Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX Deep Navy

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Deep Navy both offer unique attributes that cater to different user preferences. The Bobagum switches are celebrated for their exceptional smoothness and almost 'matte' tactile feel, providing a muted typing experience ideal for users seeking discretion in sound and texture. Their bubblegum color adds a playful touch, while their nearly silent operation makes them perfect for office environments or shared spaces. Conversely, the Deep Navy switches deliver a richer auditory experience, featuring a sharp sound profile that enhances the tactile feedback with every keystroke. Built from full nylon, they promise both durability and a silky smooth touch, appealing to those who appreciate both auditory and tactile satisfaction in their typing. Choosing between these two switches largely depends on whether you prioritize a subdued and smooth experience or a vibrant and audible feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Deep Navy, important distinctions emerge in how their material properties contribute to sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Gazzew Bobagum utilizes a proprietary blend of plastics, affectionately called "boba plastic," for both its top and bottom housings. This material is explicitly designed to deliver rich and deep sound characteristics, thanks to its inherent softness. On the other hand, the HMX Deep Navy switches are made with nylon for both the top and bottom housings, a material that is recognized for its durability and sound-dampening qualities. While both materials are soft compared to harder plastics, the unique properties of boba plastic may deliver a slightly different auditory experience compared to the well-established nylon.

Despite their differences, there are intriguing parallels in the sound profiles generated by these two switches. Both the Gazzew blend and nylon are noted for their contributions to producing deeper and fuller sound profiles. The Gazzew Bobagum's top housing leverages the properties of its plastic blend to enhance sound when a key is released, while the nylon top housing of the HMX Deep Navy similarly aims to produce a rounder sound. This points to the effectiveness of softer materials in producing a sound signature that is more muted and rich, regardless of whether they are from a proprietary blend or a traditional material like nylon. This means that despite the different names and technologies, both switches can achieve similar sound results stemming from their housing characteristics.

Ultimately, the combined impact of the Gazzew blend and nylon across the top and bottom switch housings plays a critical role in defining the overall typing experience. For instance, the softness of the Gazzew plastic in the Bobagum enhances bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon housing of the Deep Navy provides an equally enjoyable experience. Thus, while there are material differences between the two models, the overarching goal of creating a rich and dynamic auditory response remains consistent. Each switch, through its unique housing materials, achieves a complementary sound profile, showcasing how varying yet soft plastics can lead to similar desirable outcomes in keyboard design.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bobagum does not have a specified actuation force, but its bottom out force is measured at 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. Conversely, the Deep Navy has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Bobagum would likely provide a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, appealing to users who prefer a heavier push. In contrast, the Deep Navy's lighter forces may allow for longer typing sessions with less fatigue, making it better suited for work or extended use. In summary, while the Bobagum is heavier at the bottom out force, the Deep Navy is the lighter option overall, particularly in terms of actuation force.

Travel distance

Both the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that users can expect similar tactile feedback and key press depth with either switch. Since both switches travel the same distance from the top to the bottom, users will achieve consistent results in terms of feel and responsiveness, making either option a suitable choice for those who favor linear switches. The equal travel distance enhances compatibility in terms of typing experience, allowing for a seamless transition between the two switches if desired.

Price comparison

Typing experience

Starting with sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is known for its nearly silent operation, producing a muted sound profile that is softer and quieter than many traditional mechanical switches. This makes it a great option for those who prefer a more subtle auditory experience or work in shared environments where noise levels matter. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch offers a rich, sharper sound profile that comes from its full nylon construction. The auditory feedback from the Deep Navy is not only more pronounced but also distinct enough to provide an engaging typist experience. Thus, while the Bobagum embraces a quieter, more discreet sound, the Deep Navy caters to those who enjoy a more resonant auditory response when typing.

When considering feel, the Bobagum switch excels with its almost 'matte' texture that redefines smoothness, combining gentle resistance with a light typing experience. This subtle feel allows for comfortable typing over extended periods without causing fatigue, which suits users who type frequently or in shared settings. Meanwhile, the Deep Navy switch is designed for smoothness with every keystroke, featuring a silky texture thanks to its Ly stem. Although specific descriptions of the Deep Navy’s feel are less defined, the emphasis on a smooth typing experience suggests that it too offers a compelling tactile sensation, albeit potentially more engaging than the gentle feel of the Bobagum.

In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Deep Navy linear switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Bobagum provides a muted, subtler auditory experience with a unique, smooth tactile feel ideal for quiet environments, while the Deep Navy delivers a richer sound and a silky-smooth keystroke that enhances the act of typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a nearly silent experience with a gentle touch or a pronounced sound with a smooth tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, your choice should reflect your typing preferences and environment. If you value a medium-light bottom out force with a unique, matte-like tactile feel, the Bobagum is an excellent option. Its nearly silent sound profile and subtle resistance make it particularly well-suited for shared spaces, allowing you to type comfortably without disturbing others. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter feel with a bottom out force of only 45 grams, the HMX Deep Navy may be the better choice for you. Its sharp sound profile and smooth keystrokes create an engaging typing experience that may appeal to those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on your priorities—whether you seek a quieter, smoother experience in a communal environment like the Bobagum or a lively sound and lighter touch offered by the Deep Navy.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more