Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The Bubblegum switch, with its vibrant colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, is ideal for those looking to add a touch of innovation to their setup. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch offers a more traditional clicky feel, perfect for those who prefer a tactile response. 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
N/A
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 main difference between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Milk Blue lies in their housing materials. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the POM housing of the Bubblegum is known for its pleasing and distinctive sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Milk Blue is favored for its clarity and resonance, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, both the Bubblegum and the Milk Blue utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housings, both switches offer a similar typing experience with regards to the impact of the nylon bottom housing on the overall sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound, emphasizing the deep tones during typing.
Overall, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Milk Blue may come down to personal preference regarding sound profile. The Bubblegum's POM top housing provides a more subdued and unique sound, whereas the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing offers a crisper and sharper sound. However, with both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar depth and fullness in sound during typing. Ultimately, the decision may be influenced by factors such as aesthetic preferences and the desired sound experience.
Weight
In comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. This means that the Bubblegum switch would require less force to register a keystroke, making it a more nimble option for typing or gaming. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bubblegum switch requires 45 grams to fully press down, whereas the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unknown. The difference in bottom out force suggests that the Milk Blue switch may provide a more substantial typing experience due to potentially requiring more force to fully press down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is 0.5 mm shorter than that of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch. The Bubblegum has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Milk Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Bubblegum may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Milk Blue may provide a more substantive key press experience for those who prefer greater depth. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between the two will ultimately depend on 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 Milk 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
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its satisfyingly clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a lively element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown. When it comes to feel, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation with a lively feel and good rebound when keys are pressed. Unfortunately, the feel of the Milk Blue switch is not specified.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offers a unique and captivating typing experience with a clacky sound and bouncy feel. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch remain unknown, it is important to consider factors such as keycaps and keyboard build which can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. If you enjoy the characteristics of the Bubblegum switch, you may find similar results with the Milk Blue switch in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a light and bouncy typing experience with a satisfyingly clacky sound, the Bubblegum switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a different set of characteristics, such as bottom out force or sound profile, the Milk Blue switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Happy typing!