Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Jwick Taro offer unique experiences for users to consider. The Bubblegum, a linear switch from Gold Grain, stands out with its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a top choice for enthusiasts looking for innovation. On the other hand, the Taro, a tactile switch, provides a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks, perfect for those seeking a comfortable yet responsive 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
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Jwick Taro both feature unique housing materials that significantly impact the sound profile of the switches. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deep and muted sound, while the Taro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Despite the differences in sound profile, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the choice between POM and polycarbonate depending on personal preference for sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Bubblegum and Taro utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deep and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. With both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, providing a consistent feel across the board.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Zuoce Bubblegum and Jwick Taro contribute to distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Bubblegum offers a more muted and deeper sound with its POM top housing, the Taro provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches share the use of nylon bottom housing, ensuring a deep and fuller sound profile that is consistent between the two. Ultimately, the choice between the Bubblegum and Taro will come down to individual preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Taro has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams while the Bubblegum has a bottom out force of 45 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Bubblegum switch may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the Taro switch may be favored by those who like a more substantial push feel. In terms of weight, the Bubblegum switch is lighter overall, making it ideal for longer typing sessions and gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. The Taro switch, on the other hand, offers a medium-heavy feel that some users may find more satisfying for a tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the Bubblegum switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a potentially better option for those seeking a quick and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro switch provides a bit more depth, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance 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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 sharp and snappy clack when pressed, providing a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences - whether you prefer a lively and clacky typing experience or a more subdued and moderate sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy sensation, giving users a spring-like feedback that adds to the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Taro switch is described as buttery and stepped, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke with a mild tactile sensation that includes pre-travel and/or post-travel stages. Each switch provides a unique feel that caters to different preferences - whether you enjoy a lively and bouncy typing sensation or a smooth and uniform keystroke.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bubblegum switch provides a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, while the Taro switch offers a neutral sound profile with a buttery and stepped tactile sensation. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. If you enjoy one, you may find similar satisfaction with the other based on their comparable levels of innovation and quality.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound. If you enjoy a light bottom out force and a clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a buttery, stepped tactile feel, the Taro switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which switch aligns best with your typing style and personal preferences. Happy typing!
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