Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Spring Breeze offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Zuoce Bubblegum, a linear switch, stands out for its captivating blend of eye-catching colorways and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. This switch is ideal for keyboard enthusiasts looking to explore the innovative frontier of their hobby, as it falls under the categories of 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy'. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze is a clicky switch that is best known for its crisp audible feedback with every keystroke. While it is lacking specific distinguishing characteristics, it offers a classic clicky typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and specific typing needs; however, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Spring Breeze both use nylon for their bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, the Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted, while the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile but in a different way. The POM material of the Bubblegum gives it a distinct sound profile compared to the Spring Breeze.
In terms of the impact on the typing experience, the qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The nylon bottom housing of both the Bubblegum and Spring Breeze contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether it be POM in the case of the Bubblegum or nylon for the Spring Breeze, affects the sound when releasing a key. This difference in materials can result in a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches.
While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the Zuoce Bubblegum's POM top housing provides a unique sound profile compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze's nylon top housing. However, the use of nylon in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. The impact of the housing material on the typing experience is split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with slightly different sound profiles due to their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Spring Breeze switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. The difference in forces between the two switches means that the Bubblegum switch will feel lighter and require less pressure to type, while the Spring Breeze switch will offer a bit more resistance and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with the Bubblegum switch being lighter and the Spring Breeze switch offering a slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bubblegum provides a slightly shorter travel distance than the Spring Breeze, making it more suitable for those seeking quicker response times during gaming. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, so users can expect similar responsiveness from either option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Spring Breeze 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 and sharp sound profile, providing a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have specific sound characteristics mentioned, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, both switches can be affected by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used, ultimately influencing the overall sound produced during typing.
Moving on to feel, the Bubblegum switch is praised for its bouncy and spring-like feedback, offering a lively sensation with a noticeable rebound when keys are pressed. Conversely, information on the tactile feel of the Spring Breeze switch is not available for comparison. Despite the lack of specific details on the feel of the Spring Breeze switch, it is important to consider individual preferences in terms of key press feedback when choosing between these two switches.
Taking all available information into account, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and bouncy feel, making it an attractive option for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique and engaging typing experience. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch are not explicitly outlined, it is important to consider personal preferences and test both switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches is key to finding the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a light bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience with a unique colorway, the Bubblegum switch is a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a clicky typing experience, the Spring Breeze switch might be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound, as well as the specific features that each switch offers. Happy typing!
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