Gazzew Bobagum vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Lupine offer distinct features and experiences. The Bobagum is renowned for its unmatched smoothness and unique tactile sensation that sets it apart from other switches. With a matte-like texture and a bubblegum color, typing on these switches provides a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the Lupine stands out for its two-stage long springs, delivering a consistent weight distribution on the press and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, the Lupine offers a classic clacky sound profile. While these general descriptions provide an overview, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock Lupine switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles. The Gazzew Bobagum utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, commonly referred to as "boba plastic," which provides a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Durock Lupine employs a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. While both top housings contribute to the sound when releasing a key, they create different tonal characteristics.
Regarding the bottom housing, the Gazzew Bobagum employs the same proprietary Gazzew blend, known as "boba plastic," as its bottom housing, which also brings about a rich and deep sound due to its softness. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon enables it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Thus, each bottom housing material contributes to the overall sound profile of the switches, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel.
When using switches with different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and the tactile feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing has a more prominent impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound experiences based on their respective housing materials, allowing users to choose according to their preferred sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are both similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Bobagum is 46 grams, while the Lupine's actuation force remains unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing them in the medium force range.
Considering weight is a crucial factor for keyboard enthusiasts, as it directly affects the typing experience. Those who prefer lighter switches may appreciate the Bobagum, as its actuation force is on the lighter side. This lightness allows for extended typing periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for switches with heavier forces. While the actuation force of the Lupine is unknown, it shares the same bottom out force as the Bobagum, which means it could potentially offer a similar typing experience in terms of resistance.
In summary, the Bobagum boasts a known actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Lupine's actuation force information is unavailable. Both switches share the same bottom out force and fall into the medium force range. The individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience will ultimately determine which switch is the better fit for their needs.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Lupine is the longer option compared to the Bobagum. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular. Gamers especially tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If you prioritize a more responsive feel, the Bobagum's shorter travel distance may be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with more depth and a less abrupt feel, the Lupine's slightly longer travel distance could be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience you are seeking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine 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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a unique and almost silent experience. These switches have a muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing sound compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch has a classic clacky sound profile. It produces a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, the Lupine switch would be a better choice.
When it comes to feel, the Bobagum switch provides an unparalleled tactility with its smooth and matte feel. While it does not have the polished glide of ice-skating or the texture of unlubed switches, it offers a gentle resistance that maintains a light typing feel. The sound signature of the Bobagum switch is also not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Lupine switch offers a more mild and approachable typing experience. It has a gentle and safe middle-ground feel that most users will find comfortable. Additionally, the Lupine switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gazzew Bobagum switch excels in providing a nearly silent sound profile and a unique tactile experience with its smooth and matte feel. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch offers a classic clacky sound profile and a comfortable and approachable typing experience with its mild feel and polished finish. While both switches have their own distinctive qualities, they are suitable for different preferences. If you prefer a quieter typing experience and a unique tactility, the Bobagum switch would be the ideal choice. If you enjoy a classic clacky sound and a comfortable middle-ground typing experience, the Lupine switch would be a great option. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In summary, when making a decision between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prioritize smoothness and a unique tactility, the Bobagum switches would be the way to go. These switches offer a matte-like feel that sets them apart, along with nearly silent typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more powerful upward movement and a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine switches are the better choice. Additionally, the Lupine switches have a neutral sound profile overall, but also offer a high-pitched option for those who enjoy a sharper sound. In terms of feel, the Bobagum switches have a subtle resistance and a suitable sound signature for shared spaces. Meanwhile, the Lupine switches provide a mild typing experience with qualities that stand in a safe middle-ground zone, and also offer a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for smoothness, sound, and feel.
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