Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Cherry MX Brown offer distinct typing experiences. The Zuoce Bubblegum is a linear switch that provides a clacky and bouncy feel, perfect for those seeking a unique and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown is a tactile switch known for its subtle tactility and quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more understated typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Cherry MX Brown, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon as a classic switch housing material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. Therefore, both switches are likely to produce a similar duller and rounder sound when typing. However, the Bubblegum's POM top housing is described as creating a unique and pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to the MX Brown's nylon top housing.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Bubblegum and the MX Brown feature nylon as well. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similarly to the top housing material. This means that both switches are likely to have a consistent sound and feel throughout the typing experience, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Overall, the utilization of nylon in both top and bottom housings for the Bubblegum and MX Brown switches ensures a cohesive and high-quality typing experience.
While the Bubblegum and the MX Brown share similarities in their utilization of nylon as a housing material, the Bubblegum stands out with its POM top housing that creates a unique sound profile. This sets it apart from the MX Brown in terms of sound characteristics, offering a potentially different typing experience for users. However, both switches maintain the deep and full sound profile associated with nylon, ensuring a consistent and satisfying typing experience overall. Whether opting for the distinctive sound of the Bubblegum or the classic sound of the MX Brown, users can expect high-quality housing materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch exhibit notable differences. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the MX Brown switch, which requires 45 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Bubblegum switch is also lighter at 45 grams, while the MX Brown switch has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Bubblegum switch offers a lighter and less forceful typing experience overall when compared to the MX Brown switch. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the MX Brown switch due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. However, for those who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Bubblegum switch would be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches cater to varying preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Bubblegum has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the MX Brown's 4 mm. In general, a shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the MX Brown being on the longer side. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in key presses.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch provides a more bassy and low-pitched sound profile during key presses, offering a deeper and richer audio feedback. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your preference for sound, with the Bubblegum giving a more crisp and percussive tone, while the MX Brown delivers a deeper and more mellow sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation. This means that the keys have a lively feel and give you rebound when pressed. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch is known for its textured feel, which refers to noticeable friction when the keys are pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture for added tactility, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience without as much friction.
When considering all available information, it's clear that the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prioritize a clacky sound with a bouncy, lively feel, the Bubblegum switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a bassy sound with a textured feel for added tactility, the Cherry MX Brown switch would be the ideal option. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup, so it's recommended to try out both switches if possible to see which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a light and bouncy typing experience with a sharp and clacky sound, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is the way to go. It is ideal for those who enjoy a more vibrant and engaging typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with subtle tactility and a bassy, low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch would be a better choice. It is perfect for those who appreciate a more subdued and textured typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in sound and feel, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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