Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Ice King Tactile. The Bubblegum, a linear switch, is praised for its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts looking for an innovative and bouncy feel. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile, a tactile switch, is known for its creamy smoothness, pronounced tactile bump, and unique tactile experience that seamlessly combines smoothness and tactility with finesse. While the Bubblegum offers a clacky and bouncy typing experience, the Ice King Tactile provides a silky, frictionless, subdued, stepped, 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
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
68g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Ice King Tactile, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in both switches for the bottom housing ensures that typists will experience a similar typing sound and feel in terms of bottom-out sound and overall typing experience.
However, when it comes to the top housing of the switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum utilizes POM while the Durock Ice King Tactile uses nylon. POM is known for creating a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. On the other hand, nylon used in the Ice King Tactile's top housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Although they have different characteristics, both materials aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play a role in the overall typing experience. While the qualities of the bottom housing impact the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in material between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Ice King Tactile, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches will deliver a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel. Ultimately, whether it is the unique sound created by POM in the Bubblegum or the fuller sound from nylon in the Ice King Tactile, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Overall, the Bubblegum switch is lighter in comparison to the Ice King Tactile switch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Ice King Tactile switch offers a heavier resistance for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be said that they provide a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring a similar feel when pressing down on the keys. This means that users can expect a similar level of tactile feedback and key actuation regardless of which switch they choose. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a moderate distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and keypress comfort.
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 Tactile 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 Tactile 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 crisp and sharp clacky sound when pressed, providing a satisfying auditory experience for users who enjoy a more percussive typing sound. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch produces a more subdued and dampened sound, offering a quieter and more subtle typing experience compared to many other switches on the market. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing users with a spring-like sensation when typing and offering a lively and responsive feel. On the contrary, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a silky and frictionless typing experience, with a smoothness that minimizes resistance and enhances overall comfort. Additionally, the Ice King Tactile switch is noted for its stepped design, providing a more nuanced tactile feedback compared to traditional tactile switches. Overall, both switches offer unique tactile sensations that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Bubblegum switch provides a lively and clacky typing experience, the Ice King Tactile switch offers a smoother and more nuanced tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, as both switches excel in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch or the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preference for typing experience. If you are seeking a light, clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a creamy smoothness, pronounced tactile bump, and a more subdued sound, the Ice King Tactile switch would be the ideal option. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely based on what will bring you the most satisfaction in your typing sessions.
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