Gazzew Bobagum vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and Durock Daybreak both offer unique characteristics to suit different preferences. The Bobagum stands out for its unparalleled smoothness and tactile feel, providing a typing experience akin to gliding on ice with a matte texture. It also boasts a nearly silent sound profile, making it perfect for quiet environments. On the other hand, the Daybreak offers a heavier typing experience with a solid 67g actuation force, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial touch. Despite the differences, both switches prioritize a muted sound profile, making them suitable for office settings or anywhere noise reduction is crucial. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and Durock Daybreak both use proprietary housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Gazzew Bobagum features a Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak utilizes a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Bobagum's softer bottom housing material.
While both switches aim to enhance the sound quality of keystrokes, the choice of housing materials in the Gazzew Bobagum and Durock Daybreak results in distinct auditory experiences. The Bobagum's Gazzew blend housing material emphasizes a softer and more mellow sound profile, while the Daybreak's polycarbonate and nylon housings offer a sharper and deeper sound respectively. The impact of these materials is felt both when pressing down on a key and when releasing it, showcasing the importance of top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound of a switch.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, the Durock Daybreak's use of polycarbonate and nylon in its housing materials offers a clear advantage for users looking for switches compatible with RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant illumination, while the acoustic properties of nylon contribute to a fuller sound experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew Bobagum's Gazzew blend housing materials cater to those seeking a softer and more subdued sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Durock Daybreak linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bobagum requires 62 grams while the Daybreak needs 67 grams, making the Daybreak the heavier option. While both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, the Bobagum may be preferred by those who prefer a slightly lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Daybreak may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Daybreak switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bobagum switch. The 0.2 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it could potentially affect the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for a longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances and would provide a similar experience in terms of key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for keypress depth and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Daybreak switches share a muted quality, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. However, the Daybreak offers an additional low-pitched characteristic, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the Bobagum. So, if you're looking for a switch that minimizes noise but has a deeper sound profile, the Daybreak might be the preferred choice.
In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch is known for its subtle tactility, offering a gentle resistance that still provides a satisfying typing experience without being overly pronounced. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak switch boasts a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined keystroke that reduces friction and provides a sleek typing feel. Depending on your preference for a more subtle tactile feedback or a smoother key travel, either of these switches could be a great fit for you.
Overall, both the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Daybreak switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prioritize a nearly silent sound profile and a distinctive tactile feel, the Bobagum might be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a hefty typing experience with a polished key travel and quieter operation, the Daybreak could be the ideal choice. Whichever switch you choose, both will provide a high-quality typing experience that can enhance your overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, consider the specific qualities and preferences you value in a keyboard switch. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force and a unique tactile experience with a near-silent sound profile, the Bobagum may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel, along with a quiet operation and a polished, smooth typing experience, the Daybreak could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and preferences to ensure the best keyboard switch selection for your needs.
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