Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch stands out with its captivating colorways and clacky typing experience, making it a favorite among enthusiasts looking for something different. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly option known for its smoothness, low "thocky" sound, and versatility in gaming and typing. While the Bubblegum switch is bouncy and clacky, the Milky Yellow Pro is buttery, textured, and low-pitched. Both switches have their strengths and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing components. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is relatively more muted. However, while both switches share the same material for their housing, the specific design and construction of each switch may still cause slight differences in sound and feel.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the additional POM top housing of the Zuoce Bubblegum. POM housings are known to create a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side. This material also contributes to a more pleasing sound, differentiating the Bubblegum from the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) in terms of acoustic quality. However, both switches still share the nylon bottom housing component, which continues to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of nylon material.
Ultimately, while the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ slightly in their housing materials with the addition of POM in the former, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The use of nylon for the majority of their housing components ensures a deeper and fuller sound that is both pleasant and unique, creating a satisfying typing experience for users. Therefore, whether opting for the Bubblegum with its POM top housing or the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its all-nylon construction, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and overall performance.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear 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, more effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The Bubblegum switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Milky Yellow Pro, which is medium in force. For those who enjoy typing for longer periods without fatigue, the Bubblegum switch would be the better choice, while those looking for a more substantial and tactile typing experience may prefer the Milky Yellow Pro switch. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing experience and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is clear that the Bubblegum has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Bubblegum may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 typing experience, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch provides a low-pitched, bassy "thocky" sound that is deep and satisfying. While the Bubblegum switch lends itself to a more crisp and bright auditory feedback, the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile, giving users a different tactile experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer a clacky or a thocky sound will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its buttery and textured keystroke experience, offering a smooth and friction-free typing sensation. The difference in feel between these switches lies in the bouncy elasticity of the Bubblegum switch and the seamless fluidity of the Milky Yellow Pro switch. Again, the preferable feel will vary depending on individual preference and typing style.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles for keyboard enthusiasts to choose from. The Bubblegum switch excels in providing a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feedback sensation, while the Milky Yellow Pro switch delivers a low-pitched, buttery keystroke with a smooth and textured feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal taste when selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup. Whether you go for the Bubblegum or the Milky Yellow Pro, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with each.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a lighter switch with a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the Bubblegum switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound, along with a buttery and textured feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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