Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch, a linear switch, and the Jerrzi Violet switch, a tactile switch, offer distinct typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain boasts a clacky and bouncy feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Violet switch is known for its smooth actuation and pleasant poppy tactility, providing a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Jerrzi Violet both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Violet's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate is more commonly used for clear housings, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer and sound-absorbing properties.
While the top housings of the two switches differ in material and sound profile, their nylon bottom housings share similar qualities. Nylon is known for creating a deep and full sound when typing, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile that is consistent across both the Bubblegum and the Violet. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the switches will likely offer a similar typing experience due to the shared properties of their nylon bottom housings.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes clear that each material plays a crucial role. The qualities of the bottom housing material are more pronounced when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. With the Bubblegum and the Violet featuring different top and bottom housing materials, users can expect a unique typing experience that is influenced by the specific properties of each material.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch have differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Bubblegum has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Violet's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Bubblegum requires a force of 45 grams, while the Violet's bottom out force is unknown. Weight is an important factor to consider, as lighter switches can allow for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions, while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing experience. Overall, for those who prefer a lighter touch, the Bubblegum may be the preferred choice, while those looking for a stronger push feel may lean towards the Violet, even though its bottom out force is unknown.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Violet switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bubblegum switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Bubblegum switch a good choice for gaming. However, some people may find the longer travel distance of the Violet switch to provide a more satisfying typing experience with a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the Bubblegum and Violet switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 when pressed. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a variety of environments without being too loud or too quiet. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences in terms of auditory feedback during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bubblegum switch is characterized by a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that gives a lively feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the Violet switch is described as stepped, offering a tactile sensation that feels like it has two stages, providing a more controlled typing experience compared to the lively bounce of the Bubblegum switch. Depending on personal preference, users may lean towards either the bouncy feel of the Bubblegum or the stepped feel of the Violet for their typing needs.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bubblegum switch provides a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, appealing to those who enjoy a sharp sound and a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet switch offers a neutral sound and a stepped feel, catering to users who prefer a more controlled and moderate typing sensation. Ultimately, whether you choose the Bubblegum or Violet switch, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a light and clacky typing experience with a satisfyingly bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactile switch with a smooth actuation and a neutral sound signature, the Violet switch is a great option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.