Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red. The Zuoce Bubblegum switch, a linear switch from Gold Grain, stands out with its vibrant colorways and clacky typing experience, appealing to enthusiasts looking for a unique touch to their keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red offers a budget-friendly option with a smooth typing experience, medium-light actuation force, and enhanced RGB lighting effects. While the Bubblegum switch is known for its bouncy feel, the G Pro Red switch is praised for its creamy and polished keystrokes. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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 Red, we can see some key differences between the two. The Bubblegum utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly affect the overall typing experience for users, with the POM housing providing a more subtle and pleasing sound, while the polycarbonate housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material in the G Pro 3.0 Red allows for RGB lighting customization, which can be a visually appealing feature for many users.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, both the Bubblegum and the G Pro 3.0 Red feature nylon bottom housings that elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics. This similarity between the two switches indicates that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound on the bottom-out and key release, as both housings absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. While the difference in top housing materials may affect the sound on key release, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile when pressing down on the keys for both switches.
Overall, the choice between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profiles and aesthetic features. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum provides a unique and pleasing sound experience, while the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a sharper and more resonant sound. However, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer a softer, muted sound or a clearer, crisper sound, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to an overall enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch both fall on the lighter side of the spectrum, with the Bubblegum being slightly lighter overall. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. For those who prefer a more delicate typing experience, the Bubblegum may be the preferred choice, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. Meanwhile, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a bit more resistance, which can provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a firmer push. Both switches cater to different preferences, so depending on whether you prefer a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience, you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
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 Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Bubblegum switch offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red switch. Gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness may prefer the Bubblegum switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback in their key presses may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer different travel distances catering to different preferences, so it comes down to individual preference on which one to choose for a customized typing or gaming experience.
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 Red 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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the Bubblegum switch is characterized by a clacky sound, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement. The Bubblegum switch will provide a more distinctive and energetic auditory experience, while the G Pro Red switch offers a versatile sound suitable for various preferences and environments.
Moving on to the feel, the Bubblegum switch offers a bouncy typing experience, giving a spring-like feedback and lively feel to each keystroke. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation. The Bubblegum switch will deliver a more dynamic and responsive feel, ideal for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro Red switch provides a gentle and polished typing feel, allowing for effortless key presses with reduced friction.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky and bouncy typing experience, the Bubblegum switch may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a creamy, polished typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles in the mechanical keyboard enthusiast community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch with a light bottom out force and a clacky typing experience, the Bubblegum switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with enhanced RGB lighting effects, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to try them out and see which one feels best for you.
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