Gazzew Bobagum vs. Gateron Ink Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron Ink Red. The Bobagum switches are best known for their unique smoothness, offering a tactile experience unlike any other. With an almost 'matte' feel, these switches provide a distinct texture that falls somewhere between the polished glide of ice-skating and the unlubed switches. Additionally, the Bobagums boast a nearly silent sound profile, making them a great choice for those who prefer quieter typing experiences. On the other hand, the Ink Red switches are recognized for their lower actuation force, making them ideal for individuals with a lighter typing style. These switches provide a satisfyingly smooth feel and emit a crisp and clacky sound when typing. They are effortless to use and categorized as neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$6.50 per 10

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron Ink Red switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Gazzew Bobagum utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," which produces a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. This results in a satisfying thin and clacky sound. While they have different sound profiles, both switches offer unique auditory experiences.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron Ink Red switches exhibit their own qualities. The Gazzew Bobagum utilizes the same proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing as its top housing, resulting in a consistent rich and deep sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which contributes to the switch's relatively high-pitched and clacky sound. Despite their differences, the bottom housings of both switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel when pressed.

It is important to note that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the characteristics of each housing material will be distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Gazzew Bobagum or the Gateron Ink Red, the qualities of the bottom housing become evident, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron Ink Red differ in their housing materials, they both contribute to the overall auditory experience and feel of the switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it is clear that both switches have very similar specifications. The Bobagum has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams, compared to the Ink Red's 45 grams. Similarly, the Bobagum has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Ink Red has a slightly lower bottom out force of 60 grams. Despite these slight differences, both switches fall within the medium range in terms of force required.

In terms of weight considerations, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find both switches suitable, as they both offer a relatively low actuation force. This lighter feel can be beneficial for those who type for extended periods, such as when using a keyboard at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards switches with heavier forces. While both switches have medium force requirements, the Bobagum may provide a slightly heavier feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces.

Overall, the Gazzew Bobagum and Gateron Ink Red switches offer comparable actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable options for those seeking a medium typing experience. Whether one prefers a slightly higher actuation and bottom out force or a slightly lower one, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch have different travel distances. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ink Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Ink Red falls within the standard range of 4.0 mm, while the Bobagum is slightly shorter. This may be appealing to gamers who prioritize faster response times, as shorter travel distances are often preferred in gaming. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Ink Red's longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's personal preference for travel distance and desired level of responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a nearly silent typing experience. These bubblegum-colored switches produce a muted sound profile, which means they are much softer and quieter compared to regular or clacky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a neutral sound profile with a hint of chirpiness. While they are not completely silent, they have a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

Moving on to feel, the Gazzew Bobagum switch provides a unique and subtle tactile experience. They offer a gentle resistance that is not too feather-light, giving users a light typing feel. In addition, the Bobagum switch has a subtle and non-resonant sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red switch delivers a silky smooth typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, enhancing the overall typing feel by minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Moreover, the Ink Red switch falls into the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that most users can approach comfortably. The switch's polished finish also contributes to its smooth and refined feel, resulting in a sleek typing experience.

Taking into account all the available information, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The Bobagum switch provides an unparalleled tactility with its unique matte feel, producing a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch stands out with its lower actuation force, satisfyingly smooth feel, and a crisp clacky sound profile. While the Bobagum switch may not have the lower actuation force or chirpiness of the Ink Red, it still offers a smooth and gentle typing experience. Similarly, the Ink Red switch may not provide the same level of tactile feel and muted sound profile as the Bobagum, but it compensates with its smoothness and effortless typing. It ultimately depends on the individual's preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch, you can expect a medium bottom out force of 62 grams. These switches redefine smoothness with a unique 'matte' feel and offer unparalleled tactility. Additionally, the Bobagum switches provide a nearly silent sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.

On the other hand, if you have a lighter typing style, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch may be more suitable for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches are satisfyingly smooth and effortless to type on. They also have a crispy and clacky sound profile, adding a bit of character to your typing experience.

In terms of sound, the Bobagum switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch has a neutral sound profile overall, but with a unique chirpy characteristic that sets it apart.

When it comes to feel, the Bobagum switch offers a subtle resistance and light typing feel, with a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. The Ink Red switch, on the other hand, offers a silky smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. It falls into a mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that most people will find approachable. Additionally, the Ink Red switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience.

Ultimately, choosing between the Bobagum and Ink Red switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a unique and nearly silent typing experience with an unparalleled tactility, the Bobagum switch may be your best choice. However, if you have a lighter typing style and enjoy a smooth and effortless typing experience with a bit of character in the sound profile, the Ink Red switch would be a great option for you.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

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Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more