Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX Cloud - 50g

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Cloud - 50g present unique options for enthusiasts looking for a linear typing experience. The Bobagum switches are celebrated for their distinctive 'matte' feel, striking a perfect balance between smoothness and grip, which makes for satisfying keystrokes that create a nearly silent sound profile—ideal for quiet environments. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 50g offers a clacky sound profile and a lighter actuation force, appealing to users who appreciate a more vibrant and auditory typing experience while still delivering a silky smooth feel. While the Bobagum prioritizes a muted, subtle atmosphere suited for focused work environments, the HMX Cloud - 50g brings a lively charm that can energize the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your personal preference and typing style.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Cloud - 50g, both switches employ soft plastics to enhance the acoustic qualities of typing. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top and bottom housings, often referred to as "boba plastic," which effectively provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Similarly, the Cloud - 50g utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is recognized as a classic switch material that also results in a deeper and fuller sound experience. Although the specific compositions differ, the emphasis on softer plastics in both switches means that they are likely to deliver comparable auditory results, favoring a smoother typing experience with notable sound absorption.

In examining the nuances between the two, the proprietary Gazzew blend of the Bobagum may offer distinct tonal qualities due to its unique formulation, which is tailored for a rich audio experience. Meanwhile, the nylon used in the HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its established performance in enhancing sound, providing a duller and rounder auditory profile that many users find appealing. This difference suggests that while both switches aim for a similar outcome in terms of sound, their compositions might impart slightly varied characteristics during typing. The impact of these materials can influence the overall feel of the keys, particularly when considering the bottom-out feedback and the sound produced while releasing a key.

Ultimately, both the Bobagum and the Cloud - 50g can be expected to achieve satisfying results in terms of sound dampening and typing acoustics, thanks to their reliance on soft housing materials. Users may find the Bobagum’s proprietary Gazzew blend to create a unique flavor in the sound profile, while the nylon utilized in the Cloud - 50g represents a tried-and-true option familiar to many keyboard enthusiasts. When pressed, the feel and sound of the switches will largely reflect their bottom housing characteristics, while the top housing will contribute to the experience of releasing a key. In essence, for individuals pursuing similar auditory outcomes, either switch could serve as a viable choice, contingent upon personal preference for the subtleties in sound and feel that each material brings to the table.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Bobagum, with a bottom out force of 55 grams, is characterized as medium-light; however, its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 50g boasts a lower actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This means that the Cloud - 50g is the lighter option in terms of actuation force. The differences in these forces can significantly impact typing experience: users who prefer a lighter touch for extended use might find the HMX Cloud - 50g more appealing due to its lower actuation force. Meanwhile, the Bobagum's higher bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who enjoy a firmer push. Ultimately, if a preference leans towards either lighter or heavier forces, the choice between these two switches would hinge on the individual's typing style and the desired feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch, a distinct difference emerges. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cloud - 50g has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that pressing the Bobagum switch will result in a more responsive and quicker feel due to the shorter distance, which is generally preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. Conversely, the Cloud - 50g’s longer travel distance offers a more robust keypress experience, which some users might find more comfortable and satisfying. Ultimately, those who favor quickness may opt for the Bobagum, while those who appreciate a deeper keypress may choose the Cloud - 50g.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum switches are characterized by a muted profile, making them an excellent choice for environments where noise reduction is a priority. With a softer sound that minimizes the typical clatter associated with mechanical keyboards, these switches allow for quiet typing sessions without drawing attention. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is known for its clacky sound profile, appealing to those who relish a more vibrant auditory experience. The contrast between the subdued tones of the Bobagum and the lively sounds of the Cloud - 50g highlights their suitability for different types of users, with the former offering discretion and the latter delivering an engaging soundscape during typing.

In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch excels with a particularly smooth and subtly resistant action, providing a unique typing experience that balances comfort and responsiveness. The matte texture of the switch allows for a tactile sensation that feels refined and enjoyable, while its gentle resistance suits prolonged use without sacrificing speed. Conversely, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch also offers a silky smooth feel, although details about its specific tactile feedback are less well-defined. Both switches, in their own right, are designed to deliver a pleasant typing experience, but the Bobagum’s nuanced resistance may be preferable for those who seek a more delicate touch.

In summary, the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Cloud - 50g linear switches cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Bobagum presents a muted sound profile and a nuanced feel, ideal for users prioritizing a quieter and more subtle experience. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 50g satisfies those who appreciate a lively, clacky sound while still providing a smooth typing action. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you lean towards a more muted atmosphere or a brighter sound experience, with both options delivering impressive qualities suitable for different typing styles.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you value a moderately lightweight feel with a unique, smooth texture and nearly silent operation, the Bobagum is an excellent choice. This switch is perfect if you work or game in shared spaces where noise can be a concern, as its subtle resistance and muted sound profile create a pleasant typing experience without disturbing others. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a clacky sound profile that adds a bit of character to your typing, the HMX Cloud - 50g will be more to your liking. This switch caters to those who appreciate a bright sound and silky smooth feel, making it ideal for an enthusiast looking for an engaging audio and tactile experience. Ultimately, selecting either switch comes down to whether you prioritize a quiet, smooth feel or a lively, engaging sound with a lighter actuation force.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more