TTC Brother vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch stand out as unique options for different preferences. The TTC Brother is adored for its lightweight actuation of 37g, providing a tactile and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that clicky switch enthusiasts will appreciate. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch by Gold Grain boasts a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, ideal for those looking to explore innovative keyboard options. While the Brother offers a crunchy, easy-to-press keystroke with a stepped tactile bump, the Bubblegum provides a unique clacky sound and 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
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Brother's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Bubblegum's POM top housing produces a deeper, more muted sound, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Brother. While both switches may have different top housings, they both offer a pleasant typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the TTC Brother and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches utilize nylon for its classic properties that enhance the sound profile. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound than harder plastics to produce a rounder sound. Therefore, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality due to their shared bottom housing material. This consistency in material choice ensures that users can enjoy a familiar typing experience whether they opt for the Brother or the Bubblegum switches.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Brother and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches may come down to personal preferences in sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Brother offers a sharper, crisper sound ideal for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Bubblegum provides a deeper, more muted sound that may appeal to users looking for a different auditory experience. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of the full and deep sound profile nylon brings to the table. Ultimately, users can choose the switch that best suits their sound preferences and typing style.
Weight
The actuation force of both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is 37 grams, making them equal in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bubblegum switch requires 45 grams, while the Brother's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Bubblegum switch is lighter due to its lower bottom out force, which may appeal to users who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Brother switch's heavier force (actual value unknown) may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch have identical travel distances of 3.5 mm each. This means that both switches provide the same amount of travel distance when pressed down on a key. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and typing experience offered by both switches. It is worth noting that the travel distance of these switches is relatively short compared to other types of switches on the market, making them suitable for fast typists and gamers who prefer quick key presses. Overall, whether you choose the Brother clicky switch or the Bubblegum linear switch, you can expect to have a smooth and responsive typing experience with minimal travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a crunchy and satisfyingly crisp auditory experience that is synonymous with traditional clicky switches. Each keystroke provides a distinct and clear click that is sure to please enthusiasts of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch produces a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive in nature. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Brother leans towards the classic clicky switch sound, while the Bubblegum provides a more modern and vibrant auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Brother switch is characterized by an easy-to-press nature with a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and comfortable. The tactile bump of the Brother switch is articulated and provides just the right amount of feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving keys a spring-like feel with lively rebound upon pressing. The tactile experience of the Brother switch is more traditional and subdued compared to the playful bounce of the Bubblegum switch.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offer contrasting yet equally intriguing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother excels in providing a classic clicky switch experience with a crunchy sound and easy-to-press nature, the Bubblegum stands out with its clacky sound and bouncy feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, both switches offer unique typing experiences that are sure to enhance any keyboard enthusiast's journey into the world of mechanical switches. Ultimately, whether you choose the Brother or the Bubblegum switch, you can expect a satisfying and engaging typing experience with each keystroke.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a light actuation force and a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the Brother clicky switch is an excellent choice for you. Its tactile bump and easy actuation make typing a breeze, perfect for those who prefer a softer touch. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a bouncy, spring-like feedback sensation, the Bubblegum linear switch may be more to your liking. Its clacky sound and lively feel provide a unique typing experience that may appeal to those looking for something different. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that best suits your preferences and typing needs.
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