Zuoce Bubblegum vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Bubblegum switch stands out with its clacky and bouncy feel, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch is praised for its balanced nature, offering a slight bump and moderate weightiness that provides a satisfying typing experience without being too overwhelming. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Gold Brown switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. While the top housing materials differ between the two switches, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
The aesthetic appeal of the switches is also influenced by their housing materials. The Bubblegum's POM top housing offers a unique sound profile and a distinct appearance, while the Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing is more likely to be used in switches with RGB lighting for its translucency. Both switches offer a different visual and auditory experience based on their housing materials. However, the nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent feel and sound profile when typing, as nylon's ability to absorb sound creates a duller and rounder typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Gold Brown switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics. The differences in their top housing materials result in contrasting sound profiles, with POM offering a deeper sound and polycarbonate providing a sharper tone. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer the unique sound of POM or the sharpness of polycarbonate, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their combination of housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Bubblegum is lighter in both aspects. The Bubblegum requires an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Gold Brown is heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Gold Brown provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel compared to the Bubblegum. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Bubblegum more suitable for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may lean towards the Gold Brown for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Brown being on the longer side. Gamers may prefer the Bubblegum switch for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Gold Brown switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and keypress 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 TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 sharp and snappy experience, producing a crisp and bright sound that percussion enthusiasts would appreciate. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and preferences. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, with the Bubblegum being more on the clacky side and the Gold Brown offering a softer noise level.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch delivers a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like feedback that adds an element of liveliness to your typing experience. In contrast, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience, with elements of being buttery, accented, and polished. This means that the Gold Brown switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a moderate amount of tactility, ensuring a comfortable typing session for users seeking a more gentle tactile feedback.
Overall, while the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you enjoy a sharp and clacky typing experience with the Bubblegum or prefer a balanced and gentle tactile feedback with the Gold Brown, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch or the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and bouncy typing experience with a sharp, clacky sound, the Bubblegum switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced and moderate typing feel with a soft, neutral sound profile, the Gold Brown switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what you value most in a keyboard switch when making your decision.
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