Kailh Box Jade vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Jade and the Zuoce Bubblegum mechanical keyboard switches, you are met with two unique options catered to different preferences. The Box Jade switch is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. In contrast, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain offers a striking visual appeal with its colorful design and delivers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and advantages depending on your personal 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
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and Zuoce Bubblegum switches are quite different. The Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it useful for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switch has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different materials can affect the overall typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box Jade and Bubblegum switches use nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to stiffer plastics. Despite having different top housings, the similar use of nylon for the bottom housing means that both switches will likely produce a similar typing sound when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. The impact of the housing material on the typing experience is evident in how the sound and feel of a switch can vary depending on the materials used.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for mechanical keyboard switches plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and feel of typing. The differences between polycarbonate and POM in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing of the Box Jade and Bubblegum switches demonstrate how material selection can lead to distinct typing experiences. Whether it's a crisper and higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate in the Box Jade or the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Bubblegum, each housing material brings its own unique characteristics to the table, ultimately influencing how users interact with their keyboards.
Weight
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch. The Box Jade requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, providing a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switch only needs 37 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. The Box Jade would be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, while the Bubblegum switch would be ideal for those who prefer a lighter key press. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular for improved responsiveness, especially among gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to everyone, but for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes, the Box Jade switch might be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly quicker response time, the Bubblegum switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Box Jade comes in at $5.50 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 Box Jade switch offers a high-pitched and crunchy typing experience, providing sharp and crisp clicks reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Box Jade leaning towards a higher pitch and crunchiness, while the Bubblegum delivers a more defined and percussive clack.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is described as having an accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still present. This switch provides a snappy and reactive typing sensation that is immersive and satisfying. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively and rebounding feel when pressed. While the Box Jade offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Bubblegum switch focuses on a bouncier and elastic typing experience.
When considering all the available information, it is clear that the Kailh Box Jade and Zuoce Bubblegum switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, alongside an accented and invigorating tactile feel. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switch delivers a clacky sound with a bouncy feel, offering a different, but equally satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharp clicks and crunchy feedback of the Box Jade or the snappy clacks and bouncy feel of the Bubblegum, both switches are sure to provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. Choose the Box Jades if you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with crisp clicks and tactile bumps. On the other hand, opt for the Bubblegum switches if you prefer a lighter touch with a satisfyingly clacky sound. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value the medium tactile feel and high-pitched sound of the Box Jades or the bouncy sensation and clacky sound of the Bubblegum switches. Make your decision based on what best suits your typing style and preferences.
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