Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Zuoce Bubblegum, a linear switch, and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain offers a unique and captivating blend of two eye-catching colorways, providing a satisfyingly clacky typing experience that appeals to keyboard enthusiasts looking to push the boundaries of their hobby. On the other hand, the Blueberry switches are known for their sharp tactile bump, making them ideal for those who seek a distinct typing feel. While the Bubblegum is described as 'clacky' and 'bouncy', the Blueberry offers a 'snappy', 'buttery', 'low-pitched', 'textured', 'resonant', 'invigorating', and 'stiff' typing experience. Each switch has its own appeal and advantages. 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

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$3.10

$2.30 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Zuoce Bubblegum and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches both utilize POM top housings, which results in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. This makes them both great options for those looking for a softer and rounder sound when typing. However, the Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing brings a different element to the table, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Blueberry's POM bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material can lead to a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches.

While both switches offer a similar sound profile with their POM top housings, the Zuoce Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry's POM bottom housing. This difference in material composition can influence the overall typing experience, with the Bubblegum offering a potentially deeper and fuller sound when typing. Additionally, the bottom housing material can have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, further differentiating the two switches in terms of typing feedback.

Overall, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches may come down to individual preference in sound and feel. While both switches offer a unique sound profile with their POM top housings, the Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience compared to the Blueberry's POM bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material can lead to a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the Bubblegum potentially offering a more rounded and muted sound profile overall. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch is the better fit for each individual user.

Weight

When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is clear that there is a significant difference in weight. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Blueberry switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more robust and substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. The actuation force of the Bubblegum switch is lighter compared to the Blueberry switch, while the bottom out force of the Blueberry switch is heavier. This difference in weight caters to different preferences, with lighter switches being favored for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the travel distance of 4 mm for the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch. The Bubblegum offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who seek faster input. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch provides a deeper, more substantial keystroke experience with its longer travel distance. Both switches have their own advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Bubblegum offering speed and the Blueberry offering depth in keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch provides a lower-pitched and resonant sound profile, with a deeper tone that is clean and sharp. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Bubblegum switch leans towards a sharper sound, whereas the Blueberry switch offers a deeper and more immersive sound profile.

In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like sensation with a lively feel and good rebound. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is described as snappy and buttery, offering super responsive feedback with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Blueberry switch is noted for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed, making it a unique tactile typing experience compared to the more bouncy feel of the Bubblegum switch. Both switches offer an invigorating typing sensation, but with different qualities that cater to varied preferences in tactile feedback.

Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Bubblegum switch provides a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, while the Blueberry switch offers a lower-pitched and resonant sound with a snappy and buttery tactile feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different qualities. If you enjoy a sharp and snappy typing experience, the Bubblegum switch may be more to your liking, while those who prefer a deeper and more textured feedback may lean towards the Blueberry switch. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person is the best way to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences the most.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it's important to consider your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier bottom out force and a sharp tactile bump with a lower-pitched, resonant sound profile, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch might be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.

Mentioned in this article

Zuoce Bubblegum Linear

$3.10

$2.30 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more