Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch is a linear switch that offers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a great choice for enthusiasts looking to explore new horizons in their keyboard hobby. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that reinvigorates the category with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with added smoothness. The Bubblegum switch is known for its 'bouncy' feel while the Melodic switch is characterized as 'buttery', 'resonant', 'invigorating', and 'crunchy'. Each switch offers unique features and benefits depending on the user's preference. 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
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Melodic switches both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound, while the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in top housing material results in distinct audio experiences when typing on these switches. Similarly, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound.
While the Bubblegum and Melodic switches share nylon bottom housings, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound output. The translucency of polycarbonate in the Melodic's top housing makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Bubblegum offers a more muted sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing. These differences in housing materials affect the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience, it becomes clear that each component plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile of a switch. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Bubblegum and Melodic switches, both aim to enhance the typing experience by providing unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences and use cases.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Melodic switch. The Bubblegum switch requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a more gentle typing option. In contrast, the Melodic switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. The actuation force of the Melodic switch is not specified, making it difficult to compare directly with the Bubblegum switch in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience. For those who prefer longer typing sessions or gaming, the Bubblegum switch may be the ideal choice due to its lighter force requirements, while the Melodic switch would be suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel while typing.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we can see that the Bubblegum has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Melodic has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch. The difference may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a more responsive key press, the Bubblegum may be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press may find the Melodic switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 offers a clacky experience, giving off a sharp and snappy sound that is often described as crisp and bright. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound profile, with a higher-pitched noise that is clean and sharp, akin to stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Bubblegum having a more traditional clicky sound, while the Melodic introduces a twist with its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems.
When it comes to feel, the Bubblegum switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving users a spring-like feedback and lively feel with each key press. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience along with pronounced feedback and firm actuation force. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the Bubblegum focuses on a lively bounce, while the Melodic emphasizes a seamless and reactive typing sensation.
Overall, choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch will depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky typing experience with a lively bounce, the Bubblegum switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a smooth and fluid keystroke, along with pronounced feedback and firm actuation force, the Gateron Melodic switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that enthusiasts can find the perfect match for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light key press and a clacky sound with a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium key press with a resonant and crunchy sound, along with a buttery or invigorating feel, the Melodic switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and enhances your overall typing enjoyment.
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