Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Outemu Dustproof Blue offer distinct typing experiences. The Zuoce Bubblegum, a linear switch, is best known for its captivating blend of two eye-catching colorways and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. This makes it a prime choice for keyboard enthusiasts looking to explore the innovative frontier of their hobby. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch with no specific standout features mentioned. While both switches have their own unique characteristics, deciding between them ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Dustproof Blue both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Bubblegum housing creates a more pleasing and unique sound profile, while the polycarbonate in the Dustproof Blue housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This quality is consistent in both the Bubblegum and the Dustproof Blue switches, highlighting the reliability and effectiveness of nylon as a housing material. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, each switch still maintains its unique sound profile due to other factors such as the top housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in the sound profile and overall typing experience. While the Bubblegum and Dustproof Blue switches may share similarities in bottom housing material, their top housing materials create distinct sound profiles – with POM in the Bubblegum delivering a more pleasing and muted sound compared to the crisper sound produced by polycarbonate in the Dustproof Blue. Understanding how each material interacts with the switch components can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. In comparison, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. While the Bubblegum offers a lighter touch, the Dustproof Blue offers a more resistant typing experience. Both switches have different weights, catering to individuals with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Bubblegum switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Blue switch. This means that the Bubblegum switch may provide a slightly quicker response time, which can be favored by gamers who need fast reactions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a bit more depth to the key press, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches provide different typing experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Dustproof Blue 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 nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This creates a crisp, bright, and percussive typing experience that appeals to those who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other variables such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bubblegum is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation and elastic feedback when typing. This bouncy nature gives the keys a lively feel, offering users a sense of rebound and responsiveness with each keystroke. Unfortunately, information about the tactile feel of the Dustproof Blue switch is not available, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in this category.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offers a uniquely clacky sound and a bouncy feel, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking an innovative typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch remain unknown, it is safe to assume that both switches would provide similar results in terms of sound and feel based on their respective switch types. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each individual user is looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a light and bouncy typing experience with a striking colorway and clacky sound, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clicky sound and are not concerned about color options, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch would be more suitable. Consider your preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best match for your keyboard needs.
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