Gazzew Bobagum vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Bobagum switch is revered for its smoothness and tactile feedback, providing a distinct typing experience with a muted and subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch boasts a polycarbonate construction that delivers a bouncy and chirpy typing experience, with a polished sound signature. While the Bobagum switch offers unparalleled tactility, the V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a bright and smooth 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
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro are quite different in terms of sound profile. The Bobagum's Gazzew blend top and bottom housings are made of a proprietary plastic blend that delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the V3 Crystal Pro features polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience.
In aesthetic terms, the housing materials of the Bobagum and the V3 Crystal Pro also differ. The Bobagum's Gazzew blend housings are opaque, providing a classic and understated appearance. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housings are translucent, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through and create a visually striking effect. This difference in appearance adds another dimension to the overall design of the keyboard, catering to different preferences in terms of visual aesthetics.
Despite their differences, both the Gazzew Bobagum and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro ultimately serve the same purpose of providing a housing for the switches that impacts the sound and feel of typing. While the Gazzew blend and polycarbonate materials may result in different sound profiles, both materials are chosen for their specific qualities that enhance the typing experience. Whether you prefer the softer, deeper sound of the Bobagum or the sharper, crisper sound of the V3 Crystal Pro, both keyboards offer a unique and satisfying typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch have similar actuation and bottom out forces, with the Bobagum being slightly lighter. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Some may prefer the Bobagum for a slightly lighter typing experience, which can be more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the V3 Crystal Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gazzew Bobagum has a shorter travel distance compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro. A 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Bobagum for quicker response times. However, those who prefer a deeper press may opt for the Akko V3 with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 compared to regular mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out with a chirpy sound signature, adding a unique acoustic element to typing. Depending on your preference, the Bobagum provides a more subtle and silent typing experience, while the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bright and lively sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Bobagum switch provides a smooth and almost 'matte' feel that offers a unique tactility, blending a gentle resistance with a quiet sound signature suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy feel with a spring-like feedback sensation, providing a lively typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the Crystal Pro switch enhances the smoothness of key travel, offering a sleek and refined typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gazzew Bobagum and Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a muted and subtle typing experience, the Bobagum switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a chirpy sound signature and a bouncy, polished feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, providing a personalized typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for switch bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a smoother, almost 'matte' feel with a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lower bottom out force and a bright, chirpy sound signature with a bouncy and polished typing feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you personally prefer and prioritize.
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