Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular choices are the Zuoce Bubblegum, a linear switch, and the Outemu Purple, a tactile switch. The Bubblegum switch, known for its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, is a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts looking to delve into the innovative side of their hobby. On the other hand, the Purple switch offers a tactile feedback that is preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced bump while typing. Each switch has its own advantages and appeals to different preferences, but 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
2.00 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 Purple both have unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Purple's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. While the Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing elicits a fuller sound, the Purple also uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper sound profile for both switches. Overall, the top and bottom housing materials of the two switches play a significant role in shaping their sound profiles.
One key difference between the housing materials of the Bubblegum and Purple switches is the impact of the materials on the overall sound and feel of typing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Purple switch leads to a more resonant and clear sound when keys are released, whereas the POM top housing of the Bubblegum offers a more subdued sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the keys. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying and unique typing experience due to their housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing material also plays a role in the overall look of the switches. While polycarbonate is more commonly associated with clear housing for RGB lighting effects, the POM housing of the Bubblegum offers a more subtle and understated appearance. However, both switches prioritize functionality and sound quality over appearance, with their housing materials tailored to enhance the typing experience for users. Whether it be the deeper sound of the Bubblegum or the crisper sound of the Purple, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in achieving a specific sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces vary between the two. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. The bottom out force for the Purple switch is unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and force required to press the keys effectively.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Purple tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. The Bubblegum switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who need fast key presses. On the other hand, the Purple switch provides a more satisfying and deeper press with its longer travel distance, making it a better option for those who prefer a more traditional typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches 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 Purple 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 best known for its captivating colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Bubblegum switch produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have a specific sound description available. Moving on to feel, the Bubblegum switch is noted for its bouncy quality, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with lively keys that give a rebound when pressed. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel description available for the Outemu Purple tactile switch. Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a unique colorway, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch would be a great choice. If you opt for the Outemu Purple tactile switch, while specific information on sound and feel is lacking, you can expect tactile feedback with the potential for a satisfying typing experience similar to other tactile switches on the market.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, you should consider a few factors. If you are looking for a light and clacky typing experience with a bottom out force of 45 grams, then the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain is a great choice for you. It offers a unique blend of colors and delivers a satisfyingly clacky sound and bouncy feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with an unspecified bottom out force, the Outemu Purple switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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