Gazzew Bobagum vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gazzew Bobagum and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar represent two distinct linear options that cater to different typing preferences. The Bobagum is celebrated for its unique smoothness and muted feel, characterized by an almost 'matte' texture that strikes a balance between polished glide and the rawness of unlubed switches. This switch provides a nearly silent typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a subtle auditory profile in shared or quiet environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree Cedar combines affordability with reliability, showcasing Gateron's trusted craftsmanship. Known for its satisfying poppy sound, the Everfree Cedar is perfect for users who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback while typing. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, their tactile experiences and sound profiles set them apart. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar employ distinct housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. The Bobagum features a proprietary blend of plastics often referred to as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings. This material is celebrated for its softness, which results in a rich, deep sound profile that emphasizes warmth and fullness. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar utilizes a combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Polycarbonate’s rigidity contributes to a sharper, crisper sound that resonates more clearly, particularly beneficial for utilizing RGB lighting. Thus, while both switches aim for quality sound performance, they achieve this through wholly different material characteristics, shaping the overall auditory experience as well as the tactile feedback during a keystroke.
When examining the bottom housing, both switches again diverge in material choice. The Bobagum's bottom housing maintains the same soft “boba plastic,” which imbues a rich depth to the sound and absorbs some vibrations, leading to a more rounded feel. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Everfree (EF) Cedar retains a rounder tonal quality but does so by nature of its inherently softer composition, thus creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Each switch’s bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the overall acoustics, but they take different paths to achieve their signature qualities. In essence, both switches utilize soft materials that minimize harsh sounds, but the nature of these materials transforms how those sounds are perceived at different points in the keystroke.
Finally, the combined effects of their differently constructed housings lead to distinctive experiences when typing on these switches. With the Bobagum, the interplay of its soft top and bottom housings produces a consistent acoustic experience that is richer in depth, while the Everfree (EF) Cedar creates a dynamic range where the top housing delivers crisp sounds during keystrokes, complemented by the deeper tones of the nylon bottom. Users looking to immerse themselves in a deeper soundscape may gravitate towards the Bobagum, whereas those seeking clarity and brightness may prefer the Everfree Cedar. Thus, while both switches might deliver satisfying tactile feedback and enjoyable acoustic experiences, the materials employed create a dichotomy that highlights the distinct characteristics cherished by keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to different preferences in typing and gaming. The Bobagum has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light, but its actuation force remains unspecified. This lack of an actuation force measurement suggests that it may feel easier to press, potentially appealing to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch has a defined actuation force of 55 grams, indicating a firmer response that might suit those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Cedar is unknown, which leaves uncertainties about how it feels when pressed all the way down. Overall, while the Bobagum could provide a lighter experience overall, the Cedar delivers a clear and defined actuation point that some users may prefer, particularly those who appreciate a heavier feel. Thus, users should weigh their personal preferences when choosing between these two switches, keeping in mind the differences in force responses.
Travel distance
Both the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning they provide the same feel when pressing down on a key. As a result, users can expect similar performance and responsiveness from both switches, leading to a consistent typing experience. Since their travel distances are identical, there won't be any noticeable difference in how far each switch travels from the top to the bottom. If you're considering either of these switches, you can confidently choose either one without worrying about variations in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Everfree (EF) Cedar for $2.75.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gazzew Bobagum and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches, the Bobagum stands out with a notably muted tone. This design minimizes the typical mechanical keyboard noise, providing a softer and quieter experience that’s ideal for those in shared spaces or seeking a more discreet typing environment. In contrast, while the sound profile of the Everfree Cedar switch is not explicitly defined in the information provided, Gateron switches generally offer a satisfactory acoustic experience. However, it can be inferred that the Bobagum is likely to be quieter, making it a better choice for a silent setup.
Regarding feel, the Bobagum offers a unique typing sensation characterized by its subtle resistance, providing a gentle yet satisfying response. The smooth, almost matte texture enhances the overall typing experience, ensuring a glide that is neither too slick nor overly textured. Meanwhile, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Everfree Cedar switch, but Gateron’s reputation for reliability suggests it may deliver a consistently smooth experience as well. If Gateron’s standard feel aligns with their typical offerings, one can expect a subjective experience that is smooth yet distinct.
In conclusion, while the Gazzew Bobagum excels with its muted sound profile and subtle, smooth feel, the information on the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar is less comprehensive in these regards. If you appreciate a nearly silent and unique typing experience, the Bobagum is likely the preferable choice. However, if you seek a reliable and potentially more cost-effective option, the Gateron Everfree Cedar might still deliver satisfactory results, even if the specifics of its sound and feel remain somewhat ambiguous. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages, making them appealing based on individual preferences and use cases.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, your choice should ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a smooth, muted experience with a subtle touch, making it ideal for quieter settings such as an office or shared workspace, the Bobagum is certainly the switch for you. Its unique texture and nearly silent operation create a refined typing experience that minimizes distractions. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more cost-effective option without sacrificing smoothness and performance, and you enjoy a slightly more audible, poppy sound profile, then the Everfree (EF) Cedar could be the better choice. It's a reliable switch from a trusted brand, suitable for various typing conditions but might be more appropriate in personal spaces where the sound won't be an issue. Ultimately, consider your typing habits, the environments in which you’ll be using the keyboard, and what characteristics matter most to you when making your decision.
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