Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch to the Durock Ice King Linear switch, it becomes apparent that both offer unique features and experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain is known for its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a great choice for those looking to add a touch of innovation to their setup. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switch boasts a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, providing a more subdued and creamy feel. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different preferences, whether you prefer a bouncy and clacky typing experience or a frictionless and polished feel. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Durock Ice King Linear both feature nylon as a switch housing material, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other materials. However, the Bubblegum utilizes POM for the top housing, which creates a more muted sound profile with a deeper tone. In contrast, the Ice King Linear also uses nylon for the top housing, offering a similar deep and full sound but with a softer and rounder quality due to the nature of nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Overall, both switches provide a pleasing sound experience, but the Bubblegum's POM top housing may offer a slightly different sound profile compared to the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, resulting in a consistent deep and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of this material. The nylon bottom housing of the Bubblegum and Ice King Linear contributes to a duller and rounder sound, creating a tactile typing experience with a satisfying sound when keys are pressed. While the top housing may have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall sound profile and feel of the switch when typing.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Durock Ice King Linear showcase the benefits of using nylon as a switch housing material, providing a deep and full sound profile with a tactile typing experience. While the Bubblegum's POM top housing may offer a slightly different sound compared to the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with a unique sound signature. Whether it be the bottom or top housing material, each contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a tactile and pleasing typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum switch is lighter in both aspects. The Bubblegum switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the Ice King Linear switch. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly heavier in comparison. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer use, the Bubblegum switch would be the ideal choice. However, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Ice King Linear switch with its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both switches offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces to cater to various typing needs.
Travel distance
Both the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch have a travel distance of 3.5mm, meaning that they both offer the same tactile feedback when pressed. The travel distance of 3.5mm allows for a comfortable typing experience while still providing a satisfying keystroke. As a result, users can expect similar results when using either switch in terms of keypress feel and travel distance. Ultimately, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Durock Ice King Linear switches offer a consistent typing experience with their identical travel distances.
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 Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 typing experience, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch provides a more subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature. Both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, but the Bubblegum switch may appeal more to those who prefer a louder and more distinctive typing sound, while the Ice King Linear switch may be preferred by those who value a quieter and more subtle typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives a lively feel with rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, offering frictionless, creamy, and polished qualities that enhance overall smoothness and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Bubblegum switch catering to those who enjoy a more tactile and bouncy feel, while the Ice King Linear switch appeals to enthusiasts seeking a buttery smooth and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch each offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bubblegum switch stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, while the Ice King Linear switch excels in providing a subdued sound and a silky smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the more pronounced and lively typing experience of the Bubblegum switch or the refined and frictionless typing experience of the Ice King Linear switch. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light bottom out force and a clacky sound with a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a subdued sound with a silky, frictionless, creamy, or polished feel, the Ice King Linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force to enhance your overall typing experience.
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