Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain is praised for its clacky and bouncy feel, perfect for enthusiasts looking to explore new frontiers in their hobby. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their bright and clacky characteristics with a light touch, ideal for users seeking an energetic and responsive typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that appeal to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The Zuoce Bubblegum's housing materials provide a unique sound experience compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. However, both switches use polycarbonate bottom housings, leading to a consistent crisp and resonant sound profile shared between them. This difference in top housing material results in a distinct auditory experience for each switch, catering to individual preferences for sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Bubblegum's housing materials offer a different visual experience compared to the Salt Ice. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum provides a unique look and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Salt Ice is geared towards incorporating RGB lighting for a more visually appealing setup. Despite these differences, both switches feature polycarbonate bottom housings, ensuring transparency and a sleek appearance. The choice between these two switches may ultimately come down to personal preferences for both sound profile and visual design.
The impact of housing materials on switch performance is noticeable in how they affect the sound and feel of typing. The differences between the nylon bottom housing of the Bubblegum and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice contribute to the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. These distinctions highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the overall user experience and showcase the diversity in sound profiles that can be achieved with different materials.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Bubblegum requires 45 grams, while the Salt Ice force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Bubblegum switch makes it suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming use, providing a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch with a higher actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. In terms of weight, the Bubblegum is lighter overall, offering a smoother typing experience, while the Salt Ice switch may provide a more solid and firm keystroke due to its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. The Bubblegum has a slightly longer travel distance at 3.5mm, while the Salt Ice comes in at 3.4mm. Although the difference is minimal, some users may feel a slightly more noticeable travel on the Bubblegum compared to the Salt Ice. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice, while those who enjoy a bit more depth and cushion when typing might lean towards the Bubblegum. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance and will provide similar results in terms of key feel 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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, although specific details on sound are not provided. Both switches promise an engaging auditory experience, but the Bubblegum switch may have a slightly more pronounced and distinct sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Bubblegum switch is praised for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like or elastic sensation when typing. This lively feel gives users a sense of rebound when pressing the keys, adding an energetic touch to the typing experience. Details on the feel of the Salt Ice switch are not provided, but considering its bright and clacky characteristics, it may offer a similar level of responsiveness and feedback as the Bubblegum switch.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches both offer unique and appealing qualities that cater to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch stands out with its clacky sound and bouncy feel, making it a prime choice for enthusiasts seeking a lively and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch boasts exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, promising an energetic and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both are sure to deliver an engaging and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when it comes to choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a light bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing sound, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch for effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switch could be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Consider what type of sound and feel you prefer in a keyboard switch, and choose accordingly between these two unique options.
Mentioned in this article
