Zuoce Bubblegum vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Zuoce Bubblegum and KTT Glimp are both intriguing options to consider. The Bubblegum switch, a linear switch from Gold Grain, is known for its captivating blend of two eye-catching colorways and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. This makes it a prime choice for enthusiasts looking to delve into the innovative frontier of their hobby. On the other hand, the Glimp switch offers a medium-light feel with tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, providing a balanced typing experience without overwhelming resistance. Although both switches are categorized as 'clacky', the Glimp switch offers additional qualities like being 'creamy', 'mild', and 'neutral'. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Glimp differ in terms of the top housing. The Bubblegum utilizes POM for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material leads to distinct auditory experiences for users of these switches, with the Bubblegum offering a more subdued sound and the Glimp providing a more vibrant and clear sound.
On the other hand, both the Bubblegum and the Glimp feature nylon bottom housings. This material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings for both the Bubblegum and the Glimp will elicit a similar auditory experience, with a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite the differences in their top housings, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing of these switches ensures a consistent sound quality for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches like the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Glimp plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and user experience. While the Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a unique and pleasing sound, the Glimp's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is consistent across the two products. Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of these switches showcase how different materials can influence the sound and feel of typing, while the shared nylon bottom housing highlights the importance of material choice in achieving specific sound profiles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Bubblegum has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Glimp has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The lighter weight of the Bubblegum switch makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, providing a smoother and lighter keystroke experience. In contrast, the Glimp switch offers a slightly heavier push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force for triggering keystrokes, but the Glimp switch requires a bit more force to bottom out compared to the Bubblegum switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Glimp has a longer travel distance compared to the Bubblegum. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth, while a 3.5mm travel distance is slightly shorter, catering to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches provide a tactile feel when pressed, but the slight difference in travel distance may impact the user experience based on individual preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Zuoce Bubblegum or the KTT Glimp linear switch, you can expect a similar typing experience with the slight variation in travel distance.
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 KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and KTT Glimp switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This gives a satisfying auditory feedback during typing sessions for those who enjoy a crisp and bright sound profile. However, the Glimp switch also offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that adds to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Glimp switch offers a creamy typing experience, with a smooth and buttery feel that can be attributed to lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. Additionally, the Glimp switch is considered mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone appealing to many users.
Overall, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and KTT Glimp switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a clacky sound profile and a bouncy typing feel, the Bubblegum switch is a solid choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a switch with a more neutral sound profile and a creamy, mild typing experience, the Glimp switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style, but rest assured that both switches offer a satisfying and responsive typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch or the KTT Glimp linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, then the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, tactile feedback, and a creamy typing experience with a mild feel, then the Glimp switch could be more suited to your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision.
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