Bsun Avocado vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Avocado and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer unique experiences for users. The Avocado is praised for its tactile feedback, featuring a snappy bump and buttery downstroke that create a satisfying typing sensation without being overwhelming. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron is celebrated for its innovative design that prioritizes silent typing, with a smooth and stable feel that absorbs sound for a quieter experience. While the Avocado is accentuated, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, the Zero Degree 0° falls into a different category altogether. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches are quite similar in terms of the top housing being made of polycarbonate. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, making both the Avocado and Zero Degree 0° ideal choices for those looking to add some colorful flair to their setup.
However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Bsun Avocado features a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° also has a nylon bottom housing. This material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches that use nylon. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. So, while both switches share the same top housing material, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of the overall sound and feel they offer to users.
Ultimately, the difference in housing materials between the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° affects the overall typing experience for users. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material impacts the sound when releasing a key. Despite their similarities in using polycarbonate for the top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets these switches apart in terms of the sound profile they produce. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound with nylon, both the Avocado and Zero Degree 0° offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a medium-heavy actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a tactile typing experience with a significant push feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch also has an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Avocado switch heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch. When considering weight, the Avocado switch may be preferred for those looking for a more substantial typing experience, while the Zero Degree 0° switch might be favored by those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Zero Degree 0° has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Avocado. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quick response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing feel between the two switches. For those who prefer a slightly deeper keystroke, the Avocado with its shorter travel distance may feel more suitable, while the Zero Degree 0° could be preferred by those who like a bit more key travel before actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and response time.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 Avocado and Zero Degree 0° switches offer distinct characteristics. The Avocado switch produces a mild and neutral sound signature, creating a quiet typing experience that focuses on the tactile feedback it provides. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch is designed to absorb sound and reduce noise, offering a silent typing experience with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. Depending on your preference for sound during typing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Avocado switch is praised for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The switch offers a snappy and responsive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation that keeps users engaged. In comparison, the feel of the Zero Degree 0° switch is not explicitly described in the provided information, but it is known for its unparalleled smoothness and stability. This suggests that the Zero Degree 0° switch may offer a silky and consistent typing experience, but detailed information about its tactile feel is limited.
Overall, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Avocado switch stands out for its pronounced tactile feedback and mild sound signature, appealing to users who prioritize tactile sensation during typing. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch prioritizes a silent typing experience with its innovative design, focusing on smoothness and stability. Depending on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or noise reduction in your typing experience, both switches offer reliable performance and can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, opt for the Avocado switch. Its pronounced tactility and smooth downstroke provide an invigorating typing sensation without overwhelming feedback. On the other hand, if you value smoothness, stability, and a noise-reducing design, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch is the way to go. With its innovative self-padding and dual-rail structure, this switch offers unparalleled smoothness and a soft, elastic feel for a silent typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing feel. Make your selection based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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