Zuoce Bubblegum vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and KTT Strawberry are two options that stand out for different reasons. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain offers a unique and clacky typing experience, perfect for enthusiasts looking for something a bit different. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry is known for its smooth actuation and comfortable feel, making it a reliable choice for everyday use. Both switches have their own set of qualities that make them appealing, such as the bubblegum's bounciness and the strawberry's buttery smoothness. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Strawberry both feature different housing materials that significantly impact the sound profile of the switches. The Bubblegum utilizes a POM top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound, while the Strawberry uses a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the use of POM results in a more opaque appearance, while polycarbonate offers a translucent quality that is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to varying preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Bubblegum features a nylon housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Strawberry incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. While both materials are known for their impact on the sound of the switch, they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the bottom housing adds an aesthetic appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting effects.
Overall, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Strawberry ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The split between the top and bottom housing materials on a switch allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Bubblegum or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Strawberry, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch are different in terms of weight. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a more gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry switch has a heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Bubblegum switch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those seeking a more robust typing experience may lean towards the Strawberry switch. Overall, the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Bubblegum switch compared to the heavier forces of the Strawberry switch result in different typing sensations depending on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Strawberry linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bubblegum switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Strawberry switch might provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the Bubblegum switch offering a quicker response and the Strawberry switch providing a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preference for travel distance.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 produces a sharp and snappy clacky sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Bubblegum being more lively and the Strawberry being smoother in its sound profile. Depending on personal preference, one may prefer the satisfying clack of the Bubblegum or the soothing low-pitched sound of the Strawberry.
When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation with lively key presses and rebound. In comparison, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is known for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimized resistance and friction. Both switches excel in different aspects of tactile feedback, with the Bubblegum focusing on a more dynamic and springy feel, while the Strawberry emphasizes a smooth and refined typing experience. Whether you prefer a bouncy and lively feel or a silky and frictionless touch, both switches offer unique sensations that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bubblegum excels in providing a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a more energetic typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry stands out for its low-pitched sound and frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, catering to users who prefer a smoother and refined typing sensation. While the two switches offer different subjective qualities, both deliver exceptional performance and innovation in the world of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Strawberry will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you seek, but rest assured that both switches will provide a satisfying and high-quality performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you're looking for a light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and value a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Strawberry switch could be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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