Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Outemu Phoenix offer unique experiences for users looking for different typing sensations. The Bubblegum, a linear switch from Gold Grain, is beloved for its satisfyingly clacky typing experience and vibrant colorways, making it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking something bold and innovative. On the other hand, the Phoenix, a clicky switch with an under-skirt click mechanism, provides a crystalline and sparkling sound and feel profile that stands out as one of the most unique clicky switches on the market. While the Bubblegum offers a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Phoenix provides a crunchy and polished feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what kind of typing experience you are looking for. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Phoenix, we see a clear distinction in sound profiles based on their respective materials. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a more muted and deeper sound, offering a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Phoenix's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, thanks to its stiffer composition. The aesthetics also play a role, with the translucent polycarbonate being ideal for RGB lighting setups. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, users may prefer one over the other based on personal preferences for typing sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Bubblegum's nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded typing experience. In contrast, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing mirrors the sharp and crisp sound of its top housing, adding to the overall clarity and resonance of the typing sound. This difference in bottom housing material further emphasizes the unique sound profiles of each switch. While nylon absorbs more sound for a duller effect, polycarbonate's stiffness enhances clarity and resonance, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housing materials on typing experience, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are divided between the two halves of the switch. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing affects the sound produced when releasing a key, adding another layer of customization to the typing experience. While both the Bubblegum and Phoenix offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a versatile and customizable typing experience.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Bubblegum also has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams in contrast to the Phoenix's heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Bubblegum switch may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Phoenix switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of weight, the Bubblegum switch is lighter overall compared to the Phoenix switch, which may influence the decision of users based on their preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The difference between the two switches may not be significant for most users, as they both offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for the feel of the switch during typing or gaming.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 experience with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This type of sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, making each keystroke satisfying and distinctive. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. This unique sound profile adds a fun and tactile element to typing, giving users an auditory experience like no other.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback when pressed. This bounciness gives the keys a lively feel, allowing for quick and responsive typing. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix switch offers a polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, users can enjoy a comfortable and effortless typing experience with these switches.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the sharp and clacky sound of the Bubblegum switch or the crunchy sound of the Phoenix switch, each option provides a distinct typing experience that can enhance your overall enjoyment of using a mechanical keyboard. Both switches offer great qualities that make them stand out in their respective categories, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users looking to explore the innovative frontier of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light press with a satisfyingly clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium press with a unique crystalline sound and a polished, smooth typing experience, the Phoenix switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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