Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Jwick Splash Brothers stand out as unique options for enthusiasts looking for a satisfying typing experience. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain offers a clacky and bouncy feel, perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile and audible response while typing. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches are known for their neutral, mild, and snappy characteristics, providing a smooth and polished typing experience with a subtle yet creamy sound signature. While both switches offer excellent qualities, such as bounciness and smoothness, they cater to slightly different preferences in typing feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Jwick Splash Brothers both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Splash Brothers's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Splash Brothers is advantageous for RGB lighting due to its translucency, whereas the POM top housing of the Bubblegum offers a pleasing sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches incorporate nylon bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound.
While the top housings of the Bubblegum and Splash Brothers offer different sound profiles, their nylon bottom housings provide a consistent deep and full sound quality. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon, which create a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom parts of the switch means that each contributes to the overall sound experience in different ways. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and Jwick Splash Brothers play a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles. The use of POM in the Bubblegum's top housing results in a unique and pleasing sound, while the Splash Brothers's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, especially suited for RGB lighting. Both switches utilize nylon bottom housings, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite these differences, the split in housing materials between the top and bottom parts of the switches ensures a balanced sound profile with distinct characteristics.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a relatively light bottom out force, with the Bubblegum at 45 grams and the Splash Brothers at 48 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Bubblegum may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers provides a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether one prefers a lighter or a slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users can expect consistent performance and feel when typing or gaming with either switch. Both switches provide a medium travel distance that offers a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Overall, whether you choose the Bubblegum or the Splash Brothers, you can expect to experience a similar key press feel due to their identical travel distances.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch offers a unique and distinctive clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive when pressed. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch provides a creamy and neutral sound signature that is moderate and suitable for a wide range of users. Both switches offer different sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
As for feel, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with lively keys that offer rebound when pressed. In contrast, the Splash Brothers switch has a mild and subtle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. The Jwick Splash Brothers also offers a snappy and polished feel, giving a super responsive and smooth typing experience that is enhanced by the refined finish of the switch.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Bubblegum switch provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience, the Splash Brothers switch offers a creamy and neutral sound with a mild and polished feel. Both switches can cater to different preferences and typing styles, allowing users to customize their keyboard setup to suit their individual needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, consider the characteristics that matter most to you. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, then the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a creamy sound signature, and a typing feel that is described as both mild and snappy, then the Jwick Splash Brothers switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal preferences and typing needs.
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