Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Mamba stand out as intriguing options for enthusiasts looking for a unique typing experience. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain offers a captivating blend of eye-catching colorways and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a great choice for those looking to explore the innovative frontier of their hobby. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba, a tribute to Kobe Bryant, provides a smooth and gliding typing sensation along with a rich and creamy auditory experience, perfect for users who prefer a more neutral and polished feel. Each switch offers its own set of characteristics, with the Bubblegum being categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', while the Mamba is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Mamba both use POM housing materials for their top housing, creating a deep and pleasing sound profile. However, the Mamba's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE offers a slightly brighter sound compared to the Bubblegum's more muted tone. In terms of bottom housing, the Bubblegum's nylon material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties, while the Mamba's POM bottom housing again offers a unique and pleasing sound profile that is relatively more muted.
While both switches utilize POM materials for their top housing, the Zuoce Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing contrasts with the Durock Mamba's POM bottom housing. The Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing results in a softer, rounder sound profile due to its sound-absorbing properties, while the Mamba's POM bottom housing contributes to a similarly deep and muted sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience, with the Bubblegum providing a deeper bottom-out sound and the Mamba maintaining a relatively similar sound profile throughout.
Overall, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Mamba may come down to personal preference in sound profile. Both switches offer unique and pleasing tones, with the Bubblegum providing a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Mamba offers a slightly brighter sound with its Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing. Whether you prefer a more muted sound profile or a brighter tone, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience that is sure to satisfy keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum is the lighter option of the two. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Mamba offers a heavier typing feel with a bottom out force of 60 grams, although the actuation force is unknown. Both switches provide a different typing experience, with the Bubblegum being lighter and more suitable for extended typing sessions, while the Mamba offers a more substantial feel for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for typing force and weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that pressing down on either switch will result in a similar tactile experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, users can expect consistent results in terms of travel distance whether they opt for the Bubblegum or the Mamba switch. Overall, both switches offer a standard travel distance, making them suitable choices for those looking for a linear switch with a moderate travel distance.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a neutral sound profile with a hint of thockiness, resulting in a deep and rich auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Bubblegum switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more lively and percussive sound, while the Mamba switch could appeal to individuals looking for a smooth and satisfying typing sound with a bit of depth.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like sensation with lively rebound when pressed. In contrast, the Durock Mamba switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, giving users a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Those who enjoy a more energetic and responsive typing feel may lean towards the Bubblegum switch, while individuals seeking a comfortable and sleek typing experience may find the Mamba switch to be more to their liking.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Durock Mamba linear switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the Bubblegum switch excels in providing a clacky and bouncy typing experience, the Mamba switch stands out for its neutral sound profile and mild, polished feel. Depending on your preferred typing sensation and sound preference, both switches have their unique strengths that cater to different tastes within the mechanical keyboard enthusiast community. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Bubblegum switch if you are looking for a light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. This switch is ideal for keyboard enthusiasts who appreciate a striking aesthetic and a lively feel while typing. On the other hand, opt for the Mamba switch if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing sensation with a neutral sound profile. These switches provide a more gentle typing experience with a polished finish, making them suitable for a wider range of users, whether beginners or advanced. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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