Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch, a linear switch, and the Kailh Sage switch, a clicky switch, offer contrasting typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain is known for its captivating blend of two eye-catching colorways and delivers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a prime choice for those looking to explore the innovative frontier of their hobby. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness. While the Bubblegum switch is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Sage switch is categorized as 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Crunchy'. Each switch has its unique characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences. 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
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Kailh Sage switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Sage's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound profile compared to the softer POM material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, offering an aesthetic advantage over the opaque POM material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Bubblegum and the Sage switches utilize nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other harder plastics. The absorption properties of nylon result in a duller and rounder sound, contributing to the overall typing experience on these switches. Despite utilizing the same material for the bottom housing, the differentiation in top housing materials ensures that each switch offers a unique sound profile when pressed. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing impact the typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Kailh Sage switches share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, their contrasting top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum offers a more subdued sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Sage produces a sharper and crisper sound. The choice of housing materials not only affects the sound but also contributes to the overall typing experience and aesthetic appeal of the switches. Whether a user prefers a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, more resonant sound, both switches provide unique options based on their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is 37 grams, whereas it is unclear for the Kailh Sage clicky switch. However, the bottom out force for the Bubblegum is 45 grams, while it is 70 grams for the Sage, making the Sage the heavier of the two switches. The lighter actuation force of the Bubblegum makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Sage provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to varying preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on individual typing style and preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Sage switch slightly longer in terms of travel distance compared to the Bubblegum switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm may not be noticeable to some users, but those looking for a slightly deeper key press may prefer the Sage switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired feel when typing or gaming.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
When it comes to sound, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch provides a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of crunchy autumn leaves. Both switches have their own unique auditory characteristics, appealing to different preferences in keyboard sound profiles.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation with lively keys that offer rebound when pressed. In contrast, the Kailh Sage switch is characterized as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force for a snappy and reactive feel. It also boasts a sharp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keypress. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, catering to users who prefer either a bouncy and lively feel or a firm and tactile typing sensation.
Ultimately, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch provide distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a clacky and bouncy typing experience or a crunchy and invigorating one, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a light and clacky typing experience, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch would be a great choice. It offers a satisfyingly snappy sound and a bouncy feel, perfect for those who enjoy a lively and responsive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier and crunchier typing experience with a sharp tactile feedback, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is the way to go. The Sage switch provides a distinct clickiness and an invigorating feel, making each key press feel immersive and satisfying. Ultimately, your choice between the Bubblegum and Sage switches will depend on your preference for light versus heavy bottom out force, as well as your desired sound and feel while typing.
Mentioned in this article
