Gazzew Bobagum vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and Keygeek Keygeek Raw both offer unique characteristics worth exploring. The Bobagum switch is praised for its smoothness and tactile feel, providing a quiet typing experience with its bubblegum-colored design. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switch distinguishes itself with a blend of materials that create a creamy yet lightweight switch, perfect for enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience. While the Bobagum is categorized as 'Muted' and 'Subtle', the Keygeek Raw falls into the categories of 'Textured', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches both offer unique properties that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The Gazzew Bobagum features a proprietary plastic blend, known as "boba plastic," in both the top and bottom housing. This material is praised for its softness and ability to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switches utilize a Nylon & UPE blend for the top housing and a UMPE & Si blend for the bottom housing, both exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. These materials are designed to provide a distinct sound profile and feel when actuating the switch.
In terms of similarities, both the Gazzew Bobagum and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches use proprietary plastic blends for their housing materials. While the specific blends may differ, they are both engineered to enhance the sound profile and feel of the switch. The softness of the boba plastic in the Bobagum and the unique Nylon & UPE blend in the Keygeek Raw switches aim to create a more enjoyable typing experience for users. Additionally, the housing materials of both switches have been carefully chosen to optimize sound and tactile feedback, ensuring a satisfying keystroke with each press.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the combination of materials used for the top and bottom housing. The Gazzew Bobagum utilizes the same proprietary plastic blend for both the top and bottom housing, which means the switch offers a consistent sound profile and feel throughout the actuation process. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw switches feature different materials for the top and bottom housing, allowing for a more nuanced typing experience. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer unique housing materials that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, we see some differences. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57.5 grams, also falling into the medium category. In terms of weight, the Bobagum is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Keygeek Raw is heavier. This difference in weight may appeal to different preferences, with lighter switches being favored for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a medium level of resistance, with the specific weight variations catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, we can see that the Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Keygeek Raw has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Keygeek Raw has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Bobagum. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker key presses, the Keygeek Raw would be the better option. However, if you prefer a bit more depth and tactility in your key presses, the Bobagum with its slightly longer travel distance would be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, providing a balance between speed and feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is known for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a neutral sound, with a moderate level of noise that is suitable for various environments. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gazzew Bobagum switch is praised for its subtle tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, offering a unique matte feel that sets it apart. In comparison, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switch provides a slightly textured feel out of the box, appealing to users who appreciate a more frictional typing experience. Additionally, the Keygeek Raw switch features a mild typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, catering to a wide range of users.
Overall, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch stands out for its unparalleled tactility and almost silent sound profile, making it ideal for those who value a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a creamy yet lightweight feel with a slightly textured touch, perfect for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and can deliver satisfying typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum and Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switches, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a unique tactile feel and almost silent typing experience, the Bobagum may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight and slightly textured switch that serves as a good starting point for customization, the Keygeek Raw could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and customization options.
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