Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Durock Lupine both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain stands out with its vibrant colorways and clacky typing experience, making it a great choice for enthusiasts looking for an innovative switch. On the other hand, the Lupine switches provide a smooth and consistent typing feel with a classic clacky sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a more traditional switch. 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
62g
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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Durock Lupine both use different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Bubblegum featuring a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Lupine has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lupine is more translucent, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This adds a visually appealing element to the switch that may be lacking in the Bubblegum with its opaque POM top housing. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile compared to the softer and more absorbent nylon bottom housing that is shared between the two switches.
When it comes to the overall sound and feel of the switches, the nylon bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether POM or polycarbonate, influences the sound when the key is released. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Bubblegum and the Lupine offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch present notable differences in weight. The Bubblegum has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Lupine offers a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, but the actuation force is unknown. This difference in weight makes the Bubblegum switch lighter overall compared to the Lupine switch. For users who enjoy a lighter touch, the Bubblegum switch would be the preferred choice, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Lupine switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feedback and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bubblegum. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers seeking faster response times. Gamers who prefer a more abrupt keypress may lean towards the Bubblegum with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Lupine with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on 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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine 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
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile and bouncy feel, providing a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts looking for a lively and responsive switch. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a more neutral sound with high-pitched characteristics and a mild, polished feel. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Bubblegum being more dynamic in sound and feel, while the Lupine focuses on a smoother and more refined typing experience. Choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a clacky and bouncy typing experience or a neutral, high-pitched sound with a polished feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality performance and can deliver similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a lighter 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 bottom out force with a more neutral sound profile and a polished typing feel, the Lupine switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what type of typing experience you seek and what features are most important to you. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on your individual preferences.
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