Zuoce Bubblegum vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch and the KTT Miaowu switch are both linear switches that offer unique features and benefits to keyboard enthusiasts. The Bubblegum switch, known for its striking colorways and clacky typing experience, is a great choice for those looking to add a touch of innovation to their setup. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch, with its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, is perfect for users seeking a reliable and consistent typing experience. While both switches fall under the categories of 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', each has its own distinct qualities that make them appealing to different preferences. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POK
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Miaowu both showcase different housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, which offers a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the POM housing may not be as visually striking as the clear polycarbonate housing, which is particularly useful for showcasing RGB lighting. However, both top housing materials have their own benefits in creating distinct sound experiences for users.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Bubblegum and the Miaowu utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, despite the difference in top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both keyboards provides a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the combination of different housing materials in a keyboard can create a balanced typing experience that caters to various preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is clear that both switches are on the lighter side. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. The slight difference in force between the two switches may not be noticeable to many users, so in terms of practical use, they may offer similar results. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of travel distance as the switch is pressed from the top to the bottom. Due to their identical travel distances, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience when using either switch. In conclusion, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Miaowu linear switches offer the same travel distance, making them equally suitable choices for those looking for a consistent 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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 KTT Miaowu linear switches are described as producing a clacky sound. This means that both switches will offer a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience to the typist. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, both the Bubblegum and Miaowu switches are characterized as bouncy. This indicates that these switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation when the keys are pressed. Typists can expect a lively feel with these switches, with a rebound effect upon actuation. This can result in a more dynamic typing experience, offering tactile feedback that some users find enjoyable and satisfying.
In conclusion, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and KTT Miaowu linear switches share similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, being described as clacky and bouncy, respectively. This means that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of auditory feedback and tactile sensations when using either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will likely come down to personal preference, design preferences, and any unique features that may set them apart.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you value a striking colorway, clacky typing experience, and a lighter bottom out force, the Bubblegum switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer enhanced stem stability, smoother keystroke action, and a slightly higher bottom out force, the Miaowu switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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