Gazzew Bobagum vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Light Tactile. On one hand, the Bobagum switch stands out for its redefined smoothness and unique tactility. With its almost "matte" feel, these bubblegum-colored switches provide a sensation unlike any other, offering a level of smoothness that cannot be compared to the polished glide of ice-skating or the texture of unlubed switches. Additionally, typing on the Bobagum switches produces a nearly silent sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock is praised for its gentle tactility, serving as a refreshing alternative to the sharper tactile switches commonly found on the market. Typing on the Light Tactile switch delivers an angelic tactility, accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. Categorized as "Neutral," "Mild," and "Polished," these switches offer a more subtle tactile experience. 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
52g
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 Light Tactile offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," provides a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In comparison, the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. The polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it particularly advantageous for switches with RGB lighting. While both housing materials contribute to a pleasing auditory experience, the Bobagum's Gazzew blend delivers a softer and more mellow tone, while the Light Tactile's polycarbonate produces a brighter and higher-pitched sound.
Moving to the bottom housings, the Gazzew Bobagum utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend material, which again delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile makes use of nylon, a classic switch housing material. The nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its relatively softer composition. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Hence, the Bobagum's Gazzew blend bottom housing is likely to provide a gentler and more subdued auditory experience, while the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and more resonant sound when typing.
Although they differ in materials, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down a key, while the top housing influences the sound when you release the key. Hence, even though the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Light Tactile feature different housing materials for the top and bottom, they both offer a balanced auditory experience. The Bobagum's Gazzew blend and the Light Tactile's housing materials each contribute to a distinct sound signature, ensuring that users can enjoy similar results with these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Bobagum has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams, whereas the Light Tactile requires slightly more force at 52 grams. This means that the Bobagum switch will be more sensitive and easier to activate with a lighter touch. On the other hand, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Bobagum requiring 62 grams and the Light Tactile slightly higher at 67 grams. This indicates that both switches provide a similar level of satisfaction and feedback when fully pressed.
Considering weight as a factor, the Bobagum can be considered lighter in terms of actuation force, allowing for longer typing periods without fatigue. This makes it a great choice for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Light Tactile offers a heavier push feel with its slightly higher actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience. This option would be ideal for individuals who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback.
While the actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches differ, they both fall within the medium to medium-heavy range. Therefore, regardless of the preference for a lighter or heavier switch, both the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch will provide satisfying and reliable results for typing enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Light Tactile switch is slightly longer than the Bobagum switch. The traditional travel distance for switches is 4.0 mm, making the Light Tactile switch closer to this standard. However, the Bobagum switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which some gamers may prefer for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Light Tactile switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 switch offers a nearly silent profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch has a more neutral sound profile. It falls in the middle ground, neither overly loud nor completely silent. It is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use these switches at home or work. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch is known for its unparalleled tactility. It offers a smooth and almost "matte" feel, different from the polished glide of ice-skating or the texture of unlubed switches. This unique feel provides a gentle resistance, allowing for a light typing experience. Additionally, the sound signature of the Bobagum switch is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch is described as mild and polished. It provides a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The switch has a sleek and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, the Gazzew Bobagum and Durock Light Tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bobagum switch provides a nearly silent sound profile and a unique, smooth tactility. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch has a more neutral sound profile and offers a gentler typing experience with a polished finish. Both switches are suitable for different preferences and intended uses. If you are looking for a switch with a softer sound, smoothness, and unparalleled tactility, the Bobagum switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a more neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel, the Light Tactile switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and almost "matte" feel with unparalleled tactility, along with a nearly silent sound profile, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, which provides a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch is the better choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches provide a pleasant typing experience. While the Bobagum offers a muted sound profile and a subtle feel, the Light Tactile has a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and typing feel.
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