Gazzew Bobagum vs. Kailh Box Mute Jade
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Kailh Box Mute Jade. The Bobagum is a linear switch that redefines smoothness with its unique 'matte' feel, offering an unparalleled tactility that is truly one of a kind. Not only does it provide a smooth typing experience, but it also produces a nearly silent sound profile, making it perfect for those who prefer a more muted and subtle switch. On the other hand, we have the Box Mute Jade, a clicky switch that combines the satisfying crunchiness of a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile. With a slight bump and a quieter yet unmistakable clicky sound signature, this switch is perfect for those who enjoy a clicky switch with a polished feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
75g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the Kailh Box Mute Jade have distinct differences in their housing materials. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, they offer different characteristics.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Mute Jade brings an advantage with its translucency. This makes it ideal for switches that are intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend top housing of the Bobagum does not offer the same visual feature. However, it compensates by delivering a soft and deep sound experience when the key is released.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Conversely, the Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon being a relatively softer material that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing of the Box Mute Jade creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a distinct typing experience.
While the Gazzew Bobagum and Kailh Box Mute Jade have differences in their housing materials, both switches exhibit unique sound profiles. The Bobagum's Gazzew blend contributes to a soft and deep sound when the key is released, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Mute Jade produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. However, both switches have in common the fact that their respective housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The Bobagum has a relatively lighter actuation force of 46 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the Box Mute Jade requires a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Bobagum has a force of 62 grams, while the Box Mute Jade is heavier at 82 grams. This means that the Box Mute Jade requires more force to fully press down on the keys compared to the Bobagum.
If someone prefers a lighter typing experience to facilitate longer periods of typing, the Bobagum would be a suitable choice. Its lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for a smoother and quicker typing process, ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may find the Box Mute Jade more appealing. With its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, typing on the Box Mute Jade provides a satisfying tactile feedback and a more pronounced keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, with the Bobagum leaning towards a lighter feel, while the Box Mute Jade offers a heavier and more definitive typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, the results of using these switches will be similar in terms of the travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $6.50. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Bobagum and Box Mute Jade.
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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a nearly silent experience. These switches have a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch provides a quieter clicky sound. These switches have a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch provides a unique tactile experience. With its almost 'matte' feel, it offers a smoothness that is different from the polished glide of ice-skating or the texture of unlubed switches. The tactility of the Bobagum switch is unparalleled, providing a tactile feedback that is one of a kind. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers an accented feel. It is not hypertactile but still provides a noticeable amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is also worth noting that the Bobagum switch has a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel, while the Box Mute Jade switch is described as stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offer distinct experiences. The Bobagum switch provides a smooth and tactile typing experience with a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade switch offers a quieter clicky sound with an accented tactile feel. If you prefer a muted and smooth switch, the Bobagum switch would be an excellent choice. If you enjoy the crunchier feel and a more subdued clicky sound, the Box Mute Jade switch would be a great option. However, please note that the actual sound and feel of the switches can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and almost silent typing experience, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a unique tactility that is unmatched. The Bobagum switch has a subtle feel with a gentle resistance, making it comfortable for long typing sessions. Additionally, its muted sound profile is perfect for shared spaces, as it minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a more subdued sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch might be your ideal choice. With a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, it offers a pronounced click and a satisfying crunch when pressed. The Box Mute Jade switch provides an accented tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, giving you that perfect balance of feedback. Moreover, its polished finish ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize smoothness, quietness, and a medium typing feel, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is the one for you. However, if you enjoy the crunchiness of a clicky switch with a more subdued sound, and prefer a stiffer and polished typing experience, then the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences and environment before making a choice, as both switches have their own unique advantages. In the end, whichever switch you choose, you can be assured of a high-quality typing experience.
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