Zuoce Bubblegum vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch and KTT Purple Click switch are both unique mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The Bubblegum switch, known for its captivating blend of striking colorways and clacky typing experience, is a prime choice for enthusiasts looking to explore the innovative frontier of their hobby. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch, also referred to as Purple Sauce, offers a high-pitched, satisfying click with light keystrokes and pronounced tactility. While the Bubblegum switch is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Purple Click switch is categorized as 'Crunchy', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant', and 'Stepped'. When deciding between these two switches, it ultimately boils down to personal preference. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Purple Click both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, which creates a deep and muted sound profile, while the Purple Click utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Click is more likely to be used for RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding a visual appeal to the switch. However, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics.
While the top housing of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Purple Click differ in material and sound profile, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. However, the split in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience differently. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. This division of qualities between the two housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience depending on which aspect of the switch is being engaged.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Purple Click showcase how different housing materials can influence the overall sound profile of a switch. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum provides a unique and muted sound, contrasting with the crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Click. Despite this difference, both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The combination of these different housing materials results in a diverse typing experience that highlights the importance of housing materials in the overall design and functionality of mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is evident 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 Purple Click has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Bubblegum offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Purple Click provides a slightly heavier typing experience, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Purple Click being more standard. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Bubblegum switch due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Purple Click. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 offers a clacky typing experience, emphasizing a sharp and percussive noise that is crisp and bright. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch delivers a crunchy and resonant click that is higher-pitched and clean, providing an immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Bubblegum being more sharp and snappy, while the Purple Click is more crisp and immersive.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch provides a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like and lively feedback that enhances the typing experience. On the contrary, the Purple Click switch offers an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive sensation that creates an immersive typing experience. Additionally, the Purple Click switch has a stepped feel, providing a more subtle tactile feedback with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages compared to the more straightforward bounciness of the Bubblegum switch.
Overall, both the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Bubblegum excels in providing a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, while the Purple Click stands out with a high-pitched and resonant click, along with an invigorating and stepped tactile sensation. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a light bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, then the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch would be a fantastic choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a high-pitched, satisfying click and a tactility that is pronounced without being overwhelming, then the KTT Purple Click clicky switch would be the perfect fit for you. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience when deciding between these two switches to ensure you find the one that best suits your needs and preferences in a mechanical keyboard switch.