Zuoce Bubblegum vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options that stand out are the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Grapefruit, both linear switches. The Zuoce Bubblegum, produced by Gold Grain, boasts a striking design with captivating colorways and offers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it an excellent choice for keyboard enthusiasts looking for innovation in their hobby. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches are known for their unique tarty linear feel and a soft, light touch, accompanied by a distinctive "baritone" sound profile. While the Bubblegum switch is described as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Grapefruit switch is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Grapefruit differ in their housing materials which greatly impact the sound profile of the switches. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing which creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Similarly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material, the differences in the top housing material result in distinct sound profiles for each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Bubblegum and Grapefruit also differ significantly. The Bubblegum's POM top housing provides a unique and pleasing sound that is more muted, while the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing offers a crisper and sharper sound profile. Additionally, the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. This aesthetic feature adds another dimension to the overall design of the switch, making it visually appealing as well as functional.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience is notable in both the Bubblegum and the Grapefruit switches. The qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities allows for a balanced typing experience that is shaped by the unique properties of each housing material. In conclusion, while both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to their nylon bottom housing, their top housing materials create distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Grapefruit has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This makes the Bubblegum switch more preferable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, perfect for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience, providing a more substantial push feel. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose between a lighter or medium-light typing experience based on their individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Bubblegum switch may be preferred by gamers for its shorter travel distance leading to faster response times. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch provides a deeper key press feel due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a quicker response or a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different travel distances, so users can select the one that best suits their typing or gaming style.
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 Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its clacky noise profile, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that suits various environments and preferences. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Bubblegum being more on the sharp side and the Grapefruit leaning towards a deeper and smoother sound.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that gives a lively feel with each key press. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit switch is characterized as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience due to reduced friction and enhanced key travel. While the Bubblegum offers a more lively and bouncy feel, the Grapefruit provides a sleek and polished typing experience for users who prefer a smoother key press.
Overall, if you are deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky and bouncy typing experience, the Bubblegum switch may be more suited for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched and polished typing feel, the Grapefruit switch would be a better choice. Keep in mind that the overall typing experience can also be influenced by factors such as keycaps, keyboard build, and personal typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch or the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light bottom out force of 45 grams and a clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams and a smoother, more polished typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Grapefruit switch from KTT could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities matter most to you when making your decision.
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