Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream

Overview

The Zuoce Bubblegum switch, a linear switch from Gold Grain, is a go-to choice for those seeking a satisfyingly clacky typing experience and a pop of color with its eye-catching design. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch stands out for its buttery and low-pitched feel, offering a deep sound profile that adds a level of texture and resonance to each keystroke. While the Bubblegum switch is bouncy and clacky, the Cream switch provides an invigorating typing experience. 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 Cream Linear

$3.10

$2.30 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream both feature POM top housings, which are known for creating a pleasing and unique sound profile with deeper tones and a relatively muted sound. This means that users can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches when typing. However, the Zuoce Bubblegum stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the NovelKeys Cream's POM bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that adds a different dimension to the typing experience.

While the POM top housings of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offer a similar sound profile, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The Zuoce Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream's POM bottom housing shares the same pleasing and unique sound profile as its top housing, offering consistency in sound quality throughout. These contrasting qualities make each switch stand out in its own way, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.

When considering the impact of housing materials on switch sound and feel, it's essential to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are split between the two components. The bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound when releasing the key. This distinction emphasizes the importance of selecting switches with housing materials that align with personal preferences for sound and typing experience, whether it be the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the more muted sound of POM.

Weight

When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The Bubblegum has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Cream's heavier 55 grams. Additionally, the Bubblegum has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Cream has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Bubblegum switch provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a gentler touch or need to type for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Cream switch offers a more substantial and tactile typing experience, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more pronounced push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the NovelKeys Cream has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bubblegum switch. A 0.5mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable difference in feel and performance. Gamers who prioritize speed and quick response times may lean towards the Bubblegum switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress and deeper typing experience may opt for the NovelKeys Cream switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and how you prioritize travel distance in your typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound profile is crisp, bright, and percussive, making it stand out among other switches. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch provides a deep and low-pitched sound profile with a resonant quality. This switch offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience. Depending on your preference, the Bubblegum switch will give you a vibrant and lively typing sound, while the Cream switch will offer a more immersive and resonant sound.

When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation. This switch showcases a lively feel, giving users a rebound effect when keys are pressed. Conversely, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is known for its buttery feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, it provides a textured sensation that might have noticeable friction when pressed, appealing to users who enjoy a bit of resistance in their typing. The Cream switch is also described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an immersive typing sensation.

In summary, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and bouncy feel, ideal for users seeking a vibrant and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a deep, low-pitched sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, appealing to users looking for a more immersive and tactile typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will get distinct typing experiences depending on their choice.

Conclusion

In summary, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lighter bottom out force and a clacky sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a buttery, textured, and invigorating feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in typing experience. Choose the one that aligns best with your desired typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Zuoce Bubblegum Linear

$3.10

$2.30 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more