Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Dareu Snow are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for keyboard enthusiasts. The Bubblegum switch, known for its captivating blend of eye-catching colorways, provides a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, perfect for those looking to explore the innovative frontier of their hobby. On the other hand, the Snow switch distinguishes itself with its use of POK material for a deeper sound signature during typing. While the Bubblegum is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Snow switch is described as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their individual characteristics will help you make the best choice for your needs.
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
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum utilizes a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Dareu Snow features a POK top housing and a nylon bottom housing. Both switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. However, the Bubblegum's POM top housing offers a unique and pleasing sound profile on the deeper side, while the Snow's POK top housing provides a smooth, clacky sound with exceptional durability, surpassing even nylon in wear and shock resistance.
Despite the difference in top housing materials between the Bubblegum and the Snow, they both offer qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a more muted sound with a deeper tone, while the POK top housing of the Snow produces a smooth and clacky sound that is highly durable. In terms of sound and feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material impacts the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the importance of both materials in achieving the desired typing experience.
In terms of material properties, the POK top housing of the Dareu Snow stands out for its exceptional wear and shock resistance, surpassing both nylon and POM in durability. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Zuoce Bubblegum offers a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Both switches benefit from the properties of nylon in their bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. Overall, while the top housing materials differ between the Bubblegum and the Snow, they both contribute to creating a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles and levels of durability.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is clear that the Bubblegum is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Snow. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Bubblegum provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the Snow offers a slightly heavier feel, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force, with the Bubblegum being the lighter option and the Snow being the heavier option.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both of these switches have shorter travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, so the Bubblegum may be more suitable for gaming purposes. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Snow with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress 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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a deeper sound signature due to the innovative use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a thocky, low-pitched sound that is rich and satisfying. While the Bubblegum switch leans towards a more sharp and clacky sound, the Snow switch delivers a deeper and more mellow tone, offering a different auditory experience to users.
In terms of feel, both the Bubblegum and Snow linear switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation when pressed. This bouncy feel gives the keys a lively rebound, adding a dynamic element to the typing experience. The similarity in feel between these switches suggests that users can expect a consistent tactile feedback and satisfying rebound when typing on either the Bubblegum or Snow switches.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, users can expect different sound profiles with the Bubblegum offering a clacky sound and the Snow offering a thocky, low-pitched sound. Both switches provide a bouncy feel, giving users a lively and responsive typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, enthusiasts can choose between the sharp and snappy sound of the Bubblegum switch or the deeper, more satisfying sound of the Snow switch. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for those looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky typing experience with eye-catching colorways, the Bubblegum may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and appreciate a deeper sound signature with innovative POK material construction, the Snow switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
