Gazzew Bobagum vs. Outemu Crystal
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Crystal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Crystal. While both switches fall into the linear category, they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Bobagum switches are renowned for their unbeatable smoothness, providing a unique tactile experience that can be likened to a matte surface. With their bubblegum color and near-silent sound profile, these switches offer a muted and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal switches deliver a typing experience that is characterized by their elastic feel and medium-light weight. This combination results in a linear typing sensation that is both unique and satisfying. Additionally, the Crystals produce a neutral sound profile while typing, thanks to their chirpy, high-pitched, and polished design. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Crystal differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Crystal utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference arises from polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, giving it a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal allows for RGB lighting to be effectively displayed. Despite these variations, both switches provide unique sound experiences.
Similarly, the Bobagum and the Crystal showcase discrepancies in their bottom housing materials. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, also referred to as "boba plastic," contributes to a rich and deep sound profile as a result of its softness. On the other hand, the Crystal incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound. Moreover, the transparency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that utilize RGB lighting. These differences demonstrate how the choice of bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Bobagum and the Crystal, it becomes evident that the qualities brought forth by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on either switch will allow you to experience the characteristics of the bottom housing, which influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key is influenced by the top housing. While the Bobagum's Gazzew blend and the Crystal's polycarbonate differ in their materials, they both demonstrate the importance of considering the impact of both top and bottom housing in achieving the desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams, slightly higher than the Crystal's 45 grams. However, the Bobagum has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, compared to the Crystal's 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category for actuation force, but the Bobagum leans towards the heavier side for bottom out force, while the Crystal is on the lighter side.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to allow for longer periods of typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. In this case, the Crystal switch with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces may be a better choice. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, the Bobagum switch's higher bottom out force would provide a more satisfying keystroke sensation.
In summary, the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Crystal linear switches differ slightly. The Bobagum has a slightly higher actuation force and a significantly heavier bottom out force, while the Crystal is lighter in both categories. Depending on personal preference, users can select the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch is 4 mm. In terms of their travel distances, the Bobagum offers a slightly shorter distance compared to the Crystal switch. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while the Bobagum's 3.6 mm is on the shallower side. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Bobagum's shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and for those who prefer a deeper key press, the Crystal switch with its 4 mm travel distance would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40.
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 nearly silent experience when typing. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a unique acoustic signature described as chirpy. This gives it a slight squeak when pressed, setting it apart from other switches. Additionally, the Crystal switch produces a sharp and crisp high-pitched sound, which can be preferred by those who do not like richer and bassier sound profiles. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gazzew Bobagum switch provides a smooth and almost matte feel, which is different from the polished glide of ice-skating or the texture of unlubed switches. This unique texture offers an unparalleled tactility that distinguishes the Bobagum switch. Furthermore, the Bobagum switch is described as having a subtle resistance, resulting in a light typing feel. It also has a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
Contrastingly, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a different feel. It gives a fairly elastic type feel, which combines with its medium-light weight to provide a distinct linear typing experience. This makes the Crystal switch stand out from other switches available in the market. Additionally, the Crystal switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that provides a sleek typing experience. This polished finish can be achieved through the materials used and/or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bobagum provides a nearly silent sound profile and a smooth, subtle resistance for light typing, while the Crystal has a chirpy sound signature and a polished feel for a unique linear typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between them. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used to fully optimize the sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and unparalleled tactility, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is the way to go. These switches redefine smoothness and offer a unique matte feel that sets them apart. They also provide a nearly silent sound profile, making them perfect for quiet typing environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a linear typing experience, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is a great choice. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and a neutral sound profile. Additionally, the Crystal switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth key travel experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for tactility and sound, but both options offer high quality and satisfying typing experiences.
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