Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Zuoce Bubblegum both offer unique experiences for users. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its frictionless feel, creating a typing experience akin to gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. With descriptors like 'subdued', 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'silky', and 'polished', this linear switch provides a smooth and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain stands out with its striking colorways and delivers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. Categorized as 'clacky' and 'bouncy', this linear switch appeals to keyboard enthusiasts looking to explore new innovations in their hobby. 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
46g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Yes
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Zuoce Bubblegum differ in their housing materials, with the Aqua King featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing while the Bubblegum incorporates a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate material used in the Aqua King creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the POM material in the Bubblegum produces a deeper, more muted sound, offering a unique typing experience for those who enjoy a softer sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua King is translucent, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Bubblegum does not offer the same level of translucency, but instead focuses on providing a pleasing and unique sound experience with its deeper sound profile. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Bubblegum absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Aqua King.
While the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Zuoce Bubblegum have different housing materials for their top and bottom parts, each contributes distinct qualities to the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, with the nylon material in the Bubblegum offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate in the Aqua King. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate in the Aqua King creating a sharper sound profile while the POM in the Bubblegum produces a more muted sound.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Aqua King requires 62 grams, while the Bubblegum only needs 45 grams, making it lighter as well. This means that the Aqua King provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier push feel, while the Bubblegum offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference based on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Aqua King being on the longer side and the Bubblegum on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the Bubblegum for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others who enjoy a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Aqua King. Overall, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
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
In terms of sound, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a subdued sound when pressed, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch produces a clacky sound, with sharp and snappy characteristics that are crisp, bright, and percussive. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth, effortless, and fluid feel while typing, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. In contrast, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch provides a bouncy typing experience, giving users a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with lively key presses.
Overall, while both the Aqua King (V3) and Zuoce Bubblegum linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they cater to different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) provides a frictionless and buttery typing experience with a subdued sound profile, ideal for those who prioritize smoothness and quietness. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch delivers a clacky and bouncy typing experience, appealing to users who enjoy a more lively and tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each individual desires.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience that feels like gliding on ice, the Aqua King (V3) switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience with a bouncy feedback sensation, the Bubblegum switch is the perfect choice for you. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Whether you choose the Aqua King (V3) or the Bubblegum switch, both options offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences to enhance your overall keyboarding journey.
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