Gazzew Bobagum vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Bobagum redefines smoothness with a unique tactility that provides a silent typing experience, categorized as 'Muted' and 'Subtle'. On the other hand, the Mini i offers gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, ideal for quiet professional settings, and it is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Snappy', 'Subtle', and 'Stepped'. Each switch caters to specific needs and preferences, but to truly decide on the best switch for you, it's important to delve deeper beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing and the Gateron Mini i's nylon top housing both aim to achieve a rich and deep sound profile, albeit through different means. The Bobagum utilizes a soft plastic blend known as "boba plastic" to deliver its sound profile, while the Mini i relies on nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, with the Bobagum's blend offering a potentially richer tone due to its specific composition.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Bobagum and Mini i switches also play a crucial role in the overall sound profile. Both switches feature a proprietary plastic blend in the bottom housing, with the Bobagum using its "boba plastic" and the Mini i incorporating nylon in this component. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, contributing to the overall typing experience. The softness and sound-absorbing properties of the materials used in the bottom housing help create a duller and rounder sound for both switches.
In essence, while the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron Mini i utilize different housing materials for both the top and bottom components, they ultimately aim to achieve a similar result in sound profile. The softer plastics used in both switches absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller tonality when typing. The differences between the specific materials used may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel, but overall, users can expect a comparable experience in terms of the rich and deep sound produced by these switches.
Weight
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces. The Bobagum has a medium actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a balance between a light touch and a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Those who favor a lighter touch may opt for the Mini i, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might lean towards the Bobagum. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences due to their differences in actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among users.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. The Bobagum has a slightly longer travel distance than the Mini i, which may result in a slightly different typing or gaming experience. Gamers may prefer the Bobagum for its slightly longer travel distance, as it can provide a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Mini i's shorter travel distance may appeal to those who prioritize faster response times. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00.
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 is best characterized by its muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular clacky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, with a moderate level of sound that is suitable for various environments. Both switches provide a sound that is not overly disruptive, making them suitable choices for shared spaces or office settings.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Bobagum linear switch is known for its subtle and smooth typing experience, offering a unique tactility that sets it apart from other switches. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press typing feel, with a mild actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but with different characteristics that cater to individual preferences in terms of key feel.
Overall, while the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch have distinct sound and feel qualities, they both provide a satisfying typing experience with their own unique attributes. Whether you prefer a quieter and smoother typing feel or a bouncier and easy-to-press sensation, both switches offer qualities that are well-suited for various typing preferences. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a medium bottom out force and a smooth, almost 'matte' feel with near-silent typing, the Bobagum may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and gentle tactility with a fairly muted sound profile, the Mini i could be more suited to your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to what type of typing experience you are looking for. Whether it's gentle resistance and subtle feedback with the Bobagum or a bouncy, easy-to-press sensation with the Mini i, choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and environment.
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