Zuoce Bubblegum vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Gold Red are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Bubblegum switch, known for its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky feel, is a great choice for enthusiasts looking to explore new horizons in their keyboard hobby. On the other hand, the Gold Red linear switches provide a buttery smooth typing experience with a touch of personality, thanks to their snappy sound profile. While the Bubblegum switch is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Gold Red switch is described as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Silky', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
50g
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 housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Gold Red switches offer distinct sound profiles and characteristics. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the Gold Red. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a soft plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for both switches.
Despite differences in their top housing materials, the Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Gold Red switches share similarities in their nylon bottom housings. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound for both switches, showcasing the classic switch housing material's influence on the overall sound output. While the top housing materials may vary between the two switches, the bottom housings play a significant role in shaping the sound experience for users, emphasizing the importance of the material used in construction.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Gold Red switches impact the sound profiles and overall typing experience in different ways. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a unique and pleasing sound that is relatively more muted, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite these differences, the qualities of the housing materials greatly influence the typing experience and sound output of each switch, showcasing the importance of material selection in switch design.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Bubblegum switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Gold Red switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions. However, the Gold Red switch requires slightly more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Bubblegum switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Bubblegum switch may be the better option, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the Gold Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Zuoce Bubblegum offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Red, making it more suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Gold Red linear switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which can give a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market today, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Red 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 Red 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 clacky experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a thocky, low-pitched sound profile that is deep and satisfying, with a touch of neutrality. Depending on the user's preference for sound, the Bubblegum switch may appeal to those who enjoy a crisper and brighter tone, while the Gold Red switch may be preferred by individuals seeking a more bass-heavy and mellow sound.
Moving on to feel, the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy feedback, providing a lively and spring-like sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch offers a mild and silky typing experience, with qualities that fall into a safe and approachable middle-ground zone. Additionally, the subtle resistance and polished finish of the Gold Red switch contribute to a smooth and refined typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Overall, individuals looking for a more energetic and bouncy feel may appreciate the Bubblegum switch, while those seeking a gentle and polished typing experience may favor the Gold Red switch.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Bubblegum switch emphasizes a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Gold Red switch prioritizes a thocky sound and silky, polished feel. However, both switches provide unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience, making them suitable choices for enthusiasts seeking diverse options in their mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a clacky sound profile, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a smooth, thocky sound profile with a touch of personality, the Gold Red switch from TTC is worth considering. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing experience, sound, and feel. Choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall keyboarding experience.
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