Zuoce Bubblegum vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Honey offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain stands out for its striking colorways and clacky typing experience, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking to add an innovative touch to their setups. In contrast, the TTC Honey provides a smooth and creamy typing feel with a deep and pleasant sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued and buttery typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that make them desirable choices for different users. 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
42g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Honey both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, creating distinct sounds and feels for the switches. The Bubblegum's POM top housing produces a unique deep and muted sound, while the Honey's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound with transparency for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound, while the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a crisper and resonant sound profile.
While the Bubblegum and Honey switches both feature unique housing materials, they also share similarities in terms of the qualities they bring to the overall switch experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Honey switch creates a sharper sound profile, similar to the sound produced by the Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing. Both switches offer a clear and resonant sound profile, albeit with different characteristics in terms of pitch and depth. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches allows for enhanced aesthetics when paired with RGB lighting.
Ultimately, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Honey switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. The Bubblegum switch offers a deeper and fuller sound with its POM top and nylon bottom housing combination, while the Honey switch provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience, highlighting the importance of considering these factors when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, the Bubblegum switch is lighter as it has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Honey switch is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter touch when typing. The actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force needed to press the key all the way down. For those who enjoy typing for long periods, the lighter actuation force of the Bubblegum switch may be more appealing, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the Honey switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the TTC Honey linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Bubblegum switch may feel more responsive due to its shorter travel distance, while the Honey switch offers a slightly deeper feel with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of responsiveness and key 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 Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 provides a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a more subdued sound profile, producing a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. Depending on your preference for a louder or quieter typing experience, you can choose between the vibrant clackiness of the Bubblegum or the smoother sound of the Honey.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bubblegum linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively feedback sensation. In contrast, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a creamy typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation when pressing the keys. Additionally, the Honey switch is noted for being frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished, ensuring a fluid and refined typing experience. Whether you prefer a bouncy and lively feel or a smooth and buttery sensation, both switches offer unique tactile experiences for keyboard enthusiasts to enjoy.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch each bring their own distinct qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Bubblegum provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience, the Honey offers a subdued and creamy feel, catering to different preferences for sound and tactile feedback. Depending on your personal preference for sound and typing sensation, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch, ensuring a unique and enjoyable typing experience for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch or the TTC Honey linear switch, think about your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a snappy and clacky typing experience with a light bottom out force, the Bubblegum switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing feel with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Honey switch might be more suited to your taste. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and distinct tactile sensations, so ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are seeking. Consider trying out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your needs and preferences in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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