Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Cheese mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they each offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Bobagum switch stands out for its smoothness and tactile feel, providing a quiet typing experience with a matte texture that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switch excels in offering a smooth and crisp typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter switch. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
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 the HMX Cheese both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bobagum utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound due to its softness. On the other hand, the Cheese uses a nylon top and bottom housing, a classic switch material that also provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials are softer plastics, the Gazzew blend may offer a slightly different sound profile compared to the nylon due to their specific compositions.
One key similarity between the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Cheese is their utilization of softer housing materials for both the top and bottom. This similarity means that both switches are likely to provide a more cushioned and quieter typing experience compared to switches with harder housing materials. The Gazzew blend and nylon materials, although different in composition, both absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, users can expect a similar overall typing experience in terms of sound with both switches.
Despite their similarities, the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Cheese still have distinct characteristics based on their housing materials. The Gazzew blend may offer a slightly richer and deeper sound profile compared to the nylon used in the Cheese. Additionally, since the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, users may notice differences in the sound and feel when pressing down on the switch compared to when releasing a key. Overall, both switches provide a unique typing experience thanks to their specialized housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, it is evident that the Bobagum requires a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Cheese's 43 grams, making the Bobagum slightly heavier in that aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bobagum requires 62 grams while the Cheese only requires 46 grams, making the Cheese the lighter option overall. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the Bobagum offers a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience will determine which switch is the better fit.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Cheese linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance for faster response times. However, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience may opt for the switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a nearly silent typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter work environment. The sound produced by these switches is described as muted, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch boasts a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, adding a tactile element to the typing experience. The sound produced by the Cheese switches is unique and stands out as being lighter than the majority of switches on the market.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Bobagum is recognized for its unparalleled smoothness and tactile feedback, giving it a distinctive 'matte' feel. These switches offer a gentle resistance, providing a light typing feel without being too featherlight. The subtle tactile sensation of the Bobagum switches makes them suitable for shared spaces where loud typing may be a concern. As for the HMX Cheese switches, their feel is currently unknown, but given the description of being ultra-light and offering a pristine typing experience, they are likely to provide a smooth and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Bobagum prioritizes a silent sound profile and a smooth, tactile feel, the Cheese switch focuses on delivering a distinct clacky sound signature and an ultra-light typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, given their unique characteristics, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, consider the bottom out force and sound signature that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a nearly silent sound profile with a unique tactile experience, the Bobagum may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, the Cheese switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the smoothness and quietness of the Bobagum or the lightness and distinctive sound of the Cheese.
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