Zuoce Bubblegum vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Speed Silver both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain is known for its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a popular choice for those looking for a tactile and bouncy feel while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is favored by those who prioritize a fast and precise typing experience, thanks to its light-medium resistance and pristine sound profile. The Speed Silver switches also feature a reduced travel distance for quick and effortless actuation. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Speed Silver both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, resulting in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Bubblegum features a POM top housing, known for creating a deep and muted sound profile, while its nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller and rounder typing experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, and a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller typing sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles thanks to their use of different housing materials.
The use of POM and polycarbonate in the top housings of the Bubblegum and Speed Silver, respectively, results in contrasting sound profiles. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a fuller and deeper sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Despite these differences, both housing materials play a crucial role in defining the overall sound and feel of the switches.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience, it is clear that both components contribute to the overall sound profile. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This highlights the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials when designing switches, as each material brings unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. In the case of the Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Speed Silver, the combination of POM, polycarbonate, and nylon housing materials results in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Bubblegum switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. This means that the Bubblegum switch would be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Speed Silver switch may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for typing force and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance could be noticeable to some users. Gamers who prefer a slightly deeper key press may opt for the Bubblegum switch, while those who prefer a slightly quicker actuation may lean towards the Speed Silver switch. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a more responsive typing or gaming experience.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 switch offers a clacky typing experience, giving off a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Bubblegum being more crisp and bright, while the Speed Silver is suitable for a wider range of users due to its moderate sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch provides a bouncy typing experience, giving keys a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This adds a lively feel to typing, providing a satisfying rebound when keys are pressed. In comparison, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a mild typing experience, falling in the safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Additionally, the Speed Silver switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum and TTC Speed Silver switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel for a fast and precise typing experience, the Speed Silver switch is a solid choice. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choosing between them would depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch or the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter switch with a more tactile and clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch that offers a fast and precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile, then the Speed Silver would be the better option. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision.
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