Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Durock Piano are both notable mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch, a linear switch from Gold Grain, stands out with its captivating colorways and clacky typing experience, appealing to enthusiasts looking for an innovative and satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the Durock Piano, also a linear switch, is praised for its smooth and creamy typing experience, thanks to its proprietary material blend that provides a frictionless and silky feel. While the Bubblegum is described as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Piano is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', and 'Silky'. 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
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Durock Piano both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum utilizes a POM top housing, known for its pleasing and muted sound, while the Piano boasts a proprietary POM blend top housing that offers a deep and satisfying sound profile. In terms of the bottom housing, the Bubblegum incorporates a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Piano features a POM blend bottom housing with similar deep sound characteristics.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Zuoce Bubblegum and Durock Piano, both switches are designed to provide a uniquely satisfying sound experience. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum contributes to a deeper and more muted sound, while the proprietary POM blend top housing of the Piano offers a deep and satisfying sound profile. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Bubblegum creates a fuller sound, while the POM blend bottom housing of the Piano mirrors these deep sound characteristics.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and Durock Piano each bring unique qualities to the switches, resulting in distinct sound profiles. Although the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, they both aim to provide a deep and satisfying typing experience. Whether it's the POM top housing of the Bubblegum or the proprietary POM blend top housing of the Piano, users can expect a high-quality sound output from both switches.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch boasts a lightweight actuation force of 37 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Durock Piano linear switch has an unknown actuation force but a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The Bubblegum switch would be considered the lighter of the two, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue may be a concern. On the other hand, the Piano switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, while the actuation forces may differ, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, catering to a variety of preferences.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Durock Piano linear switch. The Bubblegum switch offers a quicker and more responsive feel, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Piano switch provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more modern feel compared to traditional switches with longer travel distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 sharp and snappy clacky sound, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience with each key press. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch presents a deep and rich bassy sound profile that resonates with a lower frequency range, offering a sense of depth and richness to the typing experience. Both switches have distinct sound signatures that can enhance the overall typing atmosphere, but the Bubblegum leans towards a more percussive tone while the Piano offers a smoother and deeper sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bubblegum switch is characterized by a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience with its lively feel and rebound effect. In contrast, the Durock Piano switch offers a frictionless and silky typing experience, giving users an extremely smooth and effortless feel when pressing the keys. This frictionless quality minimizes any sense of resistance or friction, while the silky texture adds an extra layer of smoothness to the typing process. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the Bubblegum focusing on a bouncy sensation and the Piano emphasizing a silky smoothness.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch each bring their own set of subjective qualities to the table. The Bubblegum stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, catering to users who enjoy a sharp and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Piano excels in its bassy sound profile and frictionless, silky feel, appealing to those who prefer a deep and smooth typing sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can select either switch knowing that they will get distinctive results that enhance their overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a light bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a bouncy feel and a sharp, snappy sound when pressed, perfect for those who enjoy a lively and playful typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a deep, creamy sound signature, the Durock Piano linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. With its silky smooth feel and bassy sound profile, it provides a luxurious and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Bubblegum and Piano switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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