Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver switch are both linear switches, offering a smooth keystroke experience without any tactile bump or audible click. The Bubblegum switch stands out with its vibrant colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a great choice for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a bit of flair in their setup. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu is known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it a popular choice among gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness in their keystrokes. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and Outemu Yellow Silver both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience depending on personal preference. Additionally, the Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing and the Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its softer properties that absorb more sound.
While the Bubblegum and Yellow Silver both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in top housing materials creates distinct sound profiles for each switch. The Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing paired with the POM top housing gives it a unique sound that is deeper and more muted, while the Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing combined with the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. This highlights how the combination of different housing materials can greatly impact the overall typing experience, catering to varying preferences in sound and feel.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of the top and bottom housings of a switch play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials, whether it be POM, polycarbonate, or nylon, can greatly influence the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch. Ultimately, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and Outemu Yellow Silver offer unique housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and feel, providing a diverse range of options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Bubblegum switch requires 45 grams, while the Yellow Silver switch needs 55 grams, making it moderately heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Bubblegum switch would be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch offers a slightly more substantial feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Yellow Silver switch is longer than the Bubblegum switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Yellow Silver switch falls within the more traditional range, offering a slightly deeper key press compared to the Bubblegum's 3.5mm travel distance, which is slightly shorter. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Bubblegum switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Yellow Silver switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, offering a satisfying auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced typists and gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness. The sound of both switches will also be influenced by the keyboard they are installed on and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation. This tactile experience gives the keys a lively feel and a sense of rebound when pressed, adding an element of fun to typing. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is unknown at this time, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offers a clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts looking for a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch boasts a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, but information on its tactile feel is currently unavailable. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Bubblegum switch offering a unique auditory experience and the Yellow Silver switch catering to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, users can expect different but equally enjoyable results from these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a light bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a light actuation force, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch may be more suitable for your gaming or typing needs. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience, sound profile, and actuation force. Choose the switch that best aligns with your specific needs and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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