Gazzew Bobagum vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum, a linear switch, to the Durock Ice King Linear, also a linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Bobagum stands out for its unparalleled tactility and almost matte smoothness, providing a silent typing experience with its bubblegum-colored design. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear boasts a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, offering a polished and creamy feel. While both switches excel in their own ways, the Bobagum is categorized as muted and subtle, whereas the Ice King Linear is categorized as silky, frictionless, subdued, creamy, and polished. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Ice King Linear both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Bobagum uses a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound due to its softness. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear utilizes nylon for its housing, a classic switch material that also produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the Bobagum's housing material is specifically designed for its switches, the Ice King Linear's nylon housing is a more traditional choice.
In terms of the top housing, both the Bobagum's Gazzew blend and the Ice King Linear's nylon provide a similar effect on the sound of the switches. They both elicit a deep and full sound profile, with the softness of the materials aiding in sound absorption to create a rounder and duller sound. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gazzew blend of the Bobagum stands out with its rich and deep sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Ice King Linear contributes to the overall sound experience but may not have as significant of an impact as the top housing.
Overall, the choice between the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Ice King Linear will come down to personal preference and the desired sound profile. Both switches offer a unique sound experience due to their housing materials, with the Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend being specifically designed for its switches, while the Ice King Linear opts for the more classic nylon material. Whether you prefer a richer and deeper sound from the Bobagum or a traditional yet still deep sound from the Ice King Linear, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, it can be seen that the Bobagum has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Ice King Linear's 52 grams. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 62 grams, resulting in a medium level of force required to fully press the key. The Bobagum may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Ice King Linear may be favored by those who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a medium level of force required for typing, with the main difference being in the actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer slightly shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times. Gamers may particularly favor the shorter travel distance of the Ice King Linear for faster reactions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press experience, the Bobagum's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and key press responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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
In terms of sound, the Bobagum linear switch offers a muted typing experience, producing a softer and quieter sound that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch provides a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Both switches aim for a quieter typing experience, which can be enhanced or altered by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Bobagum linear switch provides a subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance that still maintains a light feel. The sound signature is also described as non-resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing feel. This means that typing on the Ice King Linear switch will be exceptionally smooth and effortless, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The choice between a subtle feel with the Bobagum or a silky and frictionless feel with the Ice King Linear will depend on the user's preference for typing experience.
Taking into account the available information, it is evident that both the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Bobagum switch provides a quieter and subtle typing experience with a matte texture, the Ice King Linear switch enhances smoothness and minimizes resistance for a silky typing feel. Depending on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches offer excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preferences and requirements for an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch or the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, you should take into account your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a switch with a unique tactile feel and almost silent sound profile, the Bobagum may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth typing experience with generous factory lube and a more subdued sound, the Ice King Linear could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics and it is important to test them out yourself to see which one aligns best with your typing preferences.
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