Gateron Aliaz vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the Zuoce Bubblegum offer distinct qualities to consider. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments such as offices, with its silent design and medium-heavy weight providing a satisfyingly substantial feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switch by Gold Grain stands out with its striking colorways and delivers a clacky typing experience that is sure to excite keyboard enthusiasts. While the Aliaz switch offers a more muted and polished typing experience, the Bubblegum switch provides a bouncy and clacky feel. 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
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM+SL
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes it perfect for users who prefer a clear and resonant typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switch comes with a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, ideal for those looking for a softer typing feel.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Aliaz uses polycarbonate which contributes to a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound. This material's stiffness allows for a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Bubblegum switch employs a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing feel. These differences highlight the impact that bottom housing materials can have on the overall typing experience of a switch.
Although the housing materials for the top and bottom differ between the Aliaz and Bubblegum switches, they each offer distinct advantages based on user preferences. While the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when typing, the bottom housing is more influential on the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisp sound of polycarbonate in the Aliaz or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon in the Bubblegum, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will depend on the individual's desired sound and feel while typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is heavier while the Bubblegum is lighter. The Aliaz requires 60 grams of actuation force and 75 grams of bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Bubblegum only needs 37 grams of actuation force and 45 grams of bottom out force, making it a lighter option that allows for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Bubblegum, while those who enjoy a firmer push may favor the Aliaz. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Bubblegum's 3.5 mm. This means that the Aliaz provides a slightly deeper key press experience than the Bubblegum. The Aliaz's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a satisfying depth to the keystroke, while the Bubblegum's 3.5mm travel distance is shallower and may be preferred by those seeking a quicker response time. Both switches provide a different tactile experience, with the Aliaz offering a bit more resistance and depth, while the Bubblegum delivers a smoother and slightly faster keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is praised for its quiet operation, making it ideal for office settings or shared spaces where noise could be a concern. It offers a medium-heavy weight that gives a satisfyingly substantial feel to each keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced typing feedback without the accompanying clicky sound. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch stands out with its vibrant color options and delivers a distinctly clacky typing experience, attracting keyboard enthusiasts looking to explore innovative options in their hobby.
When it comes to sound, the Aliaz switch is known for producing a muted noise, providing a softer and quieter sound compared to standard mechanical switches. In contrast, the Bubblegum switch offers a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. The sound profile of each switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so keep that in mind when selecting your preferred switch based on sound preferences.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined typing feel. In comparison, the Bubblegum switch provides a bouncy sensation, giving keys a spring-like feedback that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences among users, with the Aliaz focusing on smoothness and refined key travel while the Bubblegum emphasizes a bouncy and energetic typing sensation.
Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a quiet and substantial typing experience with a muted sound, the Aliaz switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and vibrant typing experience with a bouncy feedback sensation, the Bubblegum switch may be more appealing to you. Remember to consider how these switches interact with your keyboard setup as a whole to optimize your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard and your preferred typing experience. If you prioritize a quiet workspace and enjoy a medium-heavy keystroke with a muted sound, the Aliaz switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you're looking for a visually appealing switch with a clacky typing experience and a lighter touch, the Bubblegum switch is the better option. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing feedback.
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