Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Gateron CAP Anniversary both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch is renowned for its vibrant colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, perfect for enthusiasts seeking a tactile and bouncy feel. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switch stands out for its smooth keystrokes and innovative aerodynamic design, providing a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. While the Bubblegum switch offers a more tactile and bouncy feel, the CAP Anniversary switch focuses on smoothness and stability. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches both offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials. The Bubblegum utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material in the CAP Anniversary switch produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the Bubblegum's POM top housing offers a more subtle and understated look.
Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is known for its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite having different top housing materials, the Bubblegum and CAP Anniversary switches share this common ground in their bottom housing. This means that the typing experience on both switches will involve this characteristic sound profile created by the nylon bottom housing, contributing to a consistent overall typing feel.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Bubblegum and the CAP Anniversary switches play a crucial role. The bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. The combination of POM and nylon in the Bubblegum switch creates a unique sound profile that is slightly muted and deeper, while the CAP Anniversary switch's polycarbonate top housing produces a crisper and higher-pitched sound. Despite these differences, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the housing materials contributing to the overall sound and feel of each keystroke.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch differ in weight. The Bubblegum has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the CAP Anniversary has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Bubblegum provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended use such as work or gaming sessions, while the CAP Anniversary offers a more substantial feel with a heavier push, suitable for those who prefer a stronger typing experience. Both switches have distinct weights that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Bubblegum will require slightly less distance to press down fully compared to the CAP Anniversary. If you prefer a quicker response time and shorter travel distance, the Bubblegum switch would be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a more deliberate key press with a longer travel distance, then the CAP Anniversary switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This crisp, bright, and percussive sound adds an exciting auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch's sound qualities are unknown, but it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This bouncy feel gives you a lively experience with a nice rebound when pressing the keys. In contrast, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch offers a feel that is a combination of snappy, creamy, and polished. These qualities create a super responsive typing experience that feels alive, smooth, buttery, and refined. The longer or dual-staged springs in these switches contribute to their snappy feedback, while the lubricant and materials used enhance the overall feel, making each keystroke effortless and satisfying.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch that adds a clacky sound and bouncy feel to your typing experience, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch would be a great option. However, if you prefer a switch with a combination of snappy, creamy, and polished qualities that offer a smoother and more refined typing feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would be an excellent choice. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you will enjoy a premium typing experience regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Bubblegum switch if you prioritize a light and bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound, as well as enjoy the eye-catching colorways it offers. On the other hand, opt for the CAP Anniversary switch if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a snappy, creamy, and polished feel, along with exceptionally smooth keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preference for typing feel, sound, and key characteristics to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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