Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch are both linear switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Bubblegum switch, known for its striking colorways, delivers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a great choice for enthusiasts looking to explore innovative options in the mechanical keyboard world. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a smooth and substantial feel, with a sharp bottom-out and tactile feedback that appeals to both typists and gamers. While the Bubblegum switch is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Matcha Green Pro switch boasts qualities like 'Resonant', 'Silky', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch.
While the top housing materials of the Bubblegum and the V3 Matcha Green Pro differ in terms of sound profile, the impact of the bottom housing material remains consistent between the two switches. The softer nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a rounder and duller sound, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Additionally, the qualities of the bottom housing have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Bubblegum or the V3 Matcha Green Pro, despite the differences in their top housing materials.
In summary, the top housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro result in distinct sound profiles - with the POM top housing of the Bubblegum producing a deeper sound and the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro offering a crisper sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent and fuller sound profile during typing. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials. Ultimately, users can choose between the two switches based on their preference for sound profile and aesthetic considerations related to RGB lighting.
Weight
In comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Bubblegum has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Bubblegum switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch would be better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a different typing feel due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the individual preferences of users.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it can be seen that the Bubblegum has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Bubblegum offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a longer travel distance, which can give a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness. Each switch offers a unique experience, with the Bubblegum providing a quicker response and the V3 Matcha Green Pro offering a more deliberate feel.
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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
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, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are described as "clacky", producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This results in a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience that many users find satisfying. Additionally, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are noted for being "resonant", providing a higher-pitched sound profile that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience. Overall, whether you choose the Bubblegum or the Matcha Green Pro, you can expect similar results in terms of sound, with slight variations based on other factors like your keyboard and keycap choices.
Moving on to feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is described as "bouncy", offering a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to keystrokes. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches also provide a "bouncy" feel, giving users that same springy responsiveness when typing or gaming. Additionally, the Matcha Green Pro switches are noted for being "creamy", offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. The inclusion of a "polished" and "silky" descriptor further emphasizes the refined and smooth typing experience provided by the Matcha Green Pro switches. Therefore, while the Bubblegum and Matcha Green Pro switches offer slightly different tactile experiences, users can expect a similar bouncy and responsive feel with a touch of smoothness from both options.
In conclusion, when comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, users can expect a satisfyingly clacky sound profile from both options. The Bubblegum switch offers a bouncy typing experience, while the Matcha Green Pro switch combines bounce with a creamy smoothness for added typing comfort. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both, both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the choice between the Bubblegum and Matcha Green Pro switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clacky typing experience with eye-catching colorways, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, substantial feel with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out, the Matcha Green Pro switches from Akko V3 would be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer a unique sound profile, with the Bubblegum being described as clacky and the Matcha Green Pro as both clacky and resonant. In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch provides a bouncy sensation, while the Matcha Green Pro offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.