Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Crystal
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Crystal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Outemu Crystal are both linear mechanical keyboard switches with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain is celebrated for its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts looking to delve into the innovative side of the hobby. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal switches offer a more elastic and medium-lightweight feel, providing a unique linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile. While the Bubblegum is known for its bouncy feel and clacky sound, the Crystal stands out with its chirpy and polished attributes. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, giving users options 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Crystal, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles due to their different combinations of materials. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Crystal's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction in sound profile can greatly affect the typing experience, with the Bubblegum offering a more subdued typing experience compared to the Crystal's more lively sound.
Furthermore, the housing materials used in the bottom housing of the switches also play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile. The Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing, being stiffer, creates a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in the bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience, with the Bubblegum offering a more muted and rounded sound compared to the Crystal's clearer and more resonant sound.
In summary, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Crystal showcase how different housing materials can impact the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While the Bubblegum's POM top housing and nylon bottom housing create a deeper and fuller sound, the Crystal's polycarbonate top and bottom housing result in a sharper and crisper sound. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on the desired sound profile and typing experience, with the Bubblegum offering a more subdued feel and the Crystal delivering a more lively and clear sound.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Crystal switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a bit more resistance. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the Bubblegum switch is lighter overall, while the Crystal switch offers a slightly firmer typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bubblegum switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Crystal switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which some may find to offer a more substantial and satisfying keystroke. Both switches fall within the typical range of travel distances for mechanical switches, with the Crystal being on the longer end and the Bubblegum being on the shorter end. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 comparing the sound qualities, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing sharp and snappy sounds that are crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, providing a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart. Depending on personal preference, users may enjoy the lively and striking sound of the Bubblegum or the distinct sound profile of the Crystal switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that provides a lively feel and rebound when keys are pressed. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal switch is known for a polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Users may prefer the bouncy and lively feel of the Bubblegum switch or the polished and smooth typing experience of the Crystal switch based on their personal preferences.
Overall, while the Zuoce Bubblegum and Outemu Crystal linear switches offer different sound and feel qualities, users can expect a unique and innovative typing experience from both options. Whether you prefer the clacky and bouncy nature of the Bubblegum switch or the chirpy and polished feel of the Crystal switch, both switches provide distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, users can get similar levels of satisfaction and enjoyment from either switch based on their individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Bubblegum if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a clacky typing experience with a colorful design. It is a great option for those looking to explore something unique in the world of mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, opt for the Crystal if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and appreciate a chirpy, high-pitched sound profile with a polished and smooth typing feel. The Crystal offers a different tactile experience that some users may find more refined and satisfying. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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