Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Silent Ink Black both offer unique features worth considering. The Bubblegum switch stands out with its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a great choice for enthusiasts looking to add an innovative touch to their keyboards. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch is perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, thanks to its silent operation and cushiony bottom-out feel. The Bubblegum switch is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', while the Silent Ink Black switch falls under 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a sharper and clackier sound. In terms of bottom housings, the Bubblegum's nylon material gives a fuller and rounder sound, while the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing maintains a high-pitched and clacky sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their own sound characteristics.
While the Bubblegum's POM and nylon housing materials create a pleasing and unique sound with a softer and deeper profile, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings contribute to a more pointed and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. The combination of these housing materials in each switch results in distinct auditory feedback that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound or a sharper and clackier sound, both the Bubblegum and Silent Ink Black switches offer a variety of tactile experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of construction, the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material will dictate the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. In this case, the POM and nylon materials in the Bubblegum switch provide a different tactile feel compared to the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum is lighter in terms of force required for both actuation and bottom out. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option suitable for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black has a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for key presses.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have different travel distances. The Bubblegum has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Ink Black has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Silent Ink Black switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Bubblegum switch. The 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, while the 3.5mm is slightly shorter. Gamers, who require faster response times, may prefer the Bubblegum switch with its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Silent Ink Black switch more suitable due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the user's typing or gaming 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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 percussive sound when pressed. This can add a level of energy and tactile feedback to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch provides a muted sound profile, perfect for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Its softer sound can create a more calming typing experience without compromising on the overall tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a more vibrant and engaging sound (Bubblegum) or a quieter and more subdued sound (Silent Ink Black).
In terms of feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its bouncy sensation, offering a spring-like feedback that adds a level of liveliness to your typing. This can be particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a bit of bounce and rebound in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This smoothness is further enhanced by the polished finish of the switch, ensuring a sleek and refined typing feel. If you prefer a more lively and bouncy typing experience, the Bubblegum switch may be the better choice, while the Silent Ink Black switch is ideal for those who prioritize smoothness and refinement in their keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bubblegum switch provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience, perfect for those seeking a more energetic and tactile feedback, while the Silent Ink Black switch offers a softer and quieter typing experience with a silky smoothness and polished finish. Depending on your preferences for sound profile and key feel, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style. However, keep in mind that both switches are linear switches, so you can expect similar smooth keystrokes without the tactile bump of a tactile switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Zuoce Bubblegum switch if you are looking for a light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a unique aesthetic and a lively keyboard feedback. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and desire a muted, silky typing experience with a polished finish. This switch is perfect for environments where noise levels need to be kept low and for users who appreciate a smooth and refined typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Choose the one that best aligns with your typing needs and preferences to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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