Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch and the Gateron Smoothie are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for keyboard enthusiasts. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain is known for its captivating blend of two eye-catching colorways and delivers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a prime choice for those eager to explore the innovative frontier of their hobby. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is an all-POM switch that boasts a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, all at an affordable price point. While the Bubblegum switch is characterized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Smoothie switch is described as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Each switch offers distinct advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and Gateron Smoothie share similarities in their POM top housings, both creating a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper and more muted profile. However, the key difference lies in their bottom housings. The Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing complements the top housing, contributing to the overall pleasing sound profile with its deeper and muted characteristics.
In terms of sound profile, both switches offer a unique and satisfying experience with the POM top housings creating a deep and muted sound. Where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing adds to the fullness and depth of the sound, absorbing more noise and creating a rounder tone. Conversely, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing complements the top housing with its own deep and muted sound, ensuring a cohesive and consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Gateron Smoothie exhibit differences in their housing materials that influence the sound profile and typing feel. While both switches feature POM top housings that provide a unique and pleasing sound, the Bubblegum stands out with its nylon bottom housing creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing works in harmony with the top housing to maintain a consistent and muted sound characteristic. Whether opting for the Bubblegum or Smoothie, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles influenced by the choice of housing materials.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bubblegum requires 45 grams to fully press a key, while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. The Bubblegum switch offers a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing feel. On the other hand, the Smoothie switch may provide a bit more resistance, making it a better choice for users who prefer a firmer key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing style and feel.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not have a significant impact on most users, as both are shorter than the traditional 4.0mm distance. Those who prefer a more immediate feedback may lean towards the Bubblegum with its slightly shorter travel distance, while users who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may find the Smoothie appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky sound signature, with a deep, rich, and satisfying tone that is low-pitched and subdued. While the Bubblegum switch leans towards a more lively and bouncy feel, the Smoothie switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, if you are looking for a switch with a more striking sound and a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a thocky sound and a smooth, buttery feel, the Gateron Smoothie would be the perfect fit. Regardless of your choice, both switches guarantee a satisfying typing experience that will enhance your overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a keyboard switch. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a remarkable smoothness, a thocky sound signature, and a buttery feel, the Gateron Smoothie could be the ideal option. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired feel when making your decision, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different tastes in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what will enhance your typing experience the most.
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