utilize nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This shared characteristic between the two switches means that users can enjoy a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Akashi or the Bubblegum.
However, despite the similarities in housing materials, it's important to note that the qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This distinction ensures that while the housing materials may be the same between the Akashi and Bubblegum, the overall typing experience may still vary slightly based on the distribution of these materials within the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 37 grams. However, the Akashi has a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Bubblegum has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that while the actuation force is the same for both switches, the Bubblegum switch requires a slightly heavier force to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Akashi may be the preferred option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Bubblegum switch due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Bubblegum switch for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Akashi switch with a slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The Zuoce Bubblegum has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bubblegum for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Bsun Akashi and Zuoce Bubblegum switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This crisp, bright, and percussive sound is a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts seeking a satisfying auditory feedback during typing sessions. However, it is important to note that the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akashi switch offers a creamy and frictionless typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation that enhances the overall typing feel. This polished switch ensures minimal resistance and effortless key travel, resulting in a silky and snappy response to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback that adds a lively feel to typing sessions. This rebound effect can lead to a more dynamic and responsive typing experience for users looking for a switch with a unique tactile sensation.
Overall, both the Bsun Akashi and Zuoce Bubblegum linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Akashi switch leans towards a creamy and polished typing experience with a snappy response, the Bubblegum switch offers a bouncy and dynamic feel that adds an extra layer of excitement to typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options providing a satisfying and innovative choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Akashi linear switch or the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for tactile feedback and typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a unique sound profile that offers a bright and resonant bottom-out feel, the Akashi might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a switch that provides a satisfyingly clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preference in terms of sound and feel when selecting between these two linear switches.
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