Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Crystal Brown. The Zuoce Bubblegum, a linear switch, is a standout choice for those looking for a vibrant and unique switch that offers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, provides a more traditional typing feel without any specific standout features. If you prefer a switch with a distinctive look and a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum may be the way to go. 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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Crystal Brown both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. While the Bubblegum uses a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing, the Crystal Brown features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal Brown produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material.
The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Crystal Brown allows for a split in the qualities each housing material brings to the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, primarily nylon, will impact the bottom-out sound and feel. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile that is deeper and fuller. Conversely, the top housing material, whether POM or polycarbonate, will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This demonstrates how the choice of housing material can influence the overall sound profile and typing experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Outemu Crystal Brown provides a clear and translucent appearance, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Zuoce Bubblegum may not offer the same level of light diffusion and visual appeal when paired with RGB lighting. However, both switches offer different sound profiles due to their housing materials, with the Bubblegum offering a more muted and deeper sound, while the Crystal Brown provides a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which requires 45 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Bubblegum switch has a lighter pressure of 45 grams, while the Crystal Brown switch requires 55 grams to bottom out. The Bubblegum switch is overall lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Crystal Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bubblegum. A shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gamers seeking quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Both switches offer different travel distances that cater to various user needs, providing users with the option to choose based on their individual preferences.
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 Crystal Brown 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
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its satisfyingly clacky sound, producing a sharp and percussive noise when pressed. This sound can add a tactile element to the typing experience, enhancing the overall enjoyment for users who appreciate audible feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Bubblegum is praised for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that gives users a lively feel and rebound when typing. This bouncy feel can add a playful and dynamic element to the typing experience, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a responsive and tactile switch. On the flip side, the feel of the Crystal Brown switch is not described in the provided information, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in terms of feel. However, users can expect a similar experience of bounciness and responsiveness from the Crystal Brown switch if it falls under the tactile category like the Bubblegum switch.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch boasts a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, offering a unique and enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts looking to explore innovative switch options. While the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch remain unknown, users can anticipate a similar level of satisfaction and responsiveness from this switch if it aligns with the tactile category as the Bubblegum switch. Ultimately, both switches present exciting opportunities for keyboard enthusiasts to enhance their typing experiences and customize their setups to suit their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and visually appealing switch that delivers a clacky typing experience, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a light bottom out force of 45 grams and a bouncy feel, it is perfect for those who enjoy a responsive and lively typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactile switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch might be more suitable for you. While it may not have the same visual flair as the Bubblegum, it offers a different typing experience that some users may find more comfortable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel, sound profile, and visual aesthetics.
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