Zuoce Bubblegum vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the PH Studio Yoel offer unique typing experiences worth exploring. The Bubblegum, a linear switch from Gold Grain, stands out with its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky feel, appealing to enthusiasts looking for an innovative typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel, a linear switch from BSUN, boasts a chewy typing sensation that envelops fingertips with each press, accompanied by a bright and clacky sound profile. While both switches fall under the 'clacky' category, the Bubblegum is also described as 'bouncy', while the Yoel offers a variety of additional qualities such as 'creamy', 'high-pitched', 'marbly', 'polished', 'silky', and 'resonant'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and PH Studio Yoel both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum uses a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Yoel features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the opaque POM housing of the Bubblegum offers a more understated look. Both materials have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and appearance.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Bubblegum utilizes nylon, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Yoel incorporates a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side. While both materials have their own strengths in sound production, the nylon bottom housing of the Bubblegum may offer a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Yoel. Despite these differences, both switches use their respective materials to enhance the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and PH Studio Yoel will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The POM and polycarbonate top housings each offer a distinct sound experience, with the POM being deeper and the polycarbonate sharper. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings provide unique qualities to the switches, with the nylon creating a fuller sound and the POM offering a muted depth. Whether you prefer a more muted sound with a classic look or a sharper, crisper sound with RGB lighting compatibility, both switches have something to offer for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer different experiences for users. The Bubblegum switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Yoel switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. While both switches offer unique benefits, those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Bubblegum switch, while those seeking a more robust typing experience may gravitate towards the Yoel switch.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers may prefer the Yoel switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Bubblegum switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference 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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and PH Studio Yoel switches are described as clacky, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. However, the Yoel switch also features a high-pitched and marbly sound profile, adding a layer of resonance that enhances the overall typing experience. While the Bubblegum switch offers a satisfyingly clacky sound, the Yoel switch goes a step further with a pronounced and bright tone that resonates with each key press.
When it comes to feel, the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that adds a lively touch to typing. On the other hand, the Yoel switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the Yoel switch is polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing feel. The silky sensation of the Yoel switch enhances the overall smoothness of keystrokes, providing a luxurious typing experience.
Overall, while both the Zuoce Bubblegum and PH Studio Yoel switches offer a clacky sound profile, the Yoel switch stands out with its high-pitched and marbly sound characteristics that add depth to each key press. In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch provides a bouncy feedback, while the Yoel switch offers a creamy and polished typing experience that is silky smooth. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and enjoy a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, then the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and appreciate a bright and clacky sound profile with a creamy, polished, or silky typing feel, then the Yoel switch from BSUN could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider these factors carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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