Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX EVA

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, both the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX EVA stand out as excellent choices for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience, each with its own unique flair. The Bobagum switches are celebrated for their remarkable smoothness, characterized by a matte feel that strikes a perfect balance between glide and texture, making it a top choice for those who value a quiet, subtle typing experience. With their bubblegum colors and nearly silent operation, Bobagum switches cater to users seeking a muted auditory profile while typing. In contrast, the HMX EVA takes inspiration from the striking colors of Evangelion Unit-01, boasting a resonant sound signature that may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience along with its silky smooth typing feel. While each switch has its own strengths—be it the Bobagum's understated elegance or the EVA's dynamic flair—deciding between them ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. 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 EVA Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gazzew Bobagum and HMX EVA switches demonstrate an intriguing comparison in their housing materials, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," known for its softness and ability to deliver a rich and deep sound. This material is designed to enhance the auditory experience, allowing for unique acoustic properties that differentiate it from traditional switch materials. In contrast, the HMX EVA employs nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material, characterized by its relatively lower density and softer composition compared to harder plastics, which results in a fuller and rounder sound profile.

Although both the Bobagum and HMX EVA switches utilize soft materials for their housing, they manifest distinct sound qualities and characteristics. The Gazzew Bobagum's proprietary blend is specifically engineered to provide a customized sound experience, contributing to the unique auditory profile of these switches. On the other hand, the nylon used in the HMX EVA creates a reliable and consistent sound quality that has been favored in the keyboard community for years. While both materials absorb sound effectively and contribute to a more muted acoustic footprint, the nuanced differences in the blends and compositions lead to slightly varied auditory experiences when typing.

When considering the overall audio output and sensation of the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX EVA switches, the impact of the different materials in the top and bottom housings becomes evident. In instances where the top and bottom housings differ, such as those found in these two switch types, the resulting sound profile is a fusion of each material's qualities. For instance, with the Bobagum's soft Gazzew blend top housing enhancing the release sound, and the nylon bottom housing of the EVA contributing to the bottom-out feel, one can achieve comparable results in terms of sound richness and depth, despite the material differences. This interplay illustrates how the distinct qualities of each housing material can harmonize to create unique typing experiences while still maintaining an overall balance in sound production.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Bobagum does not have a specified actuation force, while its bottom out force is 55 grams, which categorizes it as medium-light. In contrast, the EVA keypad switch features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a lower bottom out force of 48 grams. This difference in actuation force indicates that the EVA requires less pressure to register a keystroke, making it a potential favorite for users looking to type or game for extended periods without fatigue. Conversely, the Bobagum, with its heavier bottom-out force, may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Overall, the EVA switch is the lighter option due to both its actuation and bottom out forces being lower than those of the Bobagum, which offers a more pronounced tactile feedback but requires more force when fully depressed.

Travel distance

The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that they provide identical performance in terms of keypress depth. Since the travel distances are the same, users can expect a comparable tactile experience when using either switch. This similarity ensures that those who enjoy the feel of one switch will likely appreciate the other just as much, leading to consistent results in typing and gaming scenarios. Therefore, for those seeking a switch with a specific travel distance, both options deliver an equivalent experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX EVA linear switches, the Bobagum stands out with its notably muted sound. This switch produces a softer, quieter output than most traditional mechanical switches, making it an excellent choice for users seeking to minimize noise in shared spaces or quiet environments. In contrast, while the EVA’s sound signature is described as resonant, the specific details about its acoustic qualities remain unspecified. As such, one might anticipate that while the EVA offers a unique auditory experience, the Bobagum typically caters to those who prioritize discretion in their typing sounds.

In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch is characterized by a subtle resistance that provides a gentle typing experience. This switch's nearly matte texture enhances the overall smoothness, creating a light and pleasant touch that's not overly sensitive. The EVA, however, presents a silky smooth typing experience, but the lack of detailed descriptors leaves some uncertainty regarding how its feel might directly compare to the Bobagum’s more defined tactile qualities. Both switches likely offer a satisfying experience, though the specific nuances may differ slightly depending on personal preference and typing styles.

In summary, while the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is well-known for its muted sound and subtle feel, the HMX EVA is celebrated for its unique resonant sound and silky typing experience. If you seek a quieter option, the Bobagum is the superior choice, while the EVA might appeal more to those looking for a vibrant auditory experience. Overall, both switches promise smooth typing experiences, catering to different preferences in sound and tactile feel, so your choice should align with your priorities in a mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, it's essential to consider both your typing preferences and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force combined with a smooth, muted typing experience, the Bobagum is an excellent choice. Its subtle resistance and soft sound profile make it ideal for shared spaces, allowing you to type comfortably without disturbing others. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of only 48 grams and appreciate a distinct sound resonance, the HMX EVA may be more suitable for you. Inspired by the aesthetics of Evangelion, its silky smooth feel is perfect for those who want a less tactile but beautifully responsive switch. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize a muted, smooth experience with the Bobagum or a lighter, resonant typing feel with the EVA. Aligning your switch choice with your personal preferences and typing style will make for a more enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more