Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch stand out for their unique features. The Bubblegum switch, known for its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, appeals to enthusiasts looking to explore innovative options. On the other hand, the Mini i switch from Gateron offers a gentle tactility with a fairly muted sound profile, making it an ideal choice for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. While the Bubblegum switch is characterized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Mini i switch is labeled as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Snappy', 'Subtle', and 'Stepped'. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Mini i use nylon for their bottom housing material, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic is consistent between the two switches, delivering a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality.
However, the top housing materials of the Bubblegum and Mini i differ, with the Bubblegum using POM and the Mini i using nylon. While POM housings create a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted, the nylon top housing of the Mini i elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This variation in materials will impact the sound produced when pressing down on the switch or letting go of a key. The contrasting top housing materials offer users a choice in the type of sound experience they prefer while typing.
In summary, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Gateron Mini i both excel in providing a pleasing sound profile for typing, with their bottom nylon housings enhancing the depth and fullness of the sound. The difference in their top housing materials, POM for the Bubblegum and nylon for the Mini i, presents users with unique sound experiences to choose from. Whether one prefers the deeper and muted sound of POM or the fuller and rounder sound of nylon, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both fall within the lighter weight category in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Bubblegum has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Mini i's 40 grams, while their bottom out forces are 45 grams and 50 grams respectively. This means that both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer less resistance while typing. Users who enjoy a more delicate keystroke may find the Bubblegum switch to be the lighter option, while the Mini i provides a slightly heavier feel without a significant difference in weight between the two. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of resistance during use.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distance, making them ideal for gamers looking for quick response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a more precise and responsive feel, the Bubblegum switch may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the Mini i switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who appreciate a bit more depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each individual is looking for.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a fairly muted sound profile that offers a gentle tactility in each keystroke, making it suitable for office environments where quiet professionalism is key. While both switches offer different sound profiles, they both provide a satisfying feedback during typing sessions, catering to different preferences based on the environment and user's taste.
When it comes to feel, both the Bubblegum and Mini i switches are described as bouncy. This means that they provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Gateron Mini i switch is also described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Zuoce Bubblegum switch does not have specific descriptors regarding the force required or typing experience, but it can be assumed that as a linear switch, it provides a smooth keystroke with consistent actuation.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer different sound profiles and typing experiences, catering to different preferences and environments. While the Bubblegum provides a clacky sound and potentially a smooth typing experience, the Mini i offers a more muted sound and easy-to-press key presses, ideal for office settings. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a keyboard switch with a unique and vibrant colorway, a clacky typing experience, and a light bottom out force for a lively feel, the Bubblegum switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and office-friendly switch with gentle tactility, a muted sound profile, and easy-to-press keys that are ideal for extended typing sessions, the Mini i switch would be a better fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific usage scenario in which you plan to use the keyboard.
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