Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Bobagum offers a smooth and almost 'matte' feel, providing unparalleled tactility and a nearly silent sound profile, making it perfect for those who prefer a more muted and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g delivers a clacky sound profile and a heavier actuation force, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright and creamy typing experience. 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
56g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 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 Cloud - 63.5g both feature proprietary plastic blends in their housing materials, with the Bobagum using a Gazzew blend and the Cloud - 63.5g using nylon. While both materials are described as soft and capable of delivering a rich and deep sound profile, the specific properties of each material contribute to slight differences in the typing experience. The Bobagum's Gazzew blend is noted for its softness and ability to create a unique sound profile, while the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon housing is praised for its ability to absorb sound and create a fuller typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Bobagum's Gazzew blend and the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon housing are designed to impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The softness of these materials allows for a smoother keystroke and contributes to a more muted and round sound profile. However, the specific properties of each material may result in subtle differences in the overall typing experience. While both materials aim to provide a deep and rich sound profile, the Gazzew blend may offer a slightly softer feel compared to the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon housing.
Overall, while the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g utilize different housing materials, they both aim to deliver a high-quality typing experience with rich sound profiles. The softness of the materials used in both switches allows for a smoother keystroke and a fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer the unique sound profile of the Gazzew blend or the fuller sound of the nylon housing in the Cloud - 63.5g, both switches offer a premium typing experience that will satisfy even the most discerning keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, which has an actuation force of 56 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bobagum requires 62 grams while the Cloud - 63.5g needs 63.5 grams, making the Cloud - 63.5g slightly heavier. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy category, providing a balance between effortless typing and a more substantial typing experience. The actuation force determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press all the way down. Those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Bobagum, while individuals seeking a bit more resistance may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g for a heavier typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Therefore, the Bobagum has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Cloud - 63.5g. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. However, those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g 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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a muted experience, producing a softer and quieter sound that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, catering to those who enjoy a bright and crisp typing experience. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound.
When it comes to feel, the Bobagum switch delivers a smooth and almost 'matte' tactile experience, redefining smoothness with a unique tactility that sets it apart. The Cloud - 63.5g switch, on the other hand, provides a bouncy and creamy typing sensation that offers a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience in terms of feel, with the Bobagum focusing on smoothness and tactility, while the Cloud - 63.5g prioritizes bounce and creaminess.
Considering all the available information, the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Bobagum provides a muted sound with a smooth and unique tactile feel, while the Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound and bouncy, creamy typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a quieter, smoother typing experience or a brighter, bouncier one, both switches excel in their respective qualities. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your preferred sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and almost silent typing experience with medium bottom out force, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a heavier switch with a bright and clacky sound profile, along with a bouncy and creamy feel, then the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing force. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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