Gazzew Bobagum vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch. The Bobagum switch is known for its smoothness, providing a unique matte feel that offers unparalleled tactility while maintaining a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch stands out for its creamy smoothness combined with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying tactile experience that blends the best of both worlds. The Bobagum switch is categorized as 'Muted' and 'Subtle', while the Ice King Tactile switch is categorized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style; 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
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
68g
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 Tactile both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profile. The Bobagum utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, commonly known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile features a nylon top and bottom housing, a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials offer a softer quality that absorbs sound, the Bobagum's Gazzew blend may provide a slightly different sound experience compared to the Ice King Tactile's nylon.
Despite their differences, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Ice King Tactile share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches utilize materials that are known for their softness, which helps create a fuller and deeper sound profile when typing. The proprietary Gazzew blend used in the Bobagum's housing and the nylon material used in the Ice King Tactile's housing both absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, while the switches may have slight variations in their sound characteristics, users can expect a similar experience in terms of sound quality and feel when typing on either switch.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience can be felt in different ways depending on whether the top or bottom housing is being utilized. In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings can result in a unique typing experience that combines the characteristics of both materials in a harmonious way.
Weight
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, with 46 grams versus 58 grams, respectively. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bobagum is also lighter at 62 grams compared to the Ice King Tactile at 68 grams. Both switches fall in the medium range for actuation force, but the Ice King Tactile leans towards the heavier side when it comes to bottom out force. This means that the Bobagum may provide a lighter typing experience for those who prefer a gentler touch, while the Ice King Tactile offers a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Bobagum. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Tactile 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 Tactile 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
When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a muted and nearly silent typing experience, perfect for quiet environments where noise may be a concern. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch provides a subdued sound that is dampened and subtle, creating a more refined auditory experience. Both switches offer a pleasant typing sound that should not be disruptive, making them suitable for shared spaces. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch provides a subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance, ideal for those who prefer a light and smooth keypress. It also offers a matte feel that sets it apart from other switches, delivering a unique tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch is described as silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump. This combination of qualities makes typing on the Ice King Tactile switch a highly satisfying and effortless experience, perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile typing feel.
Overall, while both the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offer unique and desirable qualities, they cater to slightly different preferences in sound and feel. The Bobagum switch excels in providing a silent and subtly tactile typing experience, while the Ice King Tactile switch stands out for its smooth, tactile, and polished keypress. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch can offer a top-tier mechanical keyboard experience with exceptional smoothness and tactility. If you enjoy one, you'll likely find similar levels of satisfaction with the other, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a unique tactile experience that is almost 'matte' in feel, offering a nearly silent sound profile, then the Bobagum may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a symphony of touch, then the Ice King Tactile could be the better option. Consider the sound profile and the feel of each switch in relation to your typing environment and desired typing experience to make an informed decision that best suits your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer exceptional qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to choose based on what aligns best with your preferences.
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