Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Zuoce Bubblegum and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches offer unique characteristics to consider. The Bubblegum switch, a linear switch from Gold Grain, stands out with its captivating colorways and clacky typing experience, appealing to enthusiasts looking for something different. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a smooth and tactile bump along with a neutral sound signature, making it a comfortable and easy-to-press option. While both switches have their own strengths and appeal, it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile differ in their top housing materials, with the Bubblegum featuring a POM top housing and the WS Light Tactile utilizing a polycarbonate top housing. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Light Tactile produces a sharper and crisper sound. The choice between these two materials will depend on the desired sound profile, with POM offering a more subdued tone and polycarbonate providing a more vibrant and clear sound.
On the other hand, both the Bubblegum and the WS Light Tactile share a nylon bottom housing material, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite having different top housing materials, the similarities in their nylon bottom housings will result in a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing on either switch. This shared housing material ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the two switches.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as sound on bottom-out and overall feel, are more prominent when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. As such, the choice between POM and polycarbonate top housings, as well as the shared nylon bottom housing, will impact the overall sound and typing feel of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches in unique ways.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required for typing. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the WS Light Tactile switch's 45 grams. Similarly, the Bubblegum switch also has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the WS Light Tactile switch requires 50 grams to bottom out. Both switches provide a light and effortless typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of the desired actuation and bottom out forces for a more comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Bubblegum being on the shorter side and the WS Light Tactile being slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Bubblegum with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the WS Light Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for the amount of key travel that feels most comfortable and natural.
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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 switch is known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, giving off a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. When it comes to feel, the Bubblegum switch provides a bouncy sensation, offering a spring-like feedback and a lively feel with rebound when pressed. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch is characterized by its stepped feel, giving a two-stage tactile feedback that is more mild compared to hyper-tactile switches, along with being easy-to-press with minimal force required for activation.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer different experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Bubblegum switch provides a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, catering to those who enjoy a more lively and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound and a stepped, easy-to-press feel, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing preferences. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose between the sharp and clacky Bubblegum switch or the smooth and easy-to-press WS Light Tactile switch for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a keyboard switch with a lighter bottom out force and a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, a snappy tactile bump, and a neutral sound signature, the WS Light Tactile switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and actuation force. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your typing style the best.
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