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Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gazzew U4

An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gazzew U4 stand out as unique offerings in the market. The Bubblegum, with its striking colorways and clacky typing experience, appeals to enthusiasts looking for something innovative and exciting, categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy'. On the other hand, the U4 from Gazzew offers a silent tactile experience with a sharp tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation, perfect for those who prefer a more muted and low-pitched sound profile, categorized as 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', and 'Sharp'. 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

62g

Pre-travel

1.80 mm

Pre-travel

N/A

Total travel

3.50 mm

Total travel

3.60 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

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring

Housing materials

The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gazzew U4 both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a pleasing and relatively muted sound, while the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile. In terms of top housing material, the Bubblegum's POM housing may provide a slightly softer and more muted sound compared to the U4's Gazzew blend, but both offer deep and pleasing sound profiles.

When it comes to bottom housing materials, the Bubblegum's nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Similarly, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Despite slight differences in material composition, both housing materials contribute to creating a rounder and duller sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience.

While the top and bottom housings of the Zuoce Bubblegum and Gazzew U4 may differ slightly in material composition, they both ultimately aim to enhance the sound profile of the switches. The bottom housing of each switch will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when the key is released. In the end, both switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.

Weight

The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch with an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Bubblegum switch easier to trigger. When it comes to bottom out force, the Bubblegum switch also requires less force at 45 grams, compared to the U4 switch which needs 62 grams to fully press down. This means that the Bubblegum switch is lighter overall, making it potentially more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the U4 switch provides a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Bubblegum switch being lighter and the U4 switch being heavier.

Travel distance

The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both of these switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Bubblegum switch for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the U4 switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual 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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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

In terms of sound, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each press. This sound profile is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding an extra element of satisfaction to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound, creating a whisper quiet typing experience that is ideal for those who prefer a quieter environment. The U4's sound profile is softer and bass-heavy, offering a more subtle auditory experience compared to the Bubblegum.

When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like sensation that gives the keys a lively and responsive feel. Each keypress results in a rebound effect, enhancing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump that is intense and distinct with every keypress. This sharp feedback adds a level of precision to typing, allowing for a more controlled and tactile experience compared to the bouncy feel of the Bubblegum.

Taking into consideration the sound and feel of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that both switches offer unique and appealing qualities. The Bubblegum provides a clacky sound and bouncy feel, perfect for those seeking a more dynamic and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the U4 offers a muted sound and sharp tactile feedback, ideal for users who prefer a quieter typing experience with precise feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, as both switches offer distinct advantages that cater to different preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Bubblegum if you prefer a light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel. This switch is perfect for those who want a visually striking option and a lively feedback sensation. On the other hand, opt for the U4 if you prefer a medium bottom out force and crave a sharp tactile bump with a plush bottom-out sensation. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a muted, low-pitched sound profile and a sharp tactile feedback intensity. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.

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