Gazzew Bobagum vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Mannan Pipefish. The Bobagum is best known for its unparalleled tactility and smoothness, offering a unique typing experience with its almost 'matte' feel. Typing on these bubblegum-colored switches is nearly silent, providing a muted and subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch is all about effortless and enjoyable typing. It features smooth linear action, a lengthened spring, and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, ensuring a comfortable and precise experience. This switch is perfect for casual typists looking for a strain-free keyboarding journey. While these generalities can give you an idea of what each switch has to offer, let's dive in a bit deeper to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Mannan Pipefish are quite different. The Bobagum utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housing. This blend, often known as "boba plastic," is soft and contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish boasts a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties.

While the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Mannan Pipefish differ in their housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles. The Gazzew Bobagum's Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Mannan Pipefish generates a sharper and crisper sound. These differences highlight the impact of different materials on the overall sound experience. However, if one seeks similar results, both switches possess properties that contribute to a rounded sound. The softness of the Bobagum's Gazzew blend and the sound-absorbing nature of the Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing both contribute to a more dull and round sound.

When it comes to the impact of housing materials, the Bobagum and the Mannan Pipefish adhere to a similar principle. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the Bobagum, with its softness, contributes to the overall sound profile during key presses, just as the nylon bottom housing of the Mannan Pipefish elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Meanwhile, the polycarbonate top housing of the Mannan Pipefish adds to the sound when keys are released. Thus, while the housing materials may differ, both switches offer a comprehensive sound experience depending on the stage of key press.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, some notable differences emerge. The Bobagum switch boasts a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Mannan Pipefish's lighter 37 grams. This means that the Bobagum requires a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bobagum is again heavier with 62 grams, whereas the Mannan Pipefish only requires 45 grams for a full press down. This indicates that the Bobagum provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Mannan Pipefish offers a lighter touch.

For those who prefer a lighter switch, such as those inclined towards longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, the Mannan Pipefish might be the ideal choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience, with a stronger push feel, would likely opt for the Bobagum switch.

It is worth noting that both switches provide varying degrees of actuation and bottom out forces. Therefore, if a user desires similar results, they can choose either switch depending on whether they prefer lighter or heavier forces. By considering the weight factor, users can make an informed decision based on their specific preferences and requirements.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mannan Pipefish has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Mannan Pipefish has the longer travel distance of the two. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Pipefish falls into the more traditional range, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Bobagum with its shorter 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who prefer a more responsive keystroke, which is favored by gamers who require faster response times. It ultimately boils down to personal preference, with the shorter travel distance offering a quicker and potentially more satisfying experience, while the longer travel distance provides a deeper and potentially more substantial feel when typing. Regardless of the choice made, both switches will deliver satisfying results, albeit with different nuances in their travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum switch is known for its muted sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. The bubblegum-colored Bobagum switches create a nearly silent typing experience, making them ideal for environments where noise may be a concern. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level, not too loud or too quiet. The Mannan Pipefish switches are suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and can be used in both home and work settings. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Gazzew Bobagum switch is known for its unique smoothness with a subtle tactile feel. The switches have a matte texture that offers a one-of-a-kind tactile experience. Although they are not as polished or slippery as ice-skating, they still provide an unrivaled level of smoothness. The Bobagum switches have a gentle resistance that is not too heavy but still provides a satisfying typing feel. Additionally, the sound signature of the Bobagum switches is not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces.

In contrast, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is described as easy-to-press with a polished feel. These switches offer a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The easy-to-press nature of the Mannan Pipefish switches means that they require minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. The light actuation force also helps reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, providing a low-impact typing feel. Overall, the Mannan Pipefish switches enhance the typing experience by offering a responsive and comfortable feel.

Taking into account the available information, the Gazzew Bobagum and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bobagum switches provide a muted sound, while the Mannan Pipefish switches have a neutral sound. In terms of feel, the Bobagum switches offer a smooth and tactile experience with a subtle resistance, while the Mannan Pipefish switches are easy-to-press with a polished feel. These switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, and it's important to consider factors such as desired sound, typing feel, and the specific use case when choosing between the two. However, it is worth noting that if you are seeking a smooth and comfortable typing experience, both switches are capable of delivering similar results.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a medium bottom out force and a unique "matte" smoothness, along with a nearly silent sound profile, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is the right choice for you. These switches offer unparalleled tactility and a subdued typing experience, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the way to go. With its easy-to-press action, lengthened spring, and light actuation force, these switches provide a strain-free and comfortable typing journey. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches ensures a sleek and refined feel. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

Learn more