Gazzew Bobagum vs. TTC Ice

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between various options that cater to their typing preferences and gaming needs. The Gazzew Bobagum switches stand out with their unique 'matte' feel that balances smoothness and texture, creating a tactile experience that many users appreciate. Known for their muted and subtle sound profile, Bobagum switches are ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing environment without sacrificing tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches offer a visually stunning crystal-clear design and deliver a responsive feel paired with a satisfying bottom-out sound. This makes them a go-to choice for gamers and typists who enjoy an engaging, auditory feedback during their sessions. While both switches provide a linear typing experience, their distinct characteristics cater to different user preferences. 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

TTC Ice Linear

$6.50 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the TTC Ice, distinct differences in their compositions and resulting sound profiles emerge. The Bobagum employs a proprietary blend of plastics known as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings. This material is recognized for its softness, which contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the TTC Ice utilizes polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic type, for both its top and bottom housings. This choice leads to a sharper, clearer sound profile characterized by higher pitches and resonant tones. The disparity in materials suggests that users can expect notably different auditory experiences when interacting with these switches.

From an aesthetic perspective, the differences in housing materials also play a significant role. The Bobagum's "boba plastic," while effective for sound dampening, is less translucent compared to the TTC Ice's polycarbonate. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind, as the clear housing allows for better light diffusion. The aesthetic allure of the Ice will be more pronounced in illuminated setups, whereas the Bobagum may appeal to those who prioritize a different tactile and auditory experience over visual effects.

Ultimately, the interaction of the different housing materials in these switches affects not only sound but also the user experience. When pressed, the Bobagum's softer boba plastic tends to absorb impact and deliver a more muted bottom-out sound, while the TTC Ice's stiffer polycarbonate generates a crisper feedback upon actuation. This distinction implies that if both housing types were to be interchanged around a switch, users might achieve a comparable performance by leveraging the specific characteristics of each material. However, the end result will still hinge on the user's preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics, showcasing that while the switches can deliver similar functional outcomes, their sonic signatures and tactile feedback will ultimately dictate user satisfaction.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, several differences emerge. The Bobagum switch does not have a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorized as medium-light. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch features a clear actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is classified as medium. This indicates that the Bobagum switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Ice switch is heavier, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The absence of a specific actuation force for the Bobagum makes it challenging to fully assess its key activation feel, but it can still provide a light touch given its bottom out measurement. Therefore, users who value lighter keys for extended typing sessions might prefer the Bobagum, while those who appreciate a stronger push would likely opt for the TTC Ice.

Travel distance

The travel distances of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch are both identical, measuring 3.6 mm. This means that users will experience a similar amount of key travel when pressing down on either switch. As a result, users can expect comparable tactile feedback and performance characteristics when using these switches. The uniform distance ensures that both switches provide a consistent typing experience, making them equally appealing for those who prefer a shorter travel distance in their keyboard switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is known for its muted profile, which allows for a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other more noisy mechanical switches. This can be particularly beneficial in shared workspaces or quieter environments where noise levels need to be kept low. In contrast, the sound profile of the TTC Ice switch is less clearly defined, as there is no specific description provided. However, one can anticipate that the unique design of the Ice switches might contribute a distinct sound, showcasing some variability depending on the keyboard setup, including factors like board material and keycap choice.

Focusing on feel, the Bobagum switch is characterized by its subtle resistance, providing a smooth and responsive typing experience without any harsh feedback. This gentle resistance ensures a comfortable feel during prolonged use, making it a suitable choice for both casual and serious typists. Conversely, the TTC Ice switch is presented as having a smooth and responsive feel, though without a definitive descriptor, it's difficult to ascertain how it compares. However, we can reasonably say that it offers a premium typing experience, which may appeal to gamers and everyday users alike.

In conclusion, while both the Gazzew Bobagum and the TTC Ice linear switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Bobagum excels in minimizing sound and providing a subtle resistance that is ideal for quiet environments, while the Ice switches promise a smooth typing experience with their visually appealing design. Overall, both options offer similar results in terms of providing a pleasant typing experience, but if your priority is sound minimization and a matte feel, the Bobagum may be the better choice, whereas the Ice might appeal more if you prioritize visual aesthetics and responsiveness.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, consider your specific typing preferences and environments. If you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams and value smoothness and quiet operation, the Bobagum is likely the better choice for you. Its unique matte feel and nearly silent sound profile make it ideal for office settings or shared spaces where you want minimal noise disruption. On the other hand, if you lean towards a slightly firmer typing experience with a bottom-out force of 60 grams, the TTC Ice switch could suit you better, especially if you appreciate a bit more feedback when you type. The Ice switch provides a visually striking design and delivers a smooth, responsive feel along with a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it a wonderful option for both gaming and daily use. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter typing style or a more tactile feedback experience, so select the switch that best aligns with your typing habits and the environment in which you’ll be using it.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more