Gazzew Bobagum vs. Keygeek Briny

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a significant role, and two standout options are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Keygeek Briny, both linear switches offering unique typing experiences. The Bobagum is renowned for its exceptional smoothness and an almost 'matte' feel, striking a perfect balance between glide and texture, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize a quiet and subtle typing experience. In contrast, the Keygeek Briny, constructed with a UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, brings forth a balanced sound profile, catering to those who appreciate a bit more auditory feedback without straying too far from the linear category. Each switch has features that cater to different user preferences, whether it be the muted elegance of the Bobagum or the balanced acoustics of the Briny. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

Keygeek Briny Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gazzew Bobagum and the Keygeek Briny utilize different proprietary materials for their housing, which influence their overall sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Bobagum features a distinctive Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housing, often described as "boba plastic." This material is known for its softness, which contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, allowing for a unique auditory response when keys are pressed. In contrast, the Briny employs classic nylon for both its top and bottom housing. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, leading to a fuller and more rounded auditory experience. While both switch types aim to provide a richer sound, the materials differ in their properties, showcasing how variations in housing textures can yield contrasting outcomes in acoustic performance.

Despite the differences in material composition, the acoustic characteristics of the Gazzew blend and nylon share commonalities that allow for a degree of similarity in performance. Both the Gazzew blend and nylon are softer plastics that serve to dampen the sound created during key presses, thereby contributing to the deep profiles of both switches. The influence of the Gazzew blend and nylon's sound-absorbing nature means that users can expect a muted bottom-out sound when either type of switch is engaged. However, while the Bobagum’s unique plastic blend might create a more pronounced sound profile due to its proprietary formulation, the Briny's nylon still maintains a classic tactile experience that many users appreciate.

In terms of the overall experience when typing, the impact of housing materials is also nuanced by their interaction within the switch assembly. Given that both the Bobagum and Briny utilize softer materials for their top and bottom housings, users can expect a pleasant tactile feedback and sound response on pressing. The bottom housing heavily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing significantly affects the auditory response during a key release. Thus, when comparing the two, the Gazzew Bobagum may offer a distinctly different auditory experience thanks to its proprietary blend, although both switch types ultimately strive for a similar aim: to provide a satisfying and rich typing experience characterized by deep and muted sounds.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Keygeek Briny linear switch, we find distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bobagum features an unknown actuation force but has a bottom out force of 55 grams, classified as medium-light. In contrast, the Briny has a defined actuation force of 50 grams and a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. This means that the Bobagum, while lighter in terms of bottom out, does not provide a specified actuation force for direct comparison, leaving an unclear picture of its overall typing experience. However, with a bottom out force of 60 grams, the Briny is clearly the heavier switch, offering a stronger push feel that may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Bobagum’s lighter bottom out force suggests that it could be more comfortable for extended typing sessions, especially in a work environment or during long gaming marathons, assuming its actuation force aligns with that comfort. Overall, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for weight and tactile feedback during use.

Travel distance

Both the Gazzew Bobagum and the Keygeek Briny linear switches have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they will provide a similar tactile experience when pressing down on a key. This equal travel distance means that users can expect a consistent key press feel from both switches, making them a comparable choice for those who prioritize uniformity in travel distance. Since both switches have the same measurement, there is no shorter or longer option between them, ensuring that users can enjoy similar results regardless of the switch they choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the sound profile of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch, it stands out for its muted characteristics, offering a soft and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. This makes it an excellent choice for environments where noise reduction is a priority, as it minimizes the typical clacking sounds associated with keyboard use. On the other hand, while the sound profile of the Keygeek Briny switch is described as balanced, there are no specific sound descriptors provided for it. It’s important to note that various factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap selection can influence sound, but the Briny does not seem to dramatically deviate from the norm.

In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch is highlighted for its subtle resistance, providing a gentle touch that is neither too light nor overly firm. This makes it suitable for long typing sessions, as it prevents finger fatigue while maintaining a certain degree of tactile feedback. The sound signature also adds to its appeal in shared spaces with minimal resonance. Unfortunately, the Keygeek Briny switch lacks specific descriptors regarding its feel, leaving potential users without a clear comparison. The feel can greatly influence typing preference, so this absence could be a decisive factor for some enthusiasts looking for the ideal switch.

In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch excels in both sound and feel with its muted profile and subtle resistance, catering to those who prioritize a quiet typing experience in shared environments. In contrast, the Keygeek Briny switch, while it may offer a balanced sound, lacks detailed descriptions in both sound and feel, making it harder to gauge its overall typing experience. Ultimately, if you opt for the Bobagum, you can expect a consistently smooth, quiet, and comfortable typing experience, while the Briny may require further investigation or personal testing to fully understand its qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum and the Keygeek Briny switches largely hinges on your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a smooth, muted typing experience and often work in shared spaces, the Bobagum's medium-light force of 55 grams, combined with its almost velvety feel, makes it an excellent option. Its near-silent operation and subtle resistance level create an enjoyable typing experience that minimizes distractions for both you and those around you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer touch with a bottom-out force of 60 grams and value a balanced sound profile, the Briny could be your go-to choice. Its UPE stem and PA66 housing provide durability and a distinctive typing experience, perfect for those who appreciate a little more feedback from their switches. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing style and the acoustic environment you will be in—allowing you to enjoy the best of what both switches have to offer.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more