Gazzew Bobagum vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, both linear switches but with distinct characteristics. The Bobagum switch stands out for its unique smoothness that offers a tactile feel like no other, accompanied by a nearly silent sound profile during typing. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron is a heavier linear switch, appealing to those seeking a more substantive typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. While the Bobagum is categorized as 'Muted' and 'Subtle', the G Pro 3.0 Black is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Silky', and 'Subtle'. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black are quite different in terms of their sound profiles. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to their softness, creating a satisfying and deep sound when typing. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing brings a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as being clacky, while the POM bottom housing provides a deeper and more muted sound. This results in a more versatile typing experience with the Gateron switch, offering a mix of high and low tones, while the Bobagum switch focuses more on the deep and rich sound.
In terms of feel, the housing materials also play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The Gazzew Bobagum's blend top and bottom housings contribute to a softer bottom-out feel, making typing on this switch a more cushioned and comfortable experience. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing creates a more solid and stable bottom-out feel, providing a different tactile sensation when typing. This difference in feel can impact the way users perceive the switch's overall performance and comfort during extended typing sessions.
While the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences, both switches ultimately provide a satisfying typing experience. The Bobagum switch emphasizes a deep and rich sound with a softer feel, ideal for those who prefer a more cushioned typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron switch provides a mix of high and low tones with a more stable bottom-out feel, catering to users who enjoy a versatile typing experience with a unique sound profile. Whether you prefer a soft and deep typing sound or a more clacky and high-pitched sound, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience tailored to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is clear that the Gazzew Bobagum is lighter overall. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight option. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black is heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy category. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but individuals who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Bobagum for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to more traditional switches at 4.0 mm, with the G Pro being on the shallower end. Gamers typically prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Bobagum a popular choice for gaming. However, some may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. On the other hand, the G Pro's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of response time and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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, the Gazzew Bobagum offers a muted typing experience, with a softer and quieter sound profile that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky and medium-high pitch sound when pressed. The Bobagum's sound is more subdued and gentle, while the G Pro 3.0 Black's sound is crisper and more percussive. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, where the Bobagum leans towards a more silent typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a sharper sound when typing.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew Bobagum switch is known for its unparalleled tactility, offering a smooth and almost 'matte' feel that is unique and not quite like other switches. It provides a subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is described as creamy and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience due to lubricant applied in the switch at the factory. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a balanced medium-heavy feel with a 60g actuation force and 70g bottom-out force, providing a more substantive typing experience compared to the Bobagum's lighter touch.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Bobagum provides a quieter and more subtle typing experience with a unique tactility, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a crisper sound and creamier, silkier feel that appeals to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches cater to different typing experiences, ensuring that users can find the switch that best suits their needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for typing experience. If you value a smoother, almost matte-like feel with unparalleled tactility and a nearly silent sound profile, then the Bobagum might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantive typing experience with a balanced medium-heavy feel, along with a medium-high pitch sound and vibrant RGB lighting effects, then the G Pro 3.0 Black could be the better option. Consider your priorities for feel, sound, and overall typing experience to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.