Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, you'll find yourself faced with two unique options for your mechanical keyboard. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain offers a clacky and bouncy typing experience, perfect for enthusiasts looking to explore new frontiers in their hobby. On the other hand, the G Pro Brown switch from Gateron provides a smooth and subtle tactile sensation, complete with a frosted light diffuser to enhance your RGB lighting. While the Bubblegum switch may appeal to those seeking a more playful and engaging typing experience, the G Pro Brown switch offers a gentler touch and a more visually immersive experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, it is evident that they both have unique characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound with higher pitch. Despite their differences, both materials offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The translucency of polycarbonate in the G Pro 3.0 Brown's top housing also allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, which can be a determining factor for some users.
On the other hand, both the Bubblegum and the G Pro 3.0 Brown feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. While the bottom housing material may have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, the top housing material plays a crucial role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite the similarities in their bottom housing material, the overall sound experience may vary due to the differences in their top housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and aesthetics. The unique qualities of POM and polycarbonate top housings offer distinct sound experiences, catering to those who prefer deeper and muted tones versus sharper and crisper sounds. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings in both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who enjoy a rounder sound profile. Whether opting for the Bubblegum's more muted sound or the G Pro 3.0 Brown's sharper tones, users can expect a quality typing experience from either switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Bubblegum switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it well-suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. While the Bubblegum switch is ideal for users who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions due to its lighter force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch would be preferred by those looking for a more pronounced and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing force and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Bubblegum switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer deeper keypresses. Both switches offer different tactile feedback and actuation points, so ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Brown 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 Brown 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, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch offers a clacky experience that produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, creating a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch provides a medium-high pitch sound that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback without overpowering your typing flow, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Bubblegum being more defined and the G Pro Brown offering a subtle yet satisfying sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively and rebounding feel when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is characterized as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. Additionally, the G Pro Brown switch is described as providing a mild typing experience with a stepped tactile feel, allowing for a comfortable and low-impact typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations that cater to different preferences, with the Bubblegum providing a bouncier feel and the G Pro Brown offering a more easy-to-press and mild typing experience.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch provides a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, while the G Pro Brown switch offers a medium-high pitch sound with an easy-to-press and mild tactile feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique qualities. Whether you choose the Bubblegum for its defined clacky sound and bouncy feel or the G Pro Brown for its subtle yet satisfying sound and easy-to-press tactile feel, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you are looking for a light and clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel and a sharp, snappy sound, the Bubblegum switch may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a gentle bump for tactile feedback, along with a mild, easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is a great option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.