Gazzew Bobagum vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum, a linear switch, and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, also a linear switch, each offer distinct characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Bobagum stands out for its unparalleled smoothness and unique tactile feel, providing a silent typing experience with its muted and subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, along with a silky typing experience and vibrant RGB illumination thanks to its light diffuser. While both switches have their strengths and appeal, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, it's clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective plastic blends. The Bobagum's Gazzew blend top and bottom housings deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to their softness, while the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. The translucency of polycarbonate in the Lightning Silver V3 also makes it a great option for those who want to take advantage of RGB lighting effects, adding an extra element to the overall aesthetic of the switch.
In terms of functionality, the differences in housing materials between the Bobagum and the Lightning Silver V3 will result in varying tactile experiences for users. The softer Gazzew blend of the Bobagum will likely provide a more cushioned bottom-out sound and feel, while the stiffer polycarbonate of the Lightning Silver V3 will offer a more pronounced and precise typing experience. Interestingly, the top housing material can also play a role in the sound produced when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate of the Lightning Silver V3 likely providing a crisper sound compared to the softer Gazzew blend of the Bobagum.
Overall, while the Bobagum and the Lightning Silver V3 have distinct housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles, they both offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a softer and richer sound profile like that of the Bobagum, or a sharper and crisper sound profile like that of the Lightning Silver V3, both switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch to the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Lightning Silver V3 has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This makes the Lightning Silver V3 slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, but slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Bobagum. Both switches provide a balance between a light typing experience for extended periods and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Bobagum. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quick responsiveness. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Bobagum may be the better option for you. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and how it feels when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is known for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. When it comes to the feel, the Bobagum switch offers a subtle resistance, giving a gentle typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 switch provides a silky smooth typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Overall, the Bobagum switch focuses on smoothness and tactile feel, with a nearly silent sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 switch emphasizes a crisp and clacky sound, along with a silky smooth feel, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Additionally, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard case and keycaps used. Overall, regardless of the choice, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience that is sure to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you value a slightly higher bottom out force and a smooth, almost 'matte' feel with a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lower bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 could be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to what features you prioritize in your ideal typing experience.
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