Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Bubblegum switch, with its clacky and bouncy typing experience, provides a satisfying feedback that is sure to please those who enjoy a more tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch offers a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, making it a great option for those who prioritize a distinct 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Cold Plum both use nylon as a material for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon's properties of absorbing sound effectively create a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the typing experience. However, the Bubblegum utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a more muted sound compared to the Cold Plum's nylon top housing. This difference in top housing materials leads to a distinct sound profile for each switch, with the Bubblegum offering a unique and pleasing sound that stands out.
Although both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Cold Plum have different top housing materials that impact their sound profiles. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Cold Plum's nylon top housing generates a fuller and rounder sound when typing. These variations in top housing materials result in differences in sound quality and overall typing experience between the two switches. However, the common use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that they both offer a similar level of sound absorption and typing comfort.
In terms of construction, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Cold Plum showcase how the choice of housing materials can significantly influence the sound output of mechanical switches. The split between the bottom and top housing materials allows for a unique combination of sound profiles in each switch. When comparing the impact of bottom and top housings on the sound and feel of the switches, it is evident that the choice of material plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. Whether it is the POM top housing of the Bubblegum or the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in actuation force and bottom out force. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a light typing experience. In contrast, the Cold Plum switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, offering a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Bubblegum switch more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those seeking a stronger push feel may lean towards the Cold Plum switch for a more robust typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, with the Bubblegum being lighter and the Cold Plum being medium-heavy.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum in terms of travel distance, with the Cold Plum being slightly shorter than the Bubblegum. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Cold Plum due to its slightly shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Bubblegum. In general, the difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may not be significant for many users, as they will likely achieve similar results in terms of typing experience and 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 Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy noise that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a thocky sound profile, giving a unique and satisfying typing experience with its fully nylon construction. Depending on personal preference, the Bubblegum may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced and clicky sound, while the Cold Plum might suit individuals looking for a quieter yet equally enjoyable typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives keystrokes a lively and responsive feel. In contrast, information on the feel of the Outemu Cold Plum switch is not available. However, based on the description of the Bubblegum switch, it is likely that the Cold Plum switch will also offer a smooth and satisfying keystroke experience, potentially with its own unique characteristics.
In conclusion, both the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer distinct qualities that can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Bubblegum excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel, the Cold Plum stands out with its thocky sound and smooth keystroke experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and appreciate a thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke, the Cold Plum switch may be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what feels most comfortable to you.
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