Zuoce Bubblegum vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to choose from are the Zuoce Bubblegum and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain is praised for its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, appealing to enthusiasts seeking innovation in their keyboards. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is known for its extremely quiet sound profile, smooth feel, and pillowy sensation while typing. Each switch offers its own set of qualities - the Bubblegum with a 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy' feel, and the Silent Frozen with a 'Thocky', 'Creamy', and 'Buttery' sensation. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Bubblegum, with its POM top housing, produces a deeper and more muted sound, while the Silent Frozen (V2) with its polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Frozen (V2) is more likely to be used for RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the switch design. On the other hand, the Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen (V2).
While the Bubblegum and the Silent Frozen (V2) have different top and bottom housing materials, the overall sound profile of each switch is a mix of the qualities brought by these materials. The Bubblegum's POM top housing influences the sound when a key is released, while the nylon bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Similarly, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Frozen (V2) affects the sound when a key is released, while the polycarbonate bottom housing plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a more nuanced tactile and auditory experience when using these switches.
In summary, the choice of housing material in switches like the Zuoce Bubblegum and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. While the Bubblegum offers a deeper and fuller sound with its POM top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Silent Frozen (V2) provides a sharper and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings. Both switches showcase how different housing materials can influence the typing experience, catering to different preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, we can see that both switches have relatively light weights. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Silent Frozen (V2) has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. Both switches offer a light typing experience, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. The slight difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, resulting in comparable typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel between the top and bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their identical travel distance. As a result, there is no difference in the travel distance between the two switches, making them equally suitable for users looking for a smooth and linear typing feel.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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
In terms of sound, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch offers a clacky experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch provides a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound profile that eliminates the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment, users may prefer the clacky sound of the Bubblegum for its more pronounced feedback, while others may opt for the Silent Frozen's quiet and muted profile for a more discreet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy feedback, giving users a spring-like and lively sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch offers a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience, characterized by smooth and fluid key presses that glide effortlessly under the fingers. This smooth and refined feel of the Silent Frozen switch may appeal to those looking for a typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and enhances overall comfort during extended periods of use.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the Bubblegum provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience with its sharp sound and lively feedback, the Silent Frozen switch delivers a thocky and buttery typing sensation with its quiet and smooth key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you in a keyboard switch. If you prioritize a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel and a vibrant colorway, the Bubblegum switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a silent, smooth, and pillowy typing experience with a thocky sound profile and a variety of buttery, feathery, and polished feel options, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, sound preference, and desired key feel to enhance your overall keyboarding enjoyment.
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