Bsun Avocado vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the BSUN Avocado, a tactile switch, and the Zuoce Bubblegum, a linear switch. The BSUN Avocado switches are praised for their refreshing tactile experience, featuring a snappy and responsive bump followed by a smooth downstroke. They offer satisfying feedback without being overwhelming and have a mild, neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switches from Gold Grain are known for their striking colorways and provide a clacky typing experience that is bouncy and satisfying. While the Avocado switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Bubblegum switch is labeled as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM+SL
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and Zuoce Bubblegum switches showcase distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Avocado's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness that enhances resonance. In contrast, the Bubblegum's POM top housing delivers a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique auditory experience. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and deeper sound, the differences in their top housing materials create a noticeable contrast in sound quality.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the Avocado and Bubblegum switches share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. This classic switch housing material enhances the sound profile by absorbing more sound and creating a duller tone, ultimately contributing to a deeper and fuller typing experience for both switches. However, the distinct qualities of the polycarbonate and POM top housings of the Avocado and Bubblegum switches, respectively, create a noticeable divergence in sound characteristics, with the Avocado offering a sharper and more resonant sound compared to the Bubblegum's deeper and muted sound.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to recognize that the qualities of the top and bottom housings play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a more prominent effect on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the selection of housing materials for switches, such as the polycarbonate and POM top housings of the Avocado and Bubblegum switches, respectively, can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, it is evident that the Avocado is heavier than the Bubblegum. The Avocado has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is light in comparison. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Bubblegum switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Avocado switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience - whether one prefers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or a heavier push for a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the Avocado offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, the Bubblegum provides a slightly deeper key press. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances commonly preferred by gamers for faster reactions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either a quicker, more responsive key press or a deeper, more substantial feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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.
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 Bsun Avocado switch offers a mild and neutral sound signature, creating a quiet and unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is best known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. Depending on your preference, the Avocado will give you a quieter typing experience, while the Bubblegum will provide a more audible and percussive sound with each keypress.
Moving on to feel, the Avocado switch is characterized by its accentuated tactile feedback, offering a satisfying and moderate level of tactility without being overwhelming. This switch provides an invigorating and sharp feel, making each keypress feel distinct and reactive. Additionally, the Avocado is known for its snappy response, creating a lively and engaging typing sensation. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switch provides a bouncy feel, giving you a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a dynamic and lively touch to your typing experience.
Considering all available information, if you prefer a tactile switch with pronounced feedback and a buttery downstroke, the Bsun Avocado switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you're looking for a linear switch with a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch offers a unique and captivating typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on your personal typing style and sound preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a satisfyingly pronounced tactility, the BSUN Avocado switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch might be more up your alley. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and typing style. Happy typing!