Zuoce Bubblegum vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch, with its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, is a great choice for enthusiasts looking to explore the innovative side of mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch boasts a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, making it a perfect blend of sophistication and performance. While both switches fall into the 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky' categories, the Xinhai also offers a 'Creamy' feel. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the HMX Xinhai 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 Xinhai has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a unique sound that is deep and relatively muted, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This allows for a visually pleasing experience when using the Xinhai switch, as the lighting can interact with the clear housing. On the other hand, the Bubblegum's POM top housing may not offer the same level of visual appeal when it comes to customization with lighting effects. However, both switches benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housings to create a rounder and duller sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the HMX Xinhai will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum will provide a unique deep and muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai will deliver a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share the benefits of using nylon in the bottom housing to create a fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the decision will depend on whether you prioritize sound quality, aesthetics, or a balance of both when selecting your ideal switch.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 37 grams and bottom out force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of force required for typing. This means that users will experience a consistent typing experience with either switch, as they will have similar levels of resistance and tactile feedback. The lighter weight of these switches makes them ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to press each key. For those who prefer a heavier push feel, both switches may not provide the desired level of resistance. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bubblegum and Xinhai switches are similar, offering a light and effortless typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the 3.4 mm travel distance of the HMX Xinhai linear switch. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. However, some users may find the Bubblegum switch to be slightly more responsive than the Xinhai due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter 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 HMX Xinhai comes in at $3.50 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
When it comes to sound, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and HMX Xinhai switches are described as "clacky", producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. This characteristic gives users a crisp, bright, and percussive typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is described as "bouncy", providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a similar bouncy feeling along with a "creamy" sensation, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. This could be due to lubricant applied in the switch or the specific materials used, resulting in a silky sensation that allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys.
In conclusion, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and HMX Xinhai switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While both switches share the "clacky" sound profile, the Bubblegum switch stands out with its bouncy feel, whereas the Xinhai switch adds a creamy element to its tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prefer a more lively and bouncy typing experience or a smoother and buttery feel. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a satisfying and innovative typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts looking to explore new horizons in their hobby.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, your choice should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a unique and visually appealing switch that offers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, then the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that combines subtle sophistication with precise performance, the Xinhai switch with its PA12 top housing and POM stem might be more suited to your tastes. Both switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams and produce a clacky sound when pressed, but the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, while the Xinhai switch offers a creamy typing experience in addition to its bouncy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics. Choose wisely to enhance your typing experience and enjoy your mechanical keyboard to the fullest.
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