Zuoce Bubblegum vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the SP-Star Meteor White both offer unique characteristics worth considering. The Zuoce Bubblegum switch, known for its striking colorways and satisfying clacky typing experience, is a great choice for enthusiasts looking to explore the innovative frontier of mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White switch provides a more subdued experience with its gentle linear feel and soft sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more neutral and polished typing experience. 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
57g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and SP-Star Meteor White both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound. Both materials have their own advantages, with POM providing a unique sound experience and nylon offering a softer, more absorbing sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Bubblegum and Meteor White use nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller sound compared to harder plastics. While both switches utilize nylon in the bottom housing, each switch may still offer a slightly different sound profile due to other factors such as the top housing material or overall design.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Zuoce Bubblegum and SP-Star Meteor White play a significant role in the sound profiles of each switch. While both switches utilize nylon in the bottom housing, the Bubblegum stands out with its POM top housing, offering a unique sound experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White's nylon top housing also contributes to its fuller sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum is the lighter option while the Meteor White is the heavier one. The actuation force of the Bubblegum is 37 grams, which is relatively light, while the Meteor White's actuation force is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare. However, the bottom out force of the Bubblegum is 45 grams, also on the lighter side, whereas the Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods may lean towards the Bubblegum switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Meteor White switch. In both cases, choosing the switch that aligns with individual preferences will result in a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly shorter than the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The Bubblegum switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch provides a deeper keystroke feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for either a faster, more responsive feel or a deeper, more deliberate keystroke. Despite the difference in travel distance, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience.
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 SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 is known for its clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, giving a crisp and bright experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a more subdued and gentle sound, described as pitter-patter and thocky. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so your overall sound experience will be unique to your setup.
Moving on to feel, the Bubblegum switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation with keys that have a lively feel and rebound when pressed. In contrast, the Meteor White switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth and refined key travel. The feel of a switch is crucial as it directly impacts typing comfort and performance, so choosing one that aligns with your preferences is essential.
Considering all the available information, it's clear that the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a more clacky and bouncy typing experience, the Bubblegum switch may be the suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and more polished feel with a subdued sound profile, the Meteor White switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider the key characteristics of each switch. If you are looking for a light switch with a satisfyingly clacky typing experience and a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile and a more polished feel, the Meteor White could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your desired keyboarding experience.
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