Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Silent Yellow, both of which are linear switches. The Zuoce Bubblegum switch, from the manufacturer Gold Grain, stands out with its unique and eye-catching colorways, offering a satisfyingly clacky typing experience that appeals to keyboard enthusiasts looking for something different. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While the Bubblegum switch is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Silent Yellow remains unclassified. 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
60g
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 Zuoce Bubblegum and Outemu Silent Yellow both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow allows for more vibrant RGB lighting compared to the opaque POM top housing of the Bubblegum. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, known for providing a deep and fuller sound profile. This commonality in the bottom housing material may result in a similar typing experience despite the differences in the top housing materials.
The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings in the Zuoce Bubblegum and Outemu Silent Yellow splits the qualities each material brings to the switch. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Its softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material dictates the sound when a key is released. The Bubblegum's POM top housing produces a more muted sound upon key release, while the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper and more resonant sound as the key is lifted.
While the Zuoce Bubblegum and Outemu Silent Yellow may have different top housing materials, they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This shared material contributes to a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The differences in sound produced by the top housing materials, POM and polycarbonate, may create distinct typing experiences in terms of sharpness and resonance. Ultimately, the choice between the Bubblegum and Silent Yellow will come down to personal preference for sound profile and aesthetics, with the nylon bottom housing providing a consistent feel across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, significant differences are evident. The Bubblegum switch has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Silent Yellow switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Bubblegum switch makes it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Silent Yellow switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the Bubblegum has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Silent Yellow's 4 mm. The Bubblegum is better suited for those who prioritize faster response times and prefer a shorter travel distance, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow offers a slightly longer travel distance, making it more ideal for those who prefer a deeper key press and a more traditional typing experience. Both switches provide unique experiences depending on personal preference, with the Bubblegum offering a quicker, more responsive feel, and the Silent Yellow providing a more deliberate keystroke with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing preferences and desired feel.
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 Silent Yellow 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 unique and distinctive clacky typing experience. This means that when you press the keys, you will hear a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is not available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy sensation. This means that when typing on a keyboard equipped with Bubblegum switches, you will experience a spring-like or elastic feedback from the keys. The keys feel lively and offer a noticeable rebound when pressed. Unfortunately, details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch are not provided.
In conclusion, while the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is praised for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, information regarding the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is lacking. If you enjoy a clacky typing sound and a bouncy key feel, the Bubblegum switch may be a suitable choice for you. However, since data on the Silent Yellow switch is unknown, it's recommended to try out both switches or seek further information before making a decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider your preference for key weight and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing sound, the Bubblegum switch may be the perfect choice for you, especially if you enjoy exploring innovative keyboard offerings. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences for key weight and typing sound. Happy typing!
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