Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX FJ400

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX FJ400 are both linear options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Bobagum switches are celebrated for their unique 'matte' feel, which strikes a harmonious balance between a smooth glide and a textured surface, making them ideal for users seeking a refined tactile experience. Additionally, the nearly silent sound profile of the Bobagum offers a discreet typing option, perfect for shared workspaces or late-night gaming. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 serves as a versatile middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, delivering a balanced sound profile that appeals to those who enjoy a more dynamic auditory feedback while maintaining a linear feel. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the choice between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences for texture and sound. 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 FJ400 Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX FJ400's housing materials, it becomes evident that both switches utilize distinctive proprietary materials that influence their acoustic properties. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," for both its top and bottom housings. This unique blend contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its inherent softness, which promotes a satisfying auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the FJ400 employs a POM material for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. While POM is known for producing a unique yet deeper and relatively muted sound, nylon is a well-regarded classic in the switch housing domain, providing a deeper and fuller audio profile thanks to its softer characteristics.

Despite the differences in material composition, both the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX FJ400 manage to achieve similar sound profiles in some aspects. The impact of the bottom housing is crucial, especially since it predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press. The nylon used in the FJ400's bottom housing mirrors the softness of the Gazzew blend, allowing for sound absorption that results in a deeper and rounder acoustic quality. Both switches create a satisfying auditory experience, albeit through varying materials that showcase their own distinct properties. This design approach means that even when materials diverge, the objectives—richness of sound and user experience—remain aligned.

Furthermore, while the blend of materials might suggest varied acoustic outcomes, the contrasting properties of the top and bottom housings in each switch offer unique sound profiles that complement each other. The Gazzew blend's softness in both housing components creates a seamless auditory experience, with clarity retained throughout the range of motion. Conversely, the FJ400's combination of POM and nylon results in a richer sound when pressing down, paired with a muted release, giving users an appealing juxtaposition that maintains satisfaction. Ultimately, both housing combinations, through their various characteristics, allow users to appreciate deep and engaging sound profiles, demonstrating that different materials can lead to surprisingly harmonious results in tactile feedback and auditory pleasure.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch with the HMX FJ400 linear switch, significant differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bobagum has an unknown actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which classifies it as medium-light. In contrast, the FJ400 features a known actuation force of 50 grams, alongside a slightly heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it within the medium range. Consequently, the FJ400 is the heavier option in terms of actuation force, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Bobagum, with its lighter and potentially unmeasured actuation force, may offer a more comfortable experience for extended typing sessions if the actuation force aligns closely with the preference for lighter switches. Overall, if the Bobagum's actuation force were to fall within a similar range to the FJ400's, users could expect comparable typing experiences, with the choice between them ultimately hinging on the desired bottom out feel and overall weight.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, the Bobagum features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the FJ400 has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that if you opt for the Bobagum, you'll experience a slightly shorter key press, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the FJ400, with its increased travel distance, provides a more pronounced depth that some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness or depth, with the Bobagum being the shorter option and the FJ400 the longer one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch excels with its muted profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to more traditional mechanical switches known for their clackiness. This characteristic makes it particularly appealing for those seeking a more discreet typing experience, ideal for shared environments. On the other hand, while the sound profile of the HMX FJ400 linear switch is described as balanced, specific descriptors about its noise level are not provided. This suggests that while the FJ400 maintains a middle ground in sound, it may not prioritize quietness to the same extent as the Bobagum.

In terms of feel, the Bobagum linear switch offers a unique typing experience characterized by its subtle resistance. This gentle feedback ensures a light and comfortable typing feel, making it suitable for extended sessions without causing fatigue. The lack of resonant sound further complements this tactile design, making it optimal for shared workspaces where noise could be a concern. Unfortunately, the feel of the HMX FJ400 is not detailed, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares to the Bobagum in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.

In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is tailored for those who value a smooth, muted, and subtle typing experience, making it an excellent choice for quiet environments. While the HMX FJ400 provides a balanced sound profile, more information is needed to make a firm comparison regarding its feel and sound. For newcomers, the Bobagum offers a reliable option that promises a unique tactile and auditory experience, while the FJ400 remains an intriguing alternative pending further insights.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a switch that feels incredibly smooth with a unique matte texture, complemented by a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum would be the ideal choice, particularly if you often type in shared spaces where quieter operation is essential. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams offers a gentle typing experience that is both subtle and satisfying, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. Conversely, if you prefer a switch that strikes a balance between a slightly firmer feel and a more pronounced acoustic response, the HMX FJ400 is likely the better fit. With a bottom-out force of 58 grams, it provides a bit more resistance while still maintaining a pleasant typing experience, making it suitable for a wider range of activities, including gaming and general use. Ultimately, consider your typing style, the noise level of your environment, and whether you prioritize a lighter or slightly heavier switch response when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

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HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more