Gazzew Bobagum vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique experiences are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron CJ. The Bobagum switches are known for their redefine smoothness with a distinct 'matte' feel that falls between the polished glide of ice-skating and the texture of unlubed switches. This unparalleled tactility sets them apart, and they offer a nearly silent sound profile, making them perfect for those who prefer a muted and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the CJ switches provide a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. They offer higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel when typing. Categorized as chirpy, neutral, mild, low-pitched, and thocky, these switches are ideal for users who enjoy a slightly more pronounced and satisfying sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron CJ switches have notable differences in their housing materials. Firstly, the top housing of the Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend, which is also known as "boba plastic." This blend imparts a softness to the switch, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the CJ switch utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its top housing. This blend produces a higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky, yet not overly sharp. Therefore, while the Bobagum offers a softer and deeper sound, the CJ provides a thinner and slightly higher-pitched sound.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Bobagum and the CJ switches differ in their materials. The Bobagum utilizes the same Gazzew blend found in its top housing for the bottom housing as well. As a result, this blend contributes to a soft and rich sound profile throughout the entire switch. On the other hand, the CJ switch incorporates a POM bottom housing. POM housings generate a unique and pleasing sound that is comparatively deeper and more muted. Consequently, the Bobagum delivers a consistent soft and deep sound, whereas the CJ produces a slightly deeper and more subdued sound due to its POM bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are distributed differently in switches where the top and bottom housings are not the same. When pressing down on either the Bobagum or CJ switch, the sensation and sound experienced will be influenced by the characteristics of the respective bottom housing. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. When releasing a key, however, the top housing comes into play and has a greater impact on the resulting sound. Therefore, while the Bobagum may offer a softer and deeper bottom-out sound, the CJ may provide a slightly different sound profile upon releasing a key due to its top housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Bobagum requires a force of 46 grams, while the CJ requires a slightly higher force of 50 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force range, ensuring a satisfying keystroke without being too light or too heavy.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Bobagum has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, compared to the CJ's 60 grams. This indicates that the Bobagum switch provides a slightly firmer and more substantial typing experience when fully depressed.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to allow for more prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. In this case, the Gazzew Bobagum, with its slightly lighter actuation force, would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, those who desire a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier force. In this scenario, the Gateron CJ, with its slightly higher actuation force, would be a suitable choice.
In summary, while the Gazzew Bobagum and Gateron CJ linear switches exhibit some differences in actuation and bottom out forces, they both fall within the medium force range. This means that users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for either a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gazzew Bobagum has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron CJ. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered to be the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For those seeking a more responsive typing experience, the Gazzew Bobagum would be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt, and for them, the Gateron CJ's longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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 subjective qualities of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Bobagum switches are known for their almost "matte" feel, offering an unparalleled tactility. They produce a nearly silent sound profile, ensuring a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the CJ switches present a unique and enjoyable sound profile, characterized by higher-pitched clacks. They also provide an impossibly smooth push feel.
The Bobagum switches have a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the CJ switches have a chirpy acoustic signature, which sets them apart from other switches. They also have a neutral sound profile, a low-pitched tone, and can produce a thocky sound when pressed. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the chosen keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Bobagum switches offer a subtle switch experience. They have a gentle resistance and a light typing feel, making them suitable for shared spaces. Conversely, the CJ switches provide a mild typing experience. They offer a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, ensuring an approachable typing experience for most users.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switches and Gateron CJ linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Bobagum switches provide an unparalleled tactility and produce a nearly silent sound profile, while the CJ switches offer a unique sound profile with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. For those looking for a muted and subtle typing experience, the Bobagum switches are a great choice. For those seeking a chirpy and mild typing experience, the CJ switches are a suitable option. However, if a specific quality is desired and not mentioned in the description, similar results can be expected from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preference and the specific characteristics you prioritize.
If you're looking for a switch with unparalleled tactility and a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum switches are a great choice. With their smooth and matte feel, they offer a unique typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a more muted sound, the Bobagum switches are designed to minimize the clackiness typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a unique acoustic signature and a smooth push feel, the CJ switches might be more suited to your preferences. These switches produce higher-pitched clacks and offer an impossibly smooth typing experience. With their chirpy sound profile, they stand out from other switches on the market.
In terms of feel, the Bobagum switches are described as subtle, providing a gentle resistance and a light typing feel. This makes them suitable for shared spaces where you want to minimize noise. Alternatively, the CJ switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. They strike a safe middle-ground with their characteristics, appealing to both beginners and advanced users.
Ultimately, whether you prioritize smoothness, silence, unique acoustics, or a gentle typing experience, both the Bobagum and CJ switches have their own merits. Consider your preferences and needs to determine which switch will enhance your typing experience the most.
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