Zuoce Lavender vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Zero Degree 0° are both excellent options to consider. The Lavender switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch from Gateron offers silent typing with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, promoting unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that reduces noise. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, whether you value ease of pressing or silent typing. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Lavender features a POM top housing, which provides a deep and muted sound, while the Zero Degree 0° utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the auditory experience. On the other hand, the Lavender's POM bottom housing contributes to its pleasing sound profile, offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Zero Degree 0°, which absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer distinct typing experiences based on the qualities brought by their top and bottom housings. The split between the top and bottom housing materials means that the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press will be influenced by the bottom housing material, while the sound when releasing a key will be more impacted by the top housing material. This differentiation allows for a more nuanced typing experience, catering to those who prioritize the tactile and auditory aspects of using mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, the choice between the Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Zero Degree 0° will depend on personal preferences regarding sound profile, typing feel, and visual aesthetics. The POM and polycarbonate housing materials offer contrasting sound profiles, with the POM providing a deeper and more muted sound characteristic of the Lavender, while the polycarbonate offers a sharper and crisper sound associated with the Zero Degree 0°. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Zero Degree 0° absorbs more sound for a rounder typing experience compared to the fuller sound of the Lavender's POM bottom housing. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Lavender also has a heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° bottom out force is unknown. The Lavender switch offers a medium-light feel, suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing, while the Zero Degree 0° offers a lighter actuation force for a smoother keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The Lavender switch is slightly shorter than the Zero Degree 0° switch, but in practical terms, the difference may not be significant. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly quicker response time with the Lavender switch or a slightly deeper keypress with the Zero Degree 0° switch. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, making them suitable for users who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Lavender linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying and distinct tone with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is tailored towards silent typing, boasting a design that absorbs sound and reduces noise for a quieter experience. Depending on personal preference, the Lavender may be more appealing to those who enjoy a sharper and more percussive sound, while the Zero Degree 0° caters to users who prioritize a quieter typing environment.
Moving on to feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch offers an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required for activation. This results in a light and responsive typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, enhancing overall typing comfort. The Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch, though lacking a detailed description in this context, is likely to provide a smooth and stable typing experience due to its innovative design. Both switches are likely to offer a smooth keystroke, but the Lavender may cater more towards those who prefer a lighter and effortless typing feel.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lavender excels in providing a clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press typing experience, while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on delivering a quiet typing environment with a smooth and stable feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience. It is recommended to consider personal preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches to ensure a tailored typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the Lavender if you prioritize smoothness and a crisp, clacky sound signature. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a medium-light typing experience that is effortless and satisfying. On the other hand, opt for the Zero Degree 0° if you value silent typing and innovative design. With a bottom out force of None grams, this switch provides unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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