Gazzew Bobagum vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Zuoce Bubblegum. The Bobagum is known for its smoothness and unique tactility, providing a typing experience unlike any other with its almost 'matte' feel and silent sound profile. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switch from Gold Grain stands out for its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience, making it a top choice for enthusiasts looking to explore new innovations in their hobby. While the Bobagum leans towards a more muted and subtle typing experience, the Bubblegum offers a clacky and bouncy feel. 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM+SL
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and Zuoce Bubblegum switches both offer unique sound profiles, but with distinct characteristics. The Gazzew Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing provide a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, which contributes to a pleasing typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a unique sound that is deeper and more muted compared to the Bobagum. This difference in sound profile can appeal to different preferences for keyboard users.
In terms of durability and material composition, the Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend housing may offer a softer and more tactile typing experience due to its plastic blend, known as "boba plastic." This could result in a more comfortable typing feel for some users. Conversely, the Zuoce Bubblegum's nylon bottom housing is a classic switch housing material known for its sound-absorbing properties, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in housing material could impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, appealing to users with different preferences.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gazzew Bobagum and Zuoce Bubblegum switches, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and typing experience. Both switches offer a rich and deep sound profile, albeit with varying levels of muted tones. Additionally, the softness of the Gazzew blend top and bottom housing in the Bobagum, as well as the sound-absorbing properties of the nylon housing in the Bubblegum, contribute to a comfortable typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch are quite different, with the Bubblegum being lighter overall. The Bobagum has a medium actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Bubblegum has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Bubblegum, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Bobagum. Overall, both switches offer a unique typing feel based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The Bobagum is the longer option between the two, offering a bit more depth when pressed down on a key. However, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the Bobagum and Bubblegum switches will depend on personal preference for the slight variation in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Bubblegum has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bubblegum for $2.30.
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 it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a muted experience, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, perfect for those looking for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch is more on the clacky side, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a level of crispness and brightness to your typing. Depending on personal preference, the Bobagum will lean towards a subdued and understated sound profile, while the Bubblegum will deliver a more lively and percussive typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gazzew Bobagum switch is characterized by a subtle sensation, offering a gentle resistance that is not overly light but still maintains a smooth and light typing feel. The sound signature of this switch is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces where noise levels need to be considered. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch provides a bouncy feel, giving a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that adds a lively touch to your typing experience. The keys have a vibrant rebound when pressed, making each keystroke feel more dynamic.
In conclusion, if you prioritize a quiet and understated typing experience with a smooth and gentle feel, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you enjoy a more clacky sound profile with a bouncy and vibrant typing feel, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch would be the perfect fit. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you will get distinct results depending on your personal taste and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, almost 'matte' feel with a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel to the keys, the Bubblegum switch is the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
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