Kailh Berry vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry and Zuoce Bubblegum both offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Berry switch is known for its linear design, providing a hefty and springy typing feel with a chalk-like texture. Its sound profile is deep and low-pitched, making it ideal for those who enjoy a textured and bassy typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch, produced by Gold Grain, stands out with its striking colorways and clacky typing feel. The Bubblegum switch offers a bouncy sensation, appealing to keyboard enthusiasts looking to explore innovative options. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches both use different housing materials for their top and bottom components. While the Berry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, the Bubblegum features a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Berry creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting, while the POM top housing of the Bubblegum produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound.
In terms of sound profile, the Berry’s polycarbonate top housing offers a more resonant and clear sound compared to the Bubblegum's POM top housing, which leans towards a deeper and more muted tone. The difference in materials used for the top housing gives each switch a unique audio experience, with the Berry producing a higher-pitched sound and the Bubblegum generating a deeper sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. This common bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience of the Kailh Berry and Zuoce Bubblegum switches is noticeable in both the sound and feel of the switches. The split between the polycarbonate and POM top housings results in differences in the sound when pressing down and letting go of a key, with the Berry offering a sharper sound when releasing a key compared to the Bubblegum's more muted tone. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing is responsible for the overall depth and fullness of the sound when typing on either switch, providing a consistent feel regardless of which top housing material is used. Ultimately, the choice between the Berry and the Bubblegum will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch reveals significant differences between the two. The Kailh Berry linear switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch in terms of resistance. In contrast, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a much lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the Kailh Berry switch is listed as None grams, indicating that it is lower than the 37-gram actuation force of the Zuoce Bubblegum switch. This makes the Zuoce Bubblegum switch a lighter option overall, suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh Berry switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Kailh Berry being the heavier option and the Zuoce Bubblegum being the lighter option for typing and gaming preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable for most users, as they both provide a relatively quick keystroke. However, those who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the Zuoce Bubblegum with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Kailh Berry with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the choice between them coming down to personal preference in keyboard feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, creating a deeper and more mellow typing experience compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch delivers a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy noise that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Depending on personal preference, the Berry may be more suitable for those who enjoy a deep and rich typing sound, while the Bubblegum is ideal for individuals who appreciate a more energetic and lively auditory feedback during typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is noted for its textured typing experience, offering a springy feel with a chalk-like texture that provides a unique sensation when typing. On the contrary, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is described as bouncy, giving users a spring-like and elastic feedback that creates a lively feel and rebound effect when keys are pressed. Individuals who prefer a more tactile and textured typing experience may lean towards the Berry switch, while those seeking a bouncy and lively feel might find the Bubblegum switch more appealing.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Kailh Berry and Zuoce Bubblegum linear switches, it is evident that they each offer distinct sound and feel profiles to cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Berry provides a deep and textured typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Bubblegum offers a clacky and bouncy sensation that adds a lively touch to typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you enjoy deep sounds and textured key presses, the Berry may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more clacky and bouncy typing sensation, the Bubblegum switch would be a fitting choice. Whichever option you choose, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Berry linear switch or the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a springy and textured typing experience with a deep sound profile, then the Kailh Berry switch would be a suitable choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a bouncy feel with a satisfyingly clacky sound profile, and a more colorful and playful design, then the Zuoce Bubblegum switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual preferences in typing feel and sound profile.
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