Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch stand out for their unique characteristics. The Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain is renowned for its eye-catching colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts looking for innovation. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown switches offer a more traditional yet innovative tactile experience with a medium-heavy weight and softer backlight effects. While the Bubblegum switch is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Jupiter Brown switch is labeled as 'Mild', 'Polished', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences. 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
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
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Jupiter Brown both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Bubblegum utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing. The POM material provides a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side, while the polycarbonate material offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials have their own distinct characteristics, they each contribute to creating a different typing experience for users.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Bubblegum and Jupiter Brown feature nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound for both switches. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the overall typing experience between the Bubblegum and Jupiter Brown may still differ based on the combination of top and bottom housing materials used in each switch.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Jupiter Brown directly impact the sound profiles and typing experiences of each switch. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a unique and deep sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Brown offers a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, both switches use nylon bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly. The Bubblegum switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. The weight of a switch is crucial as it can affect typing endurance and the overall typing experience. Those who enjoy longer typing sessions may prefer the lighter Bubblegum switch, while those looking for a more robust feel may opt for the heavier Jupiter Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Bubblegum being on the shallower end and the Jupiter Brown being closer to the standard 4.0 mm. Gamers may prefer the Bubblegum for its shorter travel distance, providing faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Jupiter Brown with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference on the desired level of responsiveness and keypress depth.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch is known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is unknown, leaving it a bit more of a mystery in terms of auditory experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
Moving on to feel, the Bubblegum switch offers a bouncy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that can make typing feel lively and responsive. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch is described as mild, offering a gentler typing feel that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown switch is also noted for its polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel with reduced friction, as well as a stepped tactile feel that provides some pre-travel and post-travel feedback.
Overall, both the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Bubblegum switch leans towards a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Jupiter Brown switch presents a more mild and polished typing experience with stepped tactility. Regardless of the choice between the two, users can expect reliable performance and aesthetic appeal from both switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a light bottom out force, a clacky typing experience, and a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch may be the ideal option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a more traditional tactile typing experience with a polished finish, and features such as a single-stage spring for a classic keystroke feel, the Jupiter Brown switch could be the better choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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