Gazzew Bobagum vs. Outemu Lime (V3)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Lime. Both switches offer their own unique advantages and characteristics, making it important to understand the key differences between them. The Bobagum is known for its unparalleled smoothness and tactile feel, providing a typing experience unlike any other. Its bubblegum-colored switches offer a nearly silent sound profile, adding to its appeal. On the other hand, the Lime switches are incredibly lightweight and feature an approachable tactility. These switches are perfect for tactile fans who desire a feathery light typing experience. Both switches fall under the 'Muted' and 'Subtle' category, showcasing their quieter operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

Outemu Lime (V3) Tactile

$6.50 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Lime switches have different housing materials that contribute to their distinctive sound profiles. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, affectionately known as "boba plastic," which creates a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Lime utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both materials absorb sound effectively, but the Bobagum's blend may offer a slightly softer and rounder sound compared to the Lime's nylon.

When it comes to their bottom housings, both the Bobagum and the Lime switches use their respective materials to enhance their sound profiles. The Bobagum's bottom housing, like its top housing, is composed of the proprietary Gazzew blend. As a result, the switch delivers a rich and deep sound due to the softness of the material. Similarly, the Lime utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on the switches. Both materials absorb sound well, creating a duller and rounder sound signature.

Although they have different top and bottom housing materials, the impact of each housing material is felt differently when using the switches. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, significantly influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the Bobagum's bottom housing will contribute to the tactile experience when pressing the switch, while the Lime's bottom housing will provide a distinct tactile sensation. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more crucial role in the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the Bobagum's Gazzew blend or the Lime's nylon, the softness of the material in the top housing affects the sound produced when the key is let go.

In summary, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Lime switches have different housing materials that affect their sound profiles. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend creates a rich and deep sound, while the Lime's nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. Both materials have a similar characteristic of sound absorption, albeit with slight differences in softness. Additionally, the impact of the bottom and top housings differs when using the switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing having a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key.

Weight

The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences and typing experiences. The Bobagum switch has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of its weight. On the other hand, the Lime switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams.

For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience and want to reduce fatigue during prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Lime switch would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for easier keystrokes with less effort.

Alternatively, for those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying typing experience, the Bobagum switch with its heavier forces would be preferable. The higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel, which some individuals may find more enjoyable and tactile.

In terms of weight consideration, the Lime switch is lighter compared to the Bobagum switch. This can be advantageous for individuals who prioritize longer typing sessions without experiencing hand fatigue. On the other hand, the Bobagum switch, with its heavier forces, is suitable for those who desire a more robust and solid typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on the individual's personal preference for weight, actuation force, and bottom out force. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, and selecting the appropriate switch will result in a satisfying typing or gaming experience.

Travel distance

The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, indicating a preference for faster response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for quicker input. If you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Lime switch may be the better option. However, it is worth noting that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt. If you prefer a deeper key press, the Bobagum switch with its longer travel distance could be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Lime switches, the Bobagum is best known for its nearly silent sound profile. These switches offer a muted sound, producing softer and quieter keystrokes compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. On the other hand, the Lime switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate level of noise. Like the Bobagum, the Lime switches also have a muted sound, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Bobagum switches redefine smoothness with an almost 'matte' feel. They offer a subtle switch experience with a gentle resistance that is not feather-light but still maintains a light typing feel. The sound signature of the Bobagum switches is also described as not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Lime switches provide a mild typing experience with a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They are also described as feathery, meaning they are exceptionally light to press and require little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Lime switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switches stand out for their smooth and unique tactile feel, offering unparalleled tactility. They provide a nearly silent sound profile and a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switches are lightweight, have an approachable tactility, and are silenced. They offer a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. Both switches have features that make them appealing to different types of users, with the Bobagum focusing on smoothness and tactility, while the Lime emphasizes lightness and approachable tactility. In terms of sound, both switches feature a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to keep in mind that the sound and feel of the switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, by choosing either of these switches, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, with slight variations in their specific qualities.

Conclusion

In closing, if you're looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and unparalleled tactility, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches redefine smoothness and offer a unique 'matte' feel. The Bobagum switches also provide a nearly silent typing experience, making them perfect for those who prefer a quieter keyboard.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a light bottom out force, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be a better fit. These switches offer a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. They are also silenced, ensuring a quieter typing sound.

Ultimately, the decision between the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Lime switch depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, tactility, and typing sound. Whether you prefer a medium bottom out force with unparalleled smoothness and silence or a light bottom out force with a feathery light typing experience, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Lime (V3) Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more