Gazzew Bobagum vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gazzew Bobagum and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, two remarkable mechanical keyboard switches with distinctive characteristics. The Bobagum switch boasts an unparalleled tactility that sets it apart, offering a smoothness akin to ice-skating while providing a unique matte feel. Typing on these bubblegum-colored switches guarantees a nearly silent sound profile, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a subtle and muted experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch captivates with its soft and seductive tactility, providing a gentle typing experience. With its neutral sound profile, this switch appeals to those who prefer a polished and thocky feel. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in their housing materials. The Bobagum utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housings, while the Meteor Orange employs nylon for both. The Gazzew blend, also known as "boba plastic," is praised for its softness, which contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. Therefore, the Bobagum's Gazzew blend top and bottom housings may provide a distinct sound experience compared to the Meteor Orange's nylon housings.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Gazzew Bobagum and SP-Star Meteor Orange share similar characteristics. Both the Gazzew blend and nylon contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to their softness. This allows for a more satisfying typing experience, as the housings absorb more sound and reduce any potential harshness or hollowness. While the proprietary Gazzew blend of the Bobagum provides its own unique qualities, the nylon used in the Meteor Orange offers comparable results in terms of sound profile and tactile feel.
On the other hand, the top housings of the Gazzew Bobagum and SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in material composition. The Gazzew blend top housing is specifically designed to deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange, being a relatively softer plastic, also absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound when keys are released. Therefore, when releasing a key, the Gazzew Bobagum may provide a distinctive sound experience compared to the Meteor Orange due to the different characteristics of their respective top housings.
In conclusion, while the Gazzew Bobagum and SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in their housing materials, they share similarities in terms of the qualities these materials bring to the switches. Both the Gazzew blend and nylon contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on these switches a satisfying experience. However, the Gazzew blend top housing of the Bobagum and the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange provide distinct sound experiences when keys are released. Thus, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on the preference for either the unique sound profile delivered by the Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend or the more rounded sound of the Meteor Orange's nylon housing.
Weight
When considering the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different options for users. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium resistance. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange's actuation force is unknown, but its bottom out force is 57 grams, which falls into the medium-light category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Meteor Orange may be the better choice as it offers a slightly lower bottom out force. This allows for a more effortless keystroke, reducing fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming sessions. Additionally, the lighter actuation force, although unspecified, is likely to provide a smooth and swift typing experience.
However, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the Bobagum's higher bottom out force of 62 grams may be more suitable. This heavier force provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and can give a satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose depends on individual preferences. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Meteor Orange, while those seeking a more substantial push feel may opt for the Bobagum. However, it is worth mentioning that both switches offer medium resistance, so even though their specific forces may differ, the overall results may be quite similar.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have different travel distances. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Meteor Orange has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bobagum.
In terms of usage, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, providing a standard experience. On the other hand, the Bobagum's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, which can be advantageous in gaming scenarios.
However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt for their liking. In such cases, the longer travel distance of 4 mm offered by the Meteor Orange switch may be favored. The extra depth provided by the longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying key pressing experience, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bobagum and the Meteor Orange will depend on personal preference and individual requirements. While the Bobagum offers a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the Meteor Orange provides a longer travel distance for a more substantial key pressing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 linear switch offers a unique experience with a nearly silent profile. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. While it doesn't have the same level of silence as the Bobagum, it still offers a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch has a thocky sound characteristic, which means it produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. The sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch stands out with its unique smoothness. It offers a subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance that maintains a light feel. The feel is not quite as feather-light as some other switches, but it still provides a satisfying typing experience. The Meteor Orange tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. It falls in the safe, middle-ground zone, providing a comfortable typing feel. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This adds to the sleekness of the typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer different but equally appealing qualities. The Bobagum stands out with its unique matte-like smoothness and unmatched tactility. It provides a nearly silent sound profile and a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange offers a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the qualities they desire. If you are looking for a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, the Meteor Orange switch can provide a comparable result with its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile.
Conclusion
In closing, if you value a switch with a medium bottom out force and a unique, smooth tactility, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a matte-like feel and an unparalleled level of smoothness. Additionally, the Bobagum switches provide a nearly silent sound profile, making them perfect for quiet environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a soft, seductive tactility, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be the better option. These switches offer a gentle typing experience and a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. Furthermore, the Meteor Orange switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and feel. Whichever switch you choose, both the Bobagum and Meteor Orange switches provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences.