Zuoce Bubblegum vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the SP-Star Yanyu both offer unique advantages for different types of users. The Bubblegum, a linear switch from Gold Grain, is perfect for those seeking a clacky and bouncy typing experience. This switch is ideal for keyboard enthusiasts looking to delve into innovative design and enjoy a satisfyingly tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Yanyu linear switch is known for its delicate typing experience, making it a great choice for those who type for long periods of time. With a material blend that creates a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, feathery, subtle, and polished. 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
43g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the SP-Star Yanyu, both switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles. The Bubblegum utilizes POM for its top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound, while the Yanyu combines Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for a slightly brighter tone. In contrast, the Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing produces a fuller and deeper sound due to its softer material, while the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE yields a pleasant and slightly brighter sound profile.
Despite their differences, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and the SP-Star Yanyu feature top and bottom housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing material, whether nylon or a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE, significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material has a more pronounced effect on the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Bubblegum's sound profile leans towards the deeper end with its POM top housing, the Yanyu offers a slightly brighter tone with its unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the SP-Star Yanyu both showcase how different housing materials can influence the sound and feel of a switch. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a distinct deep and muted sound, while its nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller tone. On the other hand, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE results in a brighter sound profile overall. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials, demonstrating how variations in housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, we find that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The actuation force of the Bubblegum is 37 grams, while the Yanyu's actuation force is unknown. However, the Bubblegum has a bottom out force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the Yanyu's 43 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Bubblegum may be the better choice. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Yanyu, despite its slightly lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch. The Bubblegum offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Yanyu provides a more substantial key press feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, compared to the more traditional 4.0mm length, making them suitable for users looking for fast and precise key presses. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal 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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 is known for its clacky nature, offering a sharp and percussive sound that is satisfying to many enthusiasts. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch presents a more neutral sound profile, with a hint of thockiness that provides a deep and rich tone. While the Bubblegum switch caters to those who enjoy a crisp and bright sound, the Yanyu switch offers a more versatile option suitable for a wider range of users. Ultimately, the sound of each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a lively and elastic feedback that enhances the typing experience. Conversely, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a mild and approachable typing feel, with characteristics that fall into a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Yanyu switch boasts a feathery lightness that reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches provide a smooth and polished finish, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum and SP-Star Yanyu switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Bubblegum switch excels in delivering a clacky sound and bouncy feel, appealing to those seeking a more tactile and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a more subtle sound profile and a feathery typing feel, making it suitable for users looking for a gentle and comfortable typing experience. Whether you choose the Bubblegum or Yanyu switch, you can expect high-quality performance and a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a striking visual appeal and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain would be an ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, especially for long typing sessions, the Yanyu switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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