Gazzew Bobagum vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, you'll find that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Bobagum switch stands out for its smoothness and unparalleled tactility, providing a matte feel that sets it apart from traditional linear switches. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple V3 switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a delightful typing experience. While the Bobagum switch boasts a nearly silent sound profile, the Lavender Purple Pro switch is characterized by its bouncy and snappy feel. 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
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, it is evident that they offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different plastic blends. The Gazzew Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings deliver a rich and deep sound profile, thanks to the softness of the plastic blend. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Similarly, the Bobagum's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gazzew Bobagum and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offer unique sound profiles that appeal to different preferences. The Gazzew Bobagum's use of a proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housings results in a consistent rich and deep sound profile across the entire switch. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro's combination of a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom housing splits the qualities of each material, impacting the sound differently when pressing down on a key versus letting go of it. This diversity in sound profiles allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their specific preferences and typing style.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew Bobagum and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing experience. The Gazzew Bobagum's use of a proprietary plastic blend offers a consistent rich and deep sound profile throughout, appealing to those who prefer a softer and more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a stiffer and more precise typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose the housing material that best suits their typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, their actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience. The Bobagum has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 45 grams, making the Bobagum slightly more resistant to accidental keystrokes. However, the bottom out force of the Bobagum at 62 grams is heavier than the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Generally, the Bobagum would be preferred by those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Both switches offer a medium to medium-light weight profile, which means that users can still expect a relatively similar typing experience in terms of force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - the Bobagum would provide a slightly quicker response, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would offer a slightly deeper key press. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so either option would yield comparable results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 offers a muted and nearly silent typing experience, creating a softer and more subdued sound compared to traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a higher-pitched sound profile, adding a bit of character to the typing experience. Both switches offer unique auditory qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Bobagum leaning towards a quieter operation while the Lavender Purple Pro adds a touch of vibrancy with its sound.
When it comes to feel, the Bobagum provides a subtle and smooth keystroke, with a tactile response that's not overpowering but still noticeable. The switch offers a gentle resistance that is pleasant for extended typing sessions, along with a quiet and refined feel. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers an accented tactile bump, providing a notable amount of tactility without being overly sharp or scratchy. Additionally, the bouncy and snappy nature of the keys, paired with their polished finish, gives a lively and responsive typing experience that is both satisfying and engaging.
Taking into account the sound and feel of both switches, it is clear that the Gazzew Bobagum and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Bobagum excels in providing a silent and smooth typing experience with subtle tactility, the Lavender Purple Pro switch stands out with its accented tactile feedback and lively key response. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether the user values a quieter sound profile and gentle keystrokes or prefers a more tactile and vibrant typing experience. Regardless of the decision, both switches offer unique qualities that would enhance any mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch or the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and almost silent typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Bobagum may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a satisfying tactile bump, a higher-pitched sound profile, and a lighter bottom out force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro could be more suited to your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so be sure to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, your choice between the Bobagum and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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