Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Bubblegum switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Bubblegum switch, with its striking colorways and clacky typing experience, is an excellent choice for those seeking a visually captivating and satisfyingly bouncy switch. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch from Gateron appeals to users looking for a more substantial typing feel, with its heavier actuation and bottom-out force providing a medium-heavy sensation. While both switches share a 'clacky' characteristic, the G Pro 3.0 Black also offers a 'creamy', 'subdued', 'silky', and 'subtle' 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black both utilize POM material for their top housing, creating a unique and pleasing sound profile. However, the Bubblegum offers a deeper and more muted sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black's higher-pitched and clacky sound. This difference in sound profiles can influence the typing experience for users who prefer a quieter or more pronounced sound when using their keyboard.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Bubblegum features a nylon material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic texture. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a POM bottom housing, offering a similar deep and muted sound profile as the Bubblegum's top housing. This difference in bottom housing materials may affect the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with the nylon bottom housing potentially providing a more rounded and dull sound compared to the POM bottom housing.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offer slightly different sound profiles due to their choice of materials. The Bubblegum's combination of POM and nylon housing creates a unique and pleasing sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Black's use of proprietary INK blend and POM results in a higher-pitched and clacky sound. Ultimately, users can choose between these two switches based on their preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Those who enjoy a stronger push when typing or gaming may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Black switch over the Bubblegum switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bubblegum switch offers a quicker, more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a slightly deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, giving a more satisfying feel for those who prefer a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of desired key press feel and responsiveness.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches offer a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the G Pro 3.0 Black also provides a more subdued sound option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like sensation with lively keys that give a rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offers a creamy and silky typing experience, with smooth and buttery key presses that feel effortless and satisfying. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch also provides a subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces where a quieter typing experience is desired.
In conclusion, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience. While the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy feel and clacky sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a creamy and silky typing experience with the option for a more subdued sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider the bottom out force that best suits your typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and a clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum with its 45g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more medium-heavy feel with a creamy and silky typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black with its 70g bottom out force and balanced medium-heavy feel may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of sound and feel you desire in your mechanical keyboard switches. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing habits for an optimal typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
