Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch. The Bubblegum switch, from Gold Grain, boasts a vibrant design with a clacky typing experience, appealing to enthusiasts seeking an innovative feel. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switches are known for their snappy response and buttery downstroke, offering a balanced tactility that enhances typing without being too intense. While these general descriptions provide a starting point, it's essential to delve deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch to determine the best fit for individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's ability to absorb more sound. Despite the differences in top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing provides a similar typing experience for both switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Bubblegum's POM top housing offers a unique look with its solid color, while the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting. The differences in material also affect the feel of the switches when typing, with the bottom housing playing a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Bubblegum and Purple Sakura have contrasting top housing materials, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and Sarokeys Purple Sakura ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Sakura provides a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches share a similar typing experience due to their use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile. Whether you prefer a more unique sound with the Bubblegum or a sharper sound with the Purple Sakura, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is clear that the Bubblegum is lighter in both aspects. The actuation force of the Bubblegum is 37 grams, while the Purple Sakura requires 50 grams for actuation. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Bubblegum is 45 grams compared to the 60 grams needed for the Purple Sakura. This means that the Bubblegum switch will provide a lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Purple Sakura would be the better option due to its heavier forces. Both switches provide a similar result in terms of actuation and bottom out force, with the lighter Bubblegum switch offering an easier typing experience, while the heavier Purple Sakura switch provides a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their fast response times. The Bubblegum switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more of a cushioned feel compared to the Purple Sakura switch. However, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for the specific feel and response desired in a keyboard switch.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 is best described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This can be attributed to the crisp, bright, and percussive nature of the switch. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement that makes it suitable for various user preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the choice of keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that gives the keys a lively feel with a noticeable rebound when pressed. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery downstroke experience, characterized by a smooth and fluid keystroke that feels seamless and effortless. Additionally, the Purple Sakura switch has a mild tactility and a snappy response, resulting in a typing experience that is both responsive and comfortable for extended use.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bubblegum switch excels in providing a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, while the Purple Sakura switch stands out for its neutral sound profile, buttery downstroke, and snappy response. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on whether the user values a sharper sound or a smoother typing 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. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, a snappy response, and a decadently buttery downstroke, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Happy typing!
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