Zuoce Bubblegum vs. PH Studio Milk Tea

Overview

The Zuoce Bubblegum switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea switch are two unique mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Bubblegum switch, produced by Gold Grain, offers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience that is perfect for enthusiasts looking to explore new innovations in the hobby. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch, manufactured by BSUN, provides a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched yet muted sound, ideal for prolonged typing sessions. While the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy feel, the Milk Tea switch stands out with its polished and silky keystrokes. Both switches have their own set of characteristics that make them appealing to different users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Zuoce Bubblegum Linear

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$3.10

$2.30 per 10

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Zuoce Bubblegum and the PH Studio Milk Tea both utilize POM as the material for their top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile that is deep and relatively more muted. This means that when typing on either of these keyboards, users can expect a pleasing and unique sound experience that is consistent between the two options. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Bubblegum uses nylon while the Milk Tea sticks to POM. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, POM maintains the pleasing sound characteristics but may not offer the same depth and richness as nylon.

While both keyboards offer a similar top housing material in POM that creates a pleasant sound profile, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound experience when typing, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Milk Tea sticks to POM for its bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sound profile with the top housing but potentially lacking the depth and richness that nylon can provide. This difference in bottom housing material can result in a noticeable variation in sound and typing experience between the two keyboards.

In terms of design and functionality, the split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Bubblegum and Milk Tea keyboards plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile and typing experience. While the top housing material primarily impacts the sound when keys are released, the bottom housing material is more influential in the sound and feel when keys are pressed down. The use of nylon in the Bubblegum's bottom housing enhances the impact of bottom-out sound and feel, while the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea maintains a consistent sound profile throughout typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two keyboards may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, both switches have a relatively light actuation force. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Milk Tea has a slightly higher actuation force of 37.5 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Bubblegum requires 45 grams to bottom out, whereas the Milk Tea only needs 43.5 grams. This makes the Milk Tea slightly lighter overall compared to the Bubblegum. Both switches provide a light and smooth typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch and may be ideal for extended typing sessions. However, the slight difference in bottom out force may be noticeable to users who prefer a slightly heavier feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, especially favored by gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be very noticeable to the average user, as they both offer a relatively quick key press. However, for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Milk Tea switch may provide a more satisfying feel due to its marginally longer travel distance. Overall, while the Bubblegum switch may offer a slightly quicker key press, the Milk Tea switch offers a bit more depth for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and PH Studio Milk Tea switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. However, the Milk Tea switch also has a high-pitched and resonant quality, creating a unique auditory experience that leans towards a more subtle and gentle sound profile. The Bubblegum switch, on the other hand, offers a more straightforward clacky sound. Keep in mind that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by your choice of keyboard, keycaps, and other factors.

Moving on to feel, the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that gives keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. In comparison, the Milk Tea switch offers a polished and silky typing experience, thanks to the smooth and refined finish of the switch material or factory lubing. This results in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in typing feedback.

Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Zuoce Bubblegum and PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches each have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel. While the Bubblegum switch focuses on a more clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Milk Tea switch introduces high-pitched and resonant elements along with a polished and silky typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between these switches to enhance your typing experience. Keep in mind that the overall performance of these switches can also be impacted by factors like keycaps, board types, and additional modifications. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a unique and tailored typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a captivating blend of colors and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique auditory blend, high-pitched sound profile, and a smooth typing experience designed for prolonged use, the Milk Tea switch from BSUN could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing needs. Both switches offer their own distinct characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and usage requirements.

Mentioned in this article

Zuoce Bubblegum Linear

$3.10

$2.30 per 10

Learn more

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn more