Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Akko Fairy offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch stands out with its clacky and bouncy typing experience, making it a top choice for enthusiasts looking for innovation and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Fairy switch from Akko is known for its polished and muted typing experience, complete with factory-applied lubrication for smoothness and a medium weight that balances resistance and comfort. While the Bubblegum switch is more suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sensation, the Fairy switch is ideal for office settings and extended daily use. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Akko Fairy both utilize nylon housing materials in their switches, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a more muted and rounded sound that is pleasing to the ear. This similarity in material choice enhances the typing experience on both keyboards, providing a satisfying sound feedback that many users appreciate.
While the housing materials for both the Bubblegum and Fairy are similar in being made of nylon, they differ in their top housing materials. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, known for creating a unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. On the other hand, the Fairy utilizes a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound but with a slightly different tonality. These differences in top housing materials can result in varying typing experiences, with each keyboard offering a distinct sound signature that caters to different preferences.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, the nylon bottom housings of both the Bubblegum and Fairy share similar characteristics in creating a deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for better sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. While the impact of the bottom housing material is more prominent during bottom-out sounds and feels, the top housing material influences the sound when keys are released, showcasing the importance of both components in creating a well-rounded keyboard sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Bubblegum linear 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 typing experience for extended periods of time. In contrast, the Fairy linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences, with the Bubblegum being lighter and the Fairy being heavier, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces in a keyboard.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko Fairy linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers looking for quicker response times. The Bubblegum provides a slightly longer key press compared to the Fairy, which may appeal to those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. On the other hand, the Fairy offers a slightly quicker and more abrupt keystroke for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, with only a small difference between them in terms of key press depth.
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 Akko Fairy has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Fairy for $3.10.
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 offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This creates a crisp and percussive auditory feedback that may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced typing sound. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch is described as producing a muted sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it a suitable choice for quiet office environments where a more subtle typing noise is preferred. However, both switches offer a neutral sound profile that can cater to a wide range of users, whether they prefer a louder or quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that gives keys a lively feel with a noticeable rebound when pressed. This can enhance the typing experience for users who enjoy a tactile response. In contrast, the Akko Fairy linear switch is described as offering a polished feel, featuring a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. The factory-applied lubrication on these switches reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel, providing a comfortable and consistent typing feel. Additionally, the Fairy switch offers a mild and subtle typing feel, making it approachable to most users and suitable for shared spaces due to its gentle resistance and quiet sound signature.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bubblegum switch provides a clacky sound and bouncy feel, catering to users who prefer a more tactile and pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Fairy switch offers a muted sound and polished feel, suitable for quieter environments and providing a smooth and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, but users can expect a satisfying and innovative typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum switch may be the way to go. This switch is great for enthusiasts looking for a unique and satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, if you work in an office setting or prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with a moderate bottom out force, the Fairy switch from Akko is a solid choice. Its factory-applied lubrication ensures a comfortable and efficient typing experience, making it suitable for daily professional tasks without causing fatigue. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound, feel, and weight that align best with your personal preferences and needs.
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