Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
For enthusiasts seeking a tactile experience, the Outemu Ocean switch offers a unique option with its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch boasts a sleek design and a smooth typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While the Ocean switch is ideal for those who enjoy the tactile sensation, the Bubblegum switch is great for users who appreciate a bouncy, clacky feel. 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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Ocean differ in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard. In terms of bottom housing, both switches use nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Overall, the materials used in the housings of these switches contribute to unique sound profiles and aesthetics.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing of both the Bubblegum and Ocean switches provide similar sound profiles. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures that users can expect a deep and full sound regardless of which switch they choose. However, the impact of the top housing material cannot be overlooked, as it plays a significant role in influencing the sound when typing or releasing a key. The choice between POM and polycarbonate top housing ultimately depends on personal preference for sound profile and aesthetic preferences.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Zuoce Bubblegum and Outemu Ocean switches offers users a variety of sound profiles to choose from. While the POM top housing of the Bubblegum provides a unique and deeper sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Ocean offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches use nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent deep and full sound profile. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound profile and aesthetics, as each housing material brings its own unique characteristics to the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, the actuation force of the Bubblegum is lighter at 37 grams compared to the Ocean's 55 grams, making the Bubblegum easier to trigger a keystroke with a lighter touch. In terms of bottom out force, the Bubblegum requires 45 grams to press all the way down, while the Ocean's force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions may lean towards the Bubblegum, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may find the Ocean more suitable. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out force, offering a variety of options for users to choose from depending on their typing needs and preferences.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Ocean tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bubblegum switch offers a quicker and more responsive typing experience, making it an ideal choice for gamers or those who prefer a shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Ocean switch provides a slightly deeper key press, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or programming tasks. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distance, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 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 offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound is not available. Depending on other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, the Bubblegum's clacky sound may be more pronounced and satisfying to some users.
Moving on to the feel, the Bubblegum linear switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like and energetic feedback sensation when typing. The keys have a lively feel with a noticeable rebound when pressed, adding a dynamic element to the typing experience. Unfortunately, details on the feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch are not provided. For those seeking a switch with a lively and bouncy feel, the Bubblegum linear switch would be a suitable choice.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, offering a unique and captivating typing experience for enthusiasts. While information on the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is sparse, if one is looking for a similar level of auditory satisfaction and tactile feedback, opting for the Bubblegum switch may provide a comparable result. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch or the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a light bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, then the Bubblegum switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feel with no bottom out force information available, the Ocean switch may be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so take the time to test them out and see which one aligns better with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience.
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