HMX Game1989 vs. Gazzew Bobagum
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Gazzew Bobagum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between options that are both unique and appealing in their own right. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep and thocky sound profile, which is a hallmark of the HMX Film switch series, making it an ideal choice for gamers and typists seeking tactile feedback and an immersive audio experience. In contrast, the Gazzew Bobagum switches offer a distinctly smooth typing experience, characterized by a matte feel that strikes a balance between being unpolished and overly slick, resulting in a unique tactile sensation that many users love. Additionally, the Bobagum switches are noted for their muted, subtle sound, making them particularly suitable for quieter environments or for those who dislike loud keystrokes. While the HMX 1989 provides an engaging auditory feedback ideal for gaming, the Gazzew Bobagum caters to those who prioritize a serene typing experience without sacrificing smoothness. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and Gazzew Bobagum both incorporate unique housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. The HMX 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing designed to produce a sharper and crisper sound, attributed to the stiffness of the polycarbonate. This transparency not only enhances the aesthetic appeal by allowing RGB lighting to shine through but also contributes to the pronounced sound characteristics that typists might favor for a more energetic and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew Bobagum employs a proprietary "boba plastic" blend for its top housing, emphasizing a softer touch that contributes to a richer and deeper sound profile. While the contrasting materials—polycarbonate versus the Gazzew blend—highlight their divergent sound profiles, both switches strive to provide appealing auditory feedback.
In contrast to their top housings, both the HMX 1989 and Gazzew Bobagum utilize softer materials for their bottom housings. The HMX 1989's nylon bottom housing is traditionally known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a duller and fuller tone that typists may find satisfying. Similarly, the Bobagum's Gazzew blend bottom housing maintains this softer characteristic, reinforcing a deep sound profile. The use of nylon in the 1989 and the "boba plastic" in the Bobagum both suggest an emphasis on rich acoustic experiences, making the bottom-out sound rounder and more pleasant. Therefore, both switches can provide a satisfying and appealing keystroke feedback, albeit achieved through different material compositions.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials between the HMX 1989 and the Gazzew Bobagum highlight how housing materials affect the overall typing experience. While the polycarbonate top housing of the 1989 brings a distinct sharpness and clarity, the Bobagum’s softer blend fosters a more subdued and rounded auditory reaction. However, since both switches utilize softer materials for the bottom housing, they can achieve similar pleasant sounds upon bottoming out, thereby bridging the gap between their varied top housing experiences. This combination of acoustic and tactile qualities results in each switch offering a unique yet sometimes comparable typing sensation that caters to diverse preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch present a nuanced comparison in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a medium-light option that facilitates longer typing sessions without excessive fatigue. In contrast, the Bobagum lacks a specified actuation force, but its bottom out force is slightly higher at 55 grams compared to the 1989's 53 grams. This suggests that while both switches provide a medium-light typing experience, the Bobagum may feel marginally heavier at the end of the key press. Users seeking a lighter switch would prefer the HMX 1989, as the Bobagum's undefined actuation force could imply a heavier pressing feel, despite its bottom out force being relatively similar. Overall, those who prefer a lighter touch for extended use might lean towards the HMX 1989, while users looking for a more substantial typing experience might find the Bobagum's characteristics appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch, there's a notable difference: the HMX 1989 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew Bobagum measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Bobagum the shorter switch, offering a more responsive feel that is often preferred by gamers looking for quicker activation times. In contrast, the HMX 1989, with its longer travel distance, provides a more substantial depth that some users may prefer for a richer typing experience. Thus, your choice between these two switches should depend on whether you favor quicker responsiveness or the assurance of a deeper keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Game1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Game1989 for $3.29.
The Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50 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 comparing the sound profiles of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch, the characteristics of each differentiate them significantly. The 1989 is known for its deeper and thockier sound signature, which adds a satisfying auditory element often sought after by those who enjoy a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Bobagum offers a muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter keystrokes. This makes the Bobagum particularly suitable for environments where noise is a concern, allowing users to type without the typical clack or thock of traditional mechanical switches.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 is often considered to embody a smooth typing experience, although specific descriptions of its tactile qualities are less detailed. On the other hand, the Bobagum is defined by a unique 'matte' sensation that provides a subtly plush experience, striking a balance between offering light resistance and avoiding any overly feathered touch. This makes the Bobagum feel smooth yet substantial, allowing for a comfortable typing experience without the harshness that can come from unlubed options. The Bobagum’s sound also aligns with its feel, as it’s designed to be non-resonant, enhancing its suitability for shared spaces.
Overall, while both the HMX 1989 and Gazzew Bobagum linear switches offer smooth experiences, their sound profiles and tactile sensations cater to different preferences and environments. The 1989 excels in producing a rich auditory feedback with a deeper tone, ideal for personal setups where that sound is appreciated. Meanwhile, the Bobagum stands out for its muted sound and unique feel, making it an excellent choice for quieter environments. If you prioritize a comprehensive typing experience, either switch can deliver quality performance, but your selection will ultimately depend on whether you prefer auditory feedback or a more discreet typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you value a deeper, thockier sound profile and a slightly lighter feel while expressing a more tactile experience, the HMX 1989 would be a great fit for you. Its 53g bottom-out force offers a nice balance for gaming and typing alike, making it ideal for those who appreciate notable feedback and don't mind a bit of noise. On the other hand, if you're seeking an exceptionally smooth and muted typing experience, the Gazzew Bobagum is likely the better choice. With a 55g bottom-out force that provides a consistent touch and a nearly silent sound profile, it's perfect for quieter environments or shared workspaces, where minimizing disruption is important. Overall, both switches cater to slightly different needs, so consider how you prioritize sound, feel, and usage to make the most suitable decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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