Zuoce Bubblegum vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Gold Red Pro are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Bubblegum switch stands out with its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky feel, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts looking to explore new innovations in the hobby. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro switch from TTC boasts versatility in its ease of press and neutral sound signature, making it a seamless option for users with various preferences and settings. While both switches have their own strengths and appeal, it's important to delve deeper into their specific features to determine the best fit for your 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Gold Red Pro both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Gold Red Pro allows for a more resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile compared to the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing.
While both the Bubblegum and Gold Red Pro feature nylon bottom housings that create a deeper and fuller sound, their respective top housings offer distinct sound profiles. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a more muted sound, while the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The use of different materials in the top housing of each switch allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Gold Red Pro, it is evident that the choice of material significantly impacts the sound profile of each switch. The softer nylon material used in both switches' bottom housings contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the differences in the top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a more muted sound, while the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch provides a unique typing experience for users seeking different sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, the Bubblegum switch is lighter in both aspects with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro switch is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 43 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Bubblegum switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel might opt for the Gold Red Pro switch, with its slightly higher actuation force. Both switches offer different levels of typing resistance, appealing to a variety of preferences among keyboard users.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. However, the Gold Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more satisfying depth to the keystrokes compared to the Bubblegum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches 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 Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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, giving off a crisp, bright, and percussive noise. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a thocky sound that is deep and rich, along with a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow. The Gold Red Pro also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Bubblegum being more high-pitched and energetic, while the Gold Red Pro is more subdued and versatile.
When it comes to feel, the Bubblegum linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with keys that have a lively feel and rebound when pressed. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a polished and silky typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Gold Red Pro switch also offers a mild and subtle typing feel that is gentle yet approachable to most users. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Bubblegum being more energetic and bouncy, while the Gold Red Pro is more refined and smooth.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch stands out with its clacky sound and bouncy feel, making it a vibrant choice for users looking for an energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a versatile and neutral sound profile along with a polished and silky typing feel, catering to users with varying preferences. Depending on whether you prefer a more lively and clacky typing experience or a smooth and refined one, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, while the sound and feel of these switches may be different, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either choice.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider your typing preferences and work environment. If you are seeking a clacky typing experience with a light bottom out force and a visually appealing design, the Bubblegum switch may be the ideal choice for you. This switch is great for enthusiasts looking to explore new and innovative options. On the other hand, if you prioritize versatility, ease of press, and a neutral sound profile suitable for various settings, the Gold Red Pro switch is a solid option. Its adaptability makes it a suitable choice for gaming, office work, or casual typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you value most.
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