Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Maple Leaf offer distinct experiences for users. The Zuoce Bubblegum, a linear switch from Gold Grain, stands out with its vibrant color options and satisfyingly clacky typing experience. This switch is ideal for enthusiasts looking for a bouncy and tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that provides a different typing experience. While it may not have the same eye-catching colors as the Bubblegum, the Maple Leaf offers a unique tactile feedback that some users prefer. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 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
pom
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
Both the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Maple Leaf use nylon as their bottom housing material, which means they both elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound that is more pleasing to the ears. However, the top housing materials differ between the two switches. The Bubblegum utilizes POM for its top housing, which creates a unique sound profile that is relatively more muted compared to the fuller sound produced by nylon. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's top housing is also nylon, providing a consistent sound experience throughout the switch.
In terms of overall sound production, the Zuoce Bubblegum's combination of POM top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. The Outemu Maple Leaf, with both top and bottom housing made of nylon, also produces a deep and fuller sound profile that is rounder and duller due to the softer nature of the material. Both switches prioritize creating a pleasing sound experience for users, with the Bubblegum offering a more unique sound profile thanks to its POM top housing, while the Maple Leaf provides a consistent and smooth sound profile with its nylon housing materials.
When comparing the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes clear that the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housings of both the Bubblegum and the Maple Leaf contribute to the deep and fuller sound profile experienced when typing on these switches. On the other hand, the top housing material has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a more muted sound upon key release, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing maintains the switch's consistent sound profile when the key is let go.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, which has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams. Similarly, the Bubblegum's bottom out force of 45 grams is lighter than the Maple Leaf's 65-gram bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Bubblegum switch for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Maple Leaf switch. Both switches offer different levels of feedback and force, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch. In terms of responsiveness, the Bubblegum switch may provide a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster reaction times. However, the Maple Leaf switch offers a bit more depth and may feel less abrupt to some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience. Both switches offer a different feel but are equally effective in providing a satisfying typing experience.
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 Maple Leaf 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
In terms of sound, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a satisfying auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown at this time, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the Bubblegum linear switch is characterized by its bouncy sensation, offering a spring-like or elastic feedback when keys are pressed. This lively feel gives users a sense of rebound and responsiveness while typing, enhancing the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is currently unknown, making it challenging to assess how it compares to the bounciness of the Bubblegum switch.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and bouncy feel, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique and satisfying typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch are currently unknown, users seeking a similar experience to the Bubblegum switch may be able to achieve comparable results depending on their choice of keyboard and keycaps. It is essential for newcomers to explore different switch options and consider their personal preferences to find the perfect fit for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and appreciate a clacky typing experience with a satisfyingly crisp sound, then the Bubblegum switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and value a tactile feedback without any additional descriptors provided, then the Maple Leaf switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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