Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 are both linear switches that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Bubblegum switch, known for its striking colorways and clacky typing experience, is ideal for enthusiasts looking for a blend of novelty and satisfying feedback. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 offers a classic linear switch experience with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a popular choice among keyboard users craving a polished and mild typing experience. While both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them appealing, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and usage. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Ink Black V2 both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, which creates a deep and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both housing materials offer distinct sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound profile.
The housing materials of the Bubblegum and the Ink Black V2 also differ in their bottom housings. The Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer material that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to a high-pitched and clacky sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, offering users a choice between a duller, rounder sound or a more sharp and clacky sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the Bubblegum and the Ink Black V2 may have different materials, they collectively influence the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique and satisfying typing experiences for users seeking various sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it is clear that the Bubblegum is the lighter option while the Ink Black V2 is the heavier choice. The Bubblegum linear switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a light option suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch boasts an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience for users who enjoy a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the weight of a switch is a personal preference, with lighter switches being ideal for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more robust typing experience. Whether one prefers a light or heavy actuation force, both the Bubblegum and Ink Black V2 switches offer reliable performance in their respective weight categories.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bubblegum offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for speed and precision. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 provides a deeper and more deliberate keystroke with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer different typing sensations based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences for either a faster or more deliberate key press.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and percussive tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched, bassy sound with a unique chirpy element to its acoustics. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences in sound. When it comes to feel, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback that adds a lively sensation to typing. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 switch provides a mild and polished feel, creating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and comfortable key travel. Overall, while the Bubblegum switch excels in delivering a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch offers a rich, bassy sound and polished, mild feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, ensuring satisfying results with either choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, you should consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smoother, more polished typing feel, the Ink Black V2 switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Additionally, if you enjoy a bouncy feel and a sharp, snappy sound, the Bubblegum switch would be right up your alley. Conversely, if you prefer a milder typing experience with a bassy, low-pitched sound profile, the Ink Black V2 switch would be a better match for you. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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