Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Bubblegum switch by Gold Grain stands out for its captivating colorways and clacky typing experience, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts seeking a satisfying tactile response. On the other hand, Gateron's Zero Degree 0° switch sets itself apart with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing a smooth, stable, and quiet typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, showcasing the diversity of options available in the mechanical keyboard market. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both use different materials for their top and bottom housing, with the Bubblegum featuring a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Zero Degree 0° utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Bubblegum creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, giving it a unique visual appeal.
Both the Bubblegum and the Zero Degree 0° share a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality. However, the different top housing materials of POM and polycarbonate on the Bubblegum and the Zero Degree 0° respectively provide distinct sound characteristics, with the Bubblegum offering a more muted sound compared to the crisper sound of the Zero Degree 0°.
When considering the overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials play a significant role in the sound and feel of the switches. The differences in material between the POM top housing and nylon bottom housing of the Bubblegum, and the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing of the Zero Degree 0°, contribute to unique sound profiles for each switch. While both switches may share a nylon bottom housing, the distinct characteristics of their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound quality and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Bubblegum is lighter in both aspects. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. This means that the Bubblegum switch would provide a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Bubblegum for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of the Zero Degree 0° for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Bubblegum has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Zero Degree 0° which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times, the slight variance in distance may result in a slightly different tactile feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference – whether you prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Bubblegum for a quicker response or the slightly longer travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° for a more deliberate keystroke.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its silent typing capabilities, thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure that absorb sound and reduce noise. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is subjective and can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Bubblegum switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation when typing. This gives the keys a lively feel and offers a rebound effect when pressed. In contrast, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not specified, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Overall, both the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Bubblegum switch excels in delivering a clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Zero Degree 0° switch stands out for its silent typing capabilities and smooth, stable typing feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or other factors, both switches have their own strengths that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a personal keyboard setup will provide the best insight into which one aligns with your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Bubblegum if you are drawn to its light 45-gram bottom out force, captivating colorways, and satisfyingly clacky typing experience. It is a great option for enthusiasts looking to explore innovative switch designs. On the other hand, opt for the Zero Degree 0° if you prefer a switch with an innovative self-padding design, dual-rail structure, unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for typing experience, aesthetics, and noise level. Remember to consider these factors carefully before making your decision.
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