Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, especially when comparing the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX KD200, both of which are linear switches. The Bobagum switches offer an exceptional tactile experience with a unique 'matte' feel that strikes a balance between a smooth glide and a textured touch, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience due to their nearly silent sound profile. In contrast, the HMX KD200 stands out in the realm of linear switches by being the clackiest option in the HMX Film switch family, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing, even though it's still categorized as linear. While the Bobagum's subtle and muted characteristics cater to those seeking tranquility during their typing sessions, the KD200 attracts users who appreciate a bit more auditory excitement. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX KD200 switches offer distinct attributes, yet they both contribute to elevated sound profiles due to their unique characteristics. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housings, known informally as "boba plastic." This material is specifically designed to be softer, which enhances its ability to produce a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the KD200 utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a classic choice for switch materials. Despite nylon's traditional status, it shares a similar quality with the Gazzew blend, as it too is relatively soft and absorbs sound effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing.
When comparing these two sets of materials, the primary difference lies in their composition and branding. While the Bobagum's proprietary blend is tailored explicitly for achieving unique sound characteristics, nylon in the KD200 serves as a time-tested material favored by keyboard enthusiasts for its consistent performance. Both switches are designed to dampen sound effectively, hence, even though the materials differ, typists can expect similarly pleasing results in terms of auditory feedback. The Bobagum’s boba plastic and the KD200's nylon will both provide a duller and rounder sound, effectively creating a satisfying typing experience across both switches.
Another aspect to consider is how the differences in housing materials can influence the overall switch experience. The Bobagum’s proprietary blend may lend a nuanced signature tone to the top housing, making it particularly impactful when releasing a key. Conversely, the nylon of the KD200 will maintain its own distinct sound quality while allowing for a similar response. This means that even if each switch has varied materials, players will still detect a comparable sensory feedback, influenced by the bottom housing's properties during key travel. Essentially, while the specifics of the materials are unique, both switches are engineered to yield results that can satisfy those seeking a rich auditory experience in their typing, ensuring that the differences lead to aesthetic variety rather than a significant disparity in performance.
Weight
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch features an unknown actuation force but has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is classified as medium-light. In contrast, the HMX KD200 linear switch boasts an actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as light. When comparing these two switches, the KD200 clearly has a more defined actuation force, making it lighter and likely more suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Meanwhile, the Bobagum, with its unknown actuation force yet heavier bottom out force, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while the actuation forces differ in terms of clarity and measure, the Bobagum is the heavier switch in terms of bottoming out, while the KD200 is lighter and potentially provides a faster response for users looking for quick keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, the Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KD200 measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter option, albeit marginally. A shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gamers seeking quick response times, as it allows for faster key actuation. In contrast, the Bobagum offers a bit more depth, which some users might prefer for a more satisfying keystroke experience. Ultimately, if speed and responsiveness are your priorities, the KD200's travel distance may be preferable. Conversely, if you value a deeper feel with a bit more authority when typing, the Bobagum would be the better choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 stands out with its nearly silent profile, creating a muted typing experience that minimizes the noise often associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it an excellent choice for shared workspaces or environments where quiet typing is appreciated. In contrast, the HMX KD200 is notable for being the clackiest member of its switch family, which suggests it creates a more pronounced auditory feedback. This clacky quality may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound when typing, but it could also be louder in environments where discretion is preferred.
As for the feel, the Bobagum switch exemplifies a unique, almost matte sensation that strikes a balance between smoothness and subtle resistance, offering a gentle typing experience. This subtlety ensures that the switch is not overly feather-light, providing enough feedback for comfortable and effective typing without the sound resonating excessively. Meanwhile, the feeling of the KD200 remains unknown, leaving a gap in comparison regarding tactile feedback. The tactile experience of this switch could very well differ significantly from the smooth and subtle feedback of the Bobagum.
Overall, while the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch excels in creating a muted sound and subtle, pleasing feel, the HMX KD200 promises a clacker sound profile that may be more appealing for those who enjoy a louder typing experience. The different characteristics of sound and feel make each switch suitable for varying preferences and environments, ensuring that newcomers to mechanical keyboards can find a switch that aligns with their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To summarize, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, your decision should ultimately hinge on your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a smooth, muted experience and often find yourself in shared spaces or quiet settings, the Bobagum is an excellent choice with its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, subtle sound profile, and unique matte feel. This switch is specifically tailored for users seeking maximum typing comfort without the distraction of noise—perfect for office environments or late-night gaming sessions where you don’t want to disturb others. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing, or if you thrive on the tactile contrast provided by a slightly lighter switch with exceptional clackiness, you might prefer the HMX KD200. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, this switch allows for faster typing speeds and an engaging sound profile that can enhance your gaming or typing experience. In essence, the choice between these two switches comes down to whether you favor a quieter and more subtle typing experience with the Bobagum, or a livelier, clackier sensation with the KD200. Select the one that best aligns with your personal preferences and your typing environment for optimal enjoyment.
Mentioned in this article
