Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Gazzew Bobagum
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gazzew Bobagum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Everglide Aqua King and the Gazzew Bobagum. The Aqua King is renowned for its frictionless feel, providing a typing experience that feels like gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. Its categorized qualities of being subdued, creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished make it a top choice for those seeking a smooth and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Bobagum switches offer a unique almost 'matte' feel, striking a balance between the polished glide of ice-skating and the texture of unlubed switches. Known for their unparalleled tactility, these bubblegum-colored switches provide a muted and subtle sound profile during typing. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King and the Gazzew Bobagum differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Aqua King features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. Its translucency also allows for RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing for those who prioritize aesthetics. On the other hand, the Bobagum utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often called "boba plastic." This unique blend, characterized by its softness, contributes to a rich and deep sound profile that adds a touch of depth and warmth to the typing experience.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Aqua King and Bobagum differ, impacting the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing complements its top housing, providing a similarly clear and resonant sound profile. This material's stiffer nature influences the bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing the crispness and responsiveness when pressing down on the keys. Conversely, the Bobagum employs its own proprietary Gazzew blend for the bottom housing. While not explicitly described, we can infer that this blend supports a softer and more cushioned bottom-out experience, allowing for a different tactile feedback compared to the Aqua King.
In terms of the sound produced when releasing a key, the top housing of both the Aqua King and Bobagum plays a significant role. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua King enhances the typing experience with its sharp and clear sound when keys are released, adding to the overall auditory feedback. Similarly, the Bobagum's Gazzew blend top housing likely contributes to a distinct sound when keys are let go. Although the exact qualities are not outlined, we can assume that the softness of the proprietary blend may give rise to a smoother and less pronounced auditory response, potentially delivering a more mellow and gentle sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch, it is evident that both switches have identical actuation forces and bottom out forces. With an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, both switches fall within the medium range. This means that users can expect a consistent and balanced typing experience with either switch. However, it is worth noting that both switches have different characteristics, with the Aqua King being known for its smooth and fluid keystrokes, while the Bobagum offers a slightly firmer and more tactile feel. Ultimately, when considering weight, individuals with a preference for a lighter typing experience may find both switches suitable for prolonged use, while those seeking a stronger push feel may also be satisfied with both switches. Thus, both the Aqua King and the Bobagum provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch differ by 0.4 mm. The Aqua King has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Aqua King falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance, while the Bobagum is slightly shallower. Shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Bobagum may be more suitable for you. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a switch with a deeper feel, the Aqua King with its longer travel distance would be the better option for you. Both switches offer unique qualities, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
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 qualities of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch, the Aqua King is best described as having a subdued sound. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature when compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Bobagum is described as having a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. Both switches provide a quieter typing experience, creating a more pleasant environment for shared spaces.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aqua King is known for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished qualities. These descriptions highlight the smooth and buttery typing experience that can be expected. The Aqua King offers minimal resistance or friction, allowing for effortless keystrokes. Similarly, the Bobagum switch is described as having a subtle and gentle resistance, which maintains a light typing feel. Though not explicitly mentioned, the Bobagum also provides a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and comfortable typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
Considering all the available information, the Aqua King linear switch and the Bobagum linear switch have their unique qualities. The Aqua King provides a frictionless and gliding sensation, resembling the experience of ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. Meanwhile, the Bobagum offers an almost 'matte' feel, delivering unparalleled tactility without the polished glide of ice-skating. Both switches offer a nearly silent sound profile, making them suitable for quiet environments. While the precise details of their sounds and feels may differ, users can expect similar results in terms of smoothness, quietness, and an enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences and the specific qualities desired in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. Both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which provides a medium typing experience.
The Aqua King switch is best known for its frictionless feel, offering a typing experience reminiscent of gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. The Bobagum switch, on the other hand, redefines smoothness with its almost 'matte' feel, providing unparalleled tactility.
When it comes to sound, the Aqua King switch offers a subdued sound, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Bobagum switch offers a muted sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, the Aqua King switch offers a range of descriptors including creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished. These switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Bobagum switch, in contrast, is described as subtle, providing a gentle resistance and a sound signature suitable for shared spaces.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a frictionless and polished typing experience with a more subdued sound, the Aqua King may be the right choice for you. However, if you prioritize an unparalleled tactility with a muted sound and a more subtle typing feel, the Bobagum switch may be the better option. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision.
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