Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Durock Dolphin stand out as popular choices within the enthusiast community. The Bubblegum, a linear switch, is known for its striking colorways and clacky typing experience, appealing to those looking for an innovative and satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, the Dolphin, also a linear switch, boasts silence and a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, making it ideal for office settings or quieter work environments. While the Bubblegum offers a bouncier feel, the Dolphin provides a more polished and muted typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Dolphin, there are some notable differences. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users of these keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Dolphin's top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the Bubblegum and the Dolphin utilize nylon as the material of choice. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two keyboards may result in a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile, despite the differences in their top housings. Users can expect a similar tactile feedback and sound when pressing down on keys, thanks to the absorption properties of nylon in the bottom housing.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the Bubblegum and Dolphin keyboards allows for a unique typing experience for users. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings provide a nuanced sound profile that can vary depending on whether keys are being pressed or released. While the Bubblegum's POM top housing offers a more muted sound and the Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing provides a crisper sound, the nylon bottom housings in both keyboards offer a deep and fuller typing experience. Whether users prefer a softer, duller sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both keyboards offer a range of sound profiles to suit different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Dolphin has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it heavier in comparison. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Bubblegum, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dolphin. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Durock Dolphin linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Bubblegum offers a slightly shallower keypress compared to the Dolphin, making it ideal for those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Dolphin provides a slightly deeper keypress, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the keyboard community for their speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and 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 Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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 Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offers a clacky typing experience, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch produces a more muted and low-pitched sound, ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Depending on personal preference, the Bubblegum switch may be preferred for its crisp and percussive sound, while the Dolphin switch may be favored for its quieter and more subtle tones.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with lively key presses that provide a rebound effect. In contrast, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Bubblegum switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more dynamic and responsive feel, the Dolphin switch may be preferred by those who prioritize a sleek and polished typing experience.
Considering the available information, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky and bouncy typing experience with sharp sounds and lively key presses, the Bubblegum switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a more polished and refined typing experience with muted and low-pitched sounds, the Dolphin switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, you should consider your primary preferences for typing experience. If you value a light bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch is the way to go. It offers a unique and fun typing experience that is sure to stand out. On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force, a muted low-pitched sound profile, and a polished feel, the Dolphin switch is your best bet. It provides a more refined and quiet typing experience that is ideal for office or shared workspaces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences and the environment in which you'll be using them.
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