Gazzew Bobagum vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink

Overview

The Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron Ink Box Pink are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for keyboard enthusiasts. The Bobagum is best known for its unparalleled tactility and smoothness, with an almost 'matte' feel that sets it apart from other switches. The bubblegum-colored switches provide a nearly silent sound profile when typing, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a muted and subtle experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switches offer a lighter typing feel and are admired for their beautiful translucent design. These switches provide a smoother typing experience compared to other switches and produce a higher-pitched clack when in use. With their polished and silky feel, the Ink Box Pink switches are perfect for those who enjoy a clacky and high-pitched experience. 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

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$6.50 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gazzew Bobagum and Gateron Ink Box Pink differ in the materials used for their top and bottom housings. Starting with the top housings, the Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend, also known as "boba plastic." This unique blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend, which is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is not overly sharp. This results in a satisfying thin and clacky sound when typing.

Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches feature proprietary plastic blends. The Bobagum's bottom housing, similar to its top housing, uses the Gazzew blend, providing a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's INK blend for its bottom housing. This also contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile but adds a unique element to the overall acoustics of the switch.

It is important to note that while the top and bottom housings differ between the Bobagum and Ink Box Pink, both materials influence the sound and feel of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become apparent, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Similarly, the top housing has a significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, despite differences in the specific materials used, both switches offer similar experiences with regard to sound and feel, albeit with nuanced variations.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. Both switches fall into the medium category when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams.

In terms of actuation force, the Bobagum is slightly lighter by 4 grams compared to the Ink Box Pink. This means that it would require a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke on the Bobagum switch. However, the difference is relatively small, so the overall feel would be quite similar between the two.

When it comes to bottom out force, the Bobagum is heavier by 2 grams compared to the Ink Box Pink. This means that while typing, the Bobagum switch would provide a slightly more substantial typing experience as it requires a bit more force to fully press down. However, once again, the difference is not significant, so the overall typing feel between the two switches would still be quite similar.

Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions might lean towards the Bobagum due to its lighter actuation force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Ink Box Pink due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, these two switches provide similar results. Whether you choose the Bobagum or the Ink Box Pink, you can expect a consistent and comfortable key press experience with a travel distance of 3.6 mm.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a muted sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Bobagum switches are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a more subtle and less disruptive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a clacky sound with a higher-pitched tone. This produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Bobagum switches would be the better choice. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as your keyboard and keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Bobagum switches redefine smoothness with an almost "matte" feel. While not as polished and gliding as ice-skating, they offer a unique tactility that sets them apart. The Bobagum switches have a subtle resistance that is not feather-light but still maintains a light typing feel. This gentler resistance enhances the overall smoothness of the typing experience, making it suitable even for shared spaces where a more quiet and gentle touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches are described as silky and polished. They offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Ink Box Pink switches have a refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. If you prioritize a silky and refined typing feel, the Ink Box Pink switches would be a great choice.

In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bobagum switches provide a muted sound profile and a subtler typing feel with their unique tactility. They are suitable for those who prefer a quieter and softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switches have a clacky sound with a higher-pitched tone and offer a silky smooth typing feel with a more polished finish. Depending on your personal preferences and the desired sound and feel you are looking for, both switches offer different experiences. However, it is worth noting that the actual sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps chosen.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with an unparalleled tactility and a nearly silent sound profile, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the Bobagum offers a smooth typing experience with a subtle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. The muted sound profile of the Bobagum switch ensures that your typing experience remains soft and quiet.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great option. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Ink Box Pink switch provides a silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its polished finish and minimal resistance. The clacky and high-pitched sound profile adds a crisp and bright touch to your typing.

Ultimately, your choice between the Bobagum and Ink Box Pink will depend on your personal preferences. If you value an unparalleled tactility and a nearly silent typing experience, go for the Bobagum switch. However, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink switch should be your go-to option. Consider your desired typing experience and sound profile to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more