Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting two mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean are worth considering. The Bubblegum, a linear switch from Gold Grain, is celebrated for its striking colorways and delivers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a top pick for enthusiasts looking to delve into the innovative side of their hobby. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean is a linear switch with no standout features mentioned, offering a more understated option for keyboard users. While the Bubblegum is known for being 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Dustproof Silent Ocean lacks specific categorizations. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch. 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Silent Ocean both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing to produce a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of the bottom housing, both switches use nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound characteristics.
One key difference between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a more subdued sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Dustproof Silent Ocean makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the switch. However, both switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housing, resulting in a deep and full sound that adds to the overall typing experience.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are split between the two switches. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Despite these differences, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean offer a unique typing experience with their distinct housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in both 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, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for typists who prefer a heavier keypress. The Dustproof Silent Ocean switch would be more suitable for individuals looking for a medium to heavy typing experience, while the Bubblegum switch is better for those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly longer than the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the market. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for quicker response times. However, some users may find that shorter travel distances feel too abrupt and prefer the more traditional deeper travel distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in key travel.
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 Silent Ocean 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 typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. In contrast, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. Depending on other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used, the sound produced by both switches could vary.
Moving on to feel, the Bubblegum linear switch is often described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives a sense of rebound when the keys are pressed. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. While both switches are linear, the feel of the keystrokes may differ subtly based on individual preferences.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is characterized by its clacky sound and bouncy feel, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts looking for an innovative typing experience. On the other hand, limited information is available about the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch in terms of sound and feel. If you are seeking a similar typing experience with a quieter and potentially smoother feel, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch could be a viable option to explore. Ultimately, personal preference and testing the switches firsthand will help determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Bubblegum with its 45-gram bottom out force may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier key press, the Dustproof Silent Ocean with its 65-gram bottom out force may be the better choice. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a distinctive clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum is a great option to explore. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should align with your typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
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