Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Akko Penguin. The Zuoce Bubblegum switch, known for its striking colorways and clacky typing experience, is a linear switch that appeals to enthusiasts looking for a unique and satisfying feel while typing. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch, a tactile switch from Akko, offers a silent yet tactile typing experience, making it ideal for office environments where noise reduction is a priority. While the Bubblegum switch is characterized as 'clacky' and 'bouncy', the Penguin switch is described as 'polished', 'muted', 'mild', 'neutral', 'feathery', and 'subtle'. Both switches have their own advantages, but ultimately the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and specific needs. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Akko Penguin both feature top housing materials that are pivotal in determining the sound profile of the switches. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side, while the Penguin's nylon top housing elicits a fuller and deeper sound profile. Both materials absorb sound effectively due to their softer nature, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound compared to harder plastics. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their top housing materials contributing significantly to the overall sound profile.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Bubblegum and Penguin utilize nylon as their housing material. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. The softer nature of nylon plastic helps in creating a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing may not be as noticeable during typing as the top housing, it still plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the switch when bottoming out.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Zuoce Bubblegum and Akko Penguin, it is clear that the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced when typing and bottoming out, while the top housing contributes more to the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a similar typing experience with their housing materials working together to create a satisfying sound profile. Whether it's the POM top housing of the Bubblegum or the nylon top housing of the Penguin, both switches provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is clear that the Bubblegum is lighter in both aspects. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Bubblegum requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Penguin. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Bubblegum more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Penguin due to its heavier forces. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches offer options for users with varying preferences in typing feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we can see that the Bubblegum has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Penguin's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quicker response times. The Bubblegum may offer a slightly deeper key press feel due to its longer travel distance, while the Penguin may provide a more abrupt and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press 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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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 switch is described as producing a clacky sound, characterized by its sharp and snappy nature, giving off a crisp, bright, and percussive tone with each press. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, which is softer and quieter compared to a clacky switch. The Penguin switch is designed to minimize noise, making it an excellent choice for office settings where noise reduction is essential. Ultimately, if you prefer a more pronounced and lively sound, the Bubblegum switch may be the better option, while the Penguin switch offers a more subdued and office-friendly noise level.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch is noted for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like sensation with keys that have a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The Akko Penguin switch, on the other hand, offers a polished, mild, feathery, and subtle typing experience. This means that the Penguin switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in sleek key travel, with a light actuation force that reduces finger strain and fatigue. Overall, the Bubblegum switch offers a more lively and bouncy typing experience, whereas the Penguin switch provides a smoother and more gentle feel for extended typing sessions in various settings.
Considering the available information, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bubblegum switch excels in providing a clacky sound and bouncy feedback, making it a vibrant and engaging choice for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Penguin switch stands out for its muted sound profile, polished feel, and light actuation force, catering to users looking for a more subdued and comfortable typing experience, especially in office environments. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference for sound, feel, and intended usage, ensuring that each user can find the perfect switch to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a colorful and clacky typing experience with a light actuation force, the Bubblegum switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and tactile typing experience with a medium actuation force, the Penguin switch is a great option, especially for office settings. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing sensation and sound profile you prefer. Whether you go for the lively bounce of the Bubblegum or the smooth polish of the Penguin, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and environments.
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