Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX Caramel Pudding
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Caramel Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Caramel Pudding comes down to personal preference and typing experience. The Bobagum switches offer a unique tactile sensation characterized by their 'matte' feel, providing a smooth, yet subdued typing experience that nearly eliminates noise, making them an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter workspace or enjoy a more muted auditory profile. In contrast, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches are known for their resonant, clacky sound signature, delivering an exquisitely smooth type feel that can enhance the joy of typing while bringing a satisfying auditory feedback to each keystroke. While the Bobagum focuses on subtlety and silence, the Caramel Pudding emphasizes a more dynamic and engaging experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Caramel Pudding switches are both designed to enhance the typing experience through their unique housing materials. The Gazzew Bobagum utilizes a proprietary blend referred to as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings. This specific blend is noted for its softness, which contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the HMX Caramel Pudding features nylon for both its top and bottom housings. While nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material, it shares some similar characteristics with "boba plastic," as it is also relatively soft and thus capable of absorbing sound effectively. This comparison indicates that both materials aim to achieve a fuller sound when typing, albeit through different compositions.
Despite the differences in material composition, the resulting auditory experience from both types of switches may ultimately have more in common than their construction would suggest. Both the boba plastic of the Bobagum and the nylon used in the Caramel Pudding facilitate softer, more muted sound profiles. While "boba plastic" may be unique to the Gazzew line, it shares key characteristics with nylon's sound absorption properties, resulting in a typing experience that emphasizes warmth and depth. Therefore, users may find similar satisfaction in the auditory results of both switch types, as they prioritize enriching the sound produced during keystrokes.
However, the impact of each housing material also varies depending on its positioning within the switch design. The bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing predominantly affects the sound released upon key release. In the case of the Bobagum, the nuances of its proprietary blend might create a somewhat different feel at the bottom-out compared to the nylon of the Caramel Pudding. Nonetheless, both switches ultimately strive for a satisfying typing experience, through what may be perceived as a rich sound, while diverging slightly in their foundational components. Consequently, enthusiasts may note subtle differences in key feel and sound, yet an appreciation for a rich auditory experience can resonate across both options.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bobagum switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, but its actuation force is unspecified, making it challenging to determine how it feels upon initial keystroke. On the other hand, the Caramel Pudding comes with a clearly defined actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. This means the Caramel Pudding requires less force to actuate, making it the lighter option between the two, which can be advantageous for those looking for less strain during extended typing or gaming sessions. In terms of bottoming out, the Bobagum slightly exceeds the Caramel Pudding with its 55 grams compared to the latter’s 52 grams, thus providing a heavier feel when pressed fully down. Overall, if you're seeking a lighter feel for prolonged use, the Caramel Pudding would be more suitable, while the Bobagum may appeal to those who prefer a heavier tactile experience at the bottom out.
Travel distance
Both the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in a comparable experience when pressing down on a key. This identical travel distance means that users will likely achieve similar results in terms of key feel and actuation when using either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, neither can be categorized as shorter or longer; instead, they provide a consistent and uniform typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Caramel Pudding has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Caramel Pudding for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is characterized by its muted quality, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. This subdued sound minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more discreet auditory environment. In contrast, while specific details about the Caramel Pudding switch's sound profile are currently unknown, it is commonly recognized for its resonant, clacky signature. This suggests a more pronounced auditory experience that contrasts sharply with the quiet nature of the Bobagum, offering an engaging and lively sound for those who enjoy audible feedback while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Bobagum offers a unique typing sensation that is subtly smooth. It features gentle resistance, which strikes a balance that is light yet more substantial than a super feather-light feel. This nuanced experience ensures that typists can enjoy prolonged sessions without the fatigue that might come from overly stiff or excessively light switches. In comparison, while specifics regarding the feel of the Caramel Pudding are not detailed, it is acknowledged for its exquisitely smooth typing action. Therefore, both switches provide a high-quality smoothness, catering to different preferences for tactile feedback without any significant roughness in either option.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches appeal to distinct audiences with their respective sound and feel characteristics. The Bobagum excels in providing a virtually silent typing experience with a subtle yet smooth tactile feedback, making it ideal for shared environments. Conversely, the Caramel Pudding offers a lively and clacky sound signature alongside a notably smooth feel, perfect for those who relish auditory feedback with their keystrokes. Ultimately, if you prefer a tranquil typing atmosphere, the Bobagum is the way to go, while the Caramel Pudding is suited for those who thrive on auditory engagement during their typing sessions.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using them. If you prioritize a nearly silent experience with a unique matte feel, the Bobagum switches might be the right fit for you, especially if you plan on using your keyboard in shared spaces or during quiet hours. Their subtle resistance and muted sound make them perfect for those who appreciate a smooth, almost tactile typing experience without the noise. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a more resonant and clacky sound, the Caramel Pudding switches will appeal to you. With their exquisite smoothness and a light bottom-out force, they offer a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance your typing experience, especially in a personal or less noise-sensitive environment. Ultimately, consider your typical usage scenarios and sound preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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