Gazzew Bobagum vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and Durock Koala offer unique experiences for users looking for different typing feels. The Bobagum, a linear switch, stands out for its smoothness and almost 'matte' feel, providing an unparalleled tactility with a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the Koala, a tactile switch, strikes a balance between a pronounced bump and a not-too-loud sound profile, making it a perfect middle ground for those who enjoy a bit of feedback without being overly tactile. Both switches have their own distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Koala both play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of the switches. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for its softness and ability to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Koala utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Bobagum's top housing emphasizes a softer and more mellow sound, the Koala's polycarbonate top housing offers a more distinct and clear sound, making it suitable for those who prefer a sharper typing experience.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Bobagum and the Koala differ in material composition as well. The Bobagum boasts a Gazzew blend bottom housing, similar to its top housing, contributing to a rich and deep sound profile. In comparison, the Koala incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The use of nylon in the Koala's bottom housing enhances the typing experience by absorbing more sound and producing a rounder sound profile, contrasting with the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
Although the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Koala offer distinct sound profiles, the impact of each material can be felt differently during typing. The Bobagum's split between a softer Gazzew blend top housing and bottom housing allows for a balanced sound experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release. Similarly, the Koala's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing feel, emphasizing a crisp and resonant sound on keypresses while delivering a fuller sound during bottom-out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it is evident that the Bobagum is lighter in terms of actuation force at 46 grams compared to the Koala which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Bobagum is heavier in terms of bottom out force at 62 grams compared to the Koala which has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. These differences in force can result in varying typing experiences for users. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Bobagum, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Koala. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Durock Koala tactile switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The Bobagum offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Koala provides a bit more depth and feedback with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 characterized by a muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound with a hint of resonance, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Koala switch also falls under the category of neutral switches, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. It's important to note that the sound produced by these switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bobagum linear switch delivers a subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance, offering a light and quiet key press without a resonant sound signature. In contrast, the Durock Koala tactile switch provides a polished and accented feel, combining smooth key travel with a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming. Additionally, the Koala switch is described as being stepped, giving it a two-stage tactile feedback that is not as sharp as some other tactile switches. It's worth mentioning that the Bobagum switch's near-matte smoothness sets it apart in terms of feel.
Overall, while the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer different sound and feel experiences, both switches excel in providing a unique typing experience. The Bobagum switch stands out for its almost 'matte' smoothness and near-silent sound profile, ideal for those looking for a tactile switch with a softer touch. On the other hand, the Koala switch strikes a balance between pronounced tactility and a low-pitched sound, making it a versatile option for users who prefer a bit more feedback in their keystrokes. Whether choosing the Bobagum or Koala, users can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider your priorities in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a nearly silent sound profile and a medium bottom out force, the Bobagum switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a pronounced bump in your keystrokes without an overly loud noise level and don't mind a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Koala switch could be more up your alley. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to what type of typing experience you're looking for. Happy typing!
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