Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch, a linear switch from Gold Grain, offers a vibrant and visually appealing design with its striking colorways. Known for delivering a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, this switch is perfect for enthusiasts looking to explore the innovative side of mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is smooth, providing a lighter typing feel compared to other switches. It offers a higher-pitched clack, adding a unique touch to the typing experience. While both switches fall under the 'Clacky' category, the Bubblegum switch is also 'Bouncy' while the Ink Box Pink switch is 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished'. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Gateron Ink Box Pink utilize different materials for their top housing - POM for the Bubblegum and a proprietary INK blend for the Ink Box Pink. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. These differences in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users of each switch.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Bubblegum features a nylon bottom housing which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink also utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar high-pitched and clacky sound profile as its top housing. Both switches offer a unique sound experience, with the nylon bottom housing of the Bubblegum focusing on creating a rounder and duller sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend housing of the Ink Box Pink.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of a switch. While the Zuoce Bubblegum and Gateron Ink Box Pink differ in their housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinctive sound profiles. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound of the Bubblegum's nylon housing or the high-pitched and clacky sound of the Ink Box Pink's INK blend housing, users can expect a unique and enjoyable typing experience from either switch.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Bubblegum requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more medium feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the weight preference of the user. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Bubblegum, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ink Box Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Zuoce Bubblegum with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Pink with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches provide a similar experience with minor differences in travel distance that may cater to individual preferences.
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 Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and Gateron Ink Box Pink switches are described as producing a clacky sound when pressed. This sharp and snappy sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding an enjoyable auditory element to typing experience. Additionally, the Ink Box Pink switches are noted for having a higher-pitched sound compared to the Bubblegum switches, which may be a preference for those who enjoy a sharper tone while typing. When considering sound, it's essential to recognize that the overall auditory experience can be influenced by factors such as keyboard build, keycap material, and typing technique.
When it comes to feel, the Bubblegum switches are characterized by a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that gives keys a lively and responsive feel. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switches offer a silky and polished typing experience, featuring exceptionally smooth key travel and minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This smoothness and refined finish enhance the overall typing feel, making each keystroke feel effortless. Whether you prefer a bouncy and lively feedback or a silky and polished typing experience, both switches offer distinct tactile qualities to cater to individual preferences.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel between the Zuoce Bubblegum and Gateron Ink Box Pink switches, it's evident that they provide unique experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. While both switches offer a clacky sound when pressed, the Ink Box Pink switches deliver a higher-pitched tone, catering to those who prefer a sharper sound profile. In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switches offer a bouncy feedback, while the Ink Box Pink switches provide a silky and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing sensation.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a bouncy, clacky typing feel, the Bubblegum switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smoother, silky typing feel with a high-pitched clack, the Ink Box Pink switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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