Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to deciding on a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular choices stand out: the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Cherry MX Red. The Zuoce Bubblegum switch by Gold Grain is a linear switch that offers a unique and eye-catching design with two striking colorways. It provides a clacky typing experience, perfect for enthusiasts looking to explore new innovations in their hobby. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red, a classic switch from Cherry, boasts a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, giving users a more robust typing experience. While the Bubblegum switch is described as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the MX Red is known for being 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. Each switch has its own strengths and 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
N/A
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Cherry MX Red, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to the absorbent nature of nylon. The softer plastic of nylon helps to create a duller and rounder sound, resulting in a more muted typing experience compared to switches made with harder plastics. Overall, users can expect a similar tactile and auditory experience when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, whether they are using the Bubblegum or MX Red.
On the other hand, the top housings of the Bubblegum and MX Red differ, with the Bubblegum featuring a POM top housing while the MX Red opts for a nylon top housing. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Red also produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. When comparing the top housings of these switches, users may notice slight differences in sound and feel when pressing down and releasing keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Cherry MX Red will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, creating a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, the differences in their top housings offer unique sound profiles for users to consider. Whether looking for a deeper, more muted sound with the Bubblegum's POM top housing, or a fuller, rounder sound with the MX Red's nylon top housing, users can find a switch that caters to their individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum is the lighter of the two. The Bubblegum switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the MX Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Bubblegum may be preferred by those who like a lighter touch, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the MX Red may be favored by those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter compared to the Cherry MX Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bubblegum switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers or those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Red switch provides a more substantial keypress feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying for typing tasks that require a bit more depth. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch offers a clacky typing experience with a sharp and snappy sound, described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying tone with a bass-heavy and mellow quality. While both switches offer distinct auditory properties, the ultimate sound produced will also depend on factors like the keyboard build and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that makes the keys feel lively and responsive. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, meaning there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys, which can result in a tactile typing experience preferred by some users. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer contrasting subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Bubblegum switch provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience, while the MX Red switch offers a thocky and textured feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the choice ultimately coming down to individual taste and typing style. Overall, users can expect distinct but equally enjoyable results from these two different linear switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a lighter bottom out force and a clacky typing experience with a unique colorway, the Bubblegum switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel, a deeper sound profile with a thocky and low-pitched sound, and a textured typing experience, then the MX Red switch could be more to your liking. Remember to test both switches if possible to determine which one feels most comfortable and suits your typing needs best. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most enjoyable and efficient for your typing experience.
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