Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Keygeek Raw both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Zuoce Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain stands out with its vibrant colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking to add some flair to their setup. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switches boast a unique material blend that creates a creamy yet lightweight feel, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle and textured typing sensation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches differ in composition and effects on sound profiles. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing that creates a unique and pleasing sound with a deeper and more muted profile. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing which offers an exclusive sound experience. While both provide distinct sound profiles, the materials used in the top housing of each switch contribute to a different overall typing experience.
The bottom housings of the Bubblegum and Keygeek Raw switches also showcase differences in material composition. The Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a UMPE & Si blend for its bottom housing, offering an exclusive sound experience that complements the top housing material. These differences in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switches.
Despite their differences, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences. While the Bubblegum utilizes POM and nylon for its top and bottom housings respectively, the Keygeek Raw incorporates a blend of Nylon & UPE for its top housing and UMPE & Si for its bottom housing. These contrasting materials result in distinctive sound profiles and typing experiences, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, both switches deliver high-quality performance and demonstrate the impact that housing materials can have on sound and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is clear that there are notable differences. The Zuoce Bubblegum has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a light and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw has a medium bottom out force of 57.5 grams, although the actuation force is unknown. The Bubblegum offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Keygeek Raw provides a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for either a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of these switches. However, the slight difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance - with the Bubblegum offering a slightly longer press and the Keygeek Raw offering a slightly shorter 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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 is best characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound profile is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a level of satisfaction to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. With a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level, it is suitable for various scenarios and users, whether beginners or advanced enthusiasts. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its bouncy sensation. This type of feedback provides a spring-like or elastic feel when typing, resulting in keys that feel lively and offer a rebound effect. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a textured feel straight out of the box. With noticeable friction when pressed, some users may appreciate this subtle texture while others prefer a smoother typing experience. Additionally, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel.
In conclusion, while the Zuoce Bubblegum and Keygeek Raw linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, there are some similarities to consider. Both switches cater to enthusiasts seeking a different tactile experience, with the Bubblegum switch leaning towards a clacky sound and bouncy feel, while the Keygeek Raw switch provides a neutral sound profile with a textured and mild typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking to achieve in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, consider your preferences. If you enjoy a light bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience with a lively 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 switch with a unique material blend that provides a slightly textured, creamy feel right out of the box, the Keygeek Raw switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound profile, feel, and overall typing experience that aligns best with your personal preferences as a keyboard enthusiast.
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