Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Bubblegum and Gateron Mountain Top mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch by Gold Grain stands out with its eye-catching colorways and clacky typing experience, ideal for enthusiasts seeking innovation and a satisfying tactile response. On the other hand, Gateron's Mountain Top switch is designed for office use, focusing on providing a quiet yet responsive typing experience suited for professional settings. While the Bubblegum switch is best suited for those who enjoy a more pronounced key feedback, the Mountain Top switch offers a more discreet and subtle typing 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Mountain Top have their own unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted, while the Mountain Top's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both materials absorb sound, but the POM housing may produce a slightly different sound compared to the nylon housing, with the POM possibly offering a more muted tone.
When it comes to the bottom housing of these switches, both the Bubblegum and the Mountain Top utilize nylon material. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. This results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While the characteristics of the nylon material may be similar between the two switches, the overall sound and feel may vary slightly due to other factors such as the design of the housing.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Mountain Top can influence the typing experience in various ways. The top and bottom housings play a role in creating the sound profile of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite any differences in material, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles, thanks to the specific qualities of the housing materials used in their construction.
Weight
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Mountain Top has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches are on the lighter side, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the Mountain Top switch has slightly higher force requirements, making it slightly heavier compared to the Bubblegum switch. Users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Mountain Top switch, while those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Bubblegum switch. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out force between the two switches are minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Although the difference is minimal, the Bubblegum switch offers a slightly longer travel distance than the Mountain Top. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter 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 Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 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
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, delivering a sharp and snappy typing experience that is both crisp and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a more neutral sound signature, providing a moderate actuation force and a sound profile suitable for various use cases, whether at home or in a professional setting. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Bubblegum being more distinct and the Mountain Top being more subtle.
When it comes to feel, both the Bubblegum and the Mountain Top linear switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that enhances the typing experience with a lively feel and rebound. The Mountain Top switch also offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The Bubblegum switch, on the other hand, is known for its bouncy and snappy feel, offering a more dynamic typing experience.
Overall, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch each have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Bubblegum switch excels in providing a clacky and lively typing experience, the Mountain Top switch offers a more neutral and subtle sound profile with an easy-to-press feel. Depending on individual preferences and use cases, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the choice ultimately coming down to personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you are looking for a switch that provides a satisfyingly clacky typing experience and a light bottom out force, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you require a switch that is engineered for quiet and discreet typing in professional settings, with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Gateron Mountain Top switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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