Gazzew Bobagum vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Kang White. The Bobagum is known for its smoothness, offering a unique tactile feel that is unlike any other. Its almost 'matte' texture sets it apart, providing a glide similar to ice-skating but with a touch that is unmatched by unlubed switches. Additionally, typing on these bubblegum-colored switches is virtually silent, contributing to a muted and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White is celebrated for its dazzling typing sound, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience. Made from self-lubricating material, these switches offer an unparalleled smoothness when typing. Categorized as low-pitched and neutral, the Kang White provides a satisfying typing experience without overwhelming the user with too much noise. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Kang White switches differ significantly, resulting in varied sound profiles and aesthetics. The Bobagum utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend plastic in its top housing, known as "boba plastic." This soft plastic blend generates a rich and deep sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White employs a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, being translucent, polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of the switch when used with RGB lighting.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of these switches also differ. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend delivers a softness that contributes to its rich sound profile, while the Kang White's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience.
When using a switch with different top and bottom housings, the characteristics of each housing material are mirrored in the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing impacts the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing materials for each switch can significantly influence the typing experience and overall satisfaction of the user.
In summary, the Gazzew Bobagum and KTT Kang White switches differ in their choice of housing materials. The Bobagum utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend plastic for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a soft and rich sound profile. In contrast, the Kang White incorporates polycarbonate in its top housing, producing a sharper and crisper sound. The bottom housing of the Kang White is made of nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Bobagum's soft Gazzew blend. Ultimately, these housing material choices contribute to distinct typing experiences and differing sound profiles for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, the differences are quite minimal. Both switches have relatively similar actuation forces, with the Bobagum requiring 46 grams and the Kang White requiring just a slightly lesser force of 45 grams. This means that typing on both switches will feel relatively light and responsive. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bobagum is slightly heavier, requiring 62 grams of force compared to the Kang White's 58 grams. This means that the Bobagum switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience, offering a stronger push feel. Nevertheless, the differences in bottom out force are rather small, and both switches can still provide users with a pleasing typing experience. Therefore, if weight is a key consideration, those who prefer a lighter switch may lean towards the Kang White, while individuals who enjoy a slightly heavier feel may opt for the Bobagum.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Kang White linear switches, it is evident that they have different lengths. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kang White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Bobagum falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it more suitable for gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Kang White provides a slightly deeper feeling due to its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial keypress. It is important to note that while the Bobagum offers a shorter travel distance, it still provides adequate feedback and keypress depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99.
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
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is renowned for its unique smoothness, providing a distinct tactile experience. It offers a slightly matte texture, different from the polished glide of ice-skating or the unlubed switch's texture. This unparalleled tactility sets the Bobagum apart from other switches. Notably, typing on these bubblegum-colored switches produces a nearly silent sound profile, making them ideal for situations where minimal noise is desired.
On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch is highly regarded for its exceptional typing sound. The switch offers a dazzling poppy sound that captivates users. Additionally, the self-lubricating material used in constructing the Kang Whites enhances the smoothness of typing, ensuring a seamless experience.
In terms of sound, the Bobagum switch produces a muted sound, which softens and minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the Kang White switch produces a low-pitched sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This neutral sound profile makes the Kang Whites suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists, and whether they intend to use the switches at home or work. It's important to note that the sound produced by the switches can be influenced by other components such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Bobagum switch provides a subtle and gentle resistance while still maintaining a light typing feel. The switch offers a comfortable and pleasant typing experience without generating a resonant sound signature. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the specific feel of the Kang White switch.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum and KTT Kang White switches possess distinct qualities that differentiate them in terms of sound and feel. The Bobagum offers a nearly silent sound profile and a unique smoothness with its 'matte' feel, guaranteeing unparalleled tactility. Meanwhile, the Kang White switch presents a mesmerizing poppy sound and exceptional smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. While the Kang Whites' specific feel remains unknown, it is likely to provide a neutral typing experience. Those seeking a muted, smooth, and tactile switch would find the Bobagum appealing, while those desiring a low-pitched, mellow sound and smooth typing experience would prefer the Kang Whites. However, as with any switch, individual preferences and other factors such as keyboard board and keycaps also play a crucial role in achieving the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch that offers unparalleled tactility and a nearly silent sound profile, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the Bobagum switch provides a smooth and matte feel that is truly one of a kind. The muted sound profile of the Bobagum switch is perfect for those who prefer a softer and quieter typing experience. Additionally, the subtle feel of the Bobagum switch ensures a light typing feel without resonant sound, making it suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched and mellow typing sound, the KTT Kang White linear switch is the perfect fit. With a slightly lower bottom out force of 58 grams, the Kang White switch offers an exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch. The self-lubricating material of the Kang White results in an unparalleled smoothness when typing. Furthermore, the neutral sound profile of the Kang White switch makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch depends on your personal preferences and requirements. If you prioritize tactility, nearly silent sound, and a subtle typing feel, the Bobagum switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a low-pitched and mellow typing sound with unparalleled smoothness, the Kang White switch is the better choice. Consider your typing style, environment, and desired sound profile when making your decision.
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