Gazzew Bobagum vs. Cherry MX Orange

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the nuances between options can greatly impact your typing experience, and two noteworthy contenders are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Cherry MX Orange. The Bobagum switches are celebrated for their unique “matte” feel, which strikes a perfect balance between a smooth glide and a slightly textured finish, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a silent typing experience without compromising on tactility. With their muted and subtle sound profile, these bubblegum-colored switches are perfect for quiet environments or long hours of typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, reissued with modern enhancements, pay homage to the original MX Orange switches and cater to enthusiasts who value reliability and classic performance. While their sound characteristics are less defined, they are known for their durability and consistent performance. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and typing context. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$6.50 per 10

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gazzew Bobagum and the Cherry MX Orange switches both utilize materials designed to create a rich auditory experience, yet they differ significantly in their construction. The Bobagum switch features a proprietary Gazzew blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," for both the top and bottom housings. This unique blend aims to optimize sound absorption and vibration dampening, resulting in a sound profile that is rich and deep. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch employs a classic nylon top and bottom housing, known for eliciting a similarly deep and full sound, although it relies on the traditional properties of nylon rather than a proprietary blend. While both switches aim to deliver a satisfying auditory experience, the Gazzew Bobagum may offer a more tailored approach due to its specific material composition, raising questions about the nuances of sound quality between the two.

Examining the individual contributions of the housing materials, both the Bobagum and Cherry MX Orange switches capitalize on softer plastics to create their distinct sound profiles. The softness of the Gazzew blend facilitates a deep sound output through enhanced vibration absorption, similar to the properties of nylon used in the Cherry MX Orange. This comparative softness in both materials results in the notable characteristic of a duller, rounder sound, which enhances the acoustic experience. However, the proprietary nature of the Gazzew blend may allow for variations that could make the Bobagum feel and sound somewhat different compared to the well-established Cherry MX Orange. This difference in manufacturing could lead to subtle variations in how each switch feels under your fingers, even if the overall sound characteristics are congruent.

Ultimately, the differences in housing materials can delineate the user experience despite their similar sound profiles. When a user presses down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing contribute significantly to the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing influences the release sound when the key is lifted. The Gazzew Bobagum, with its proprietary blend, may offer a unique tactile feedback distinct from the standard nylon of the Cherry MX Orange, allowing users to experience different aspects of keying. If both switches share a commitment to enhancing sound, the choice may come down to personal preference for feel and sound quality, as both have their merits rooted in soft, sound-absorbing plastics.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, significant differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Bobagum has an undisclosed actuation force, which makes it challenging to evaluate how it responds during keystrokes, while its bottom out force is set at 55 grams, categorized as medium-light. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange has a clearly defined actuation force of 55 grams and an unspecified bottom out force. This means that the Bobagum may provide a lighter touch for some users since its actuation force is unknown, while the Cherry MX Orange offers a more consistent push feel with its known actuation force. Thus, if the Bobagum's actuation force is indeed lighter, it could be preferable for those who favor extended periods of typing or gaming. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange, with its heavier actuation force, might appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. However, without knowing the actuation force of the Bobagum, it remains unsure whether it offers a truly lighter feel compared to the CMX Orange. Overall, the Bobagum's bottom out force mirrors that of the Cherry MX Orange, but the unknowns in actuation force could lead to varied user experiences.

Travel distance

The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch have different travel distances, with the Bobagum measuring 3.6 mm and the MX Orange at 4 mm. This makes the Bobagum the shorter of the two, appealing to gamers who favor quick response times due to its reduced travel distance. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange offers a longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer deeper key presses. If you're looking for a switch that combines responsiveness with tactile depth, the MX Orange would be the better choice. Overall, the Bobagum's shorter travel distance aligns with modern trends favoring quicker actuation, while the MX Orange caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced key travel experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is characterized by a muted profile that produces a softer and quieter sound compared to traditional mechanical keyboard switches. This design minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an excellent choice for users who seek a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, no specific information is provided for the sound attributes of the Cherry MX Orange switch, making a direct comparison challenging. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound produced by any switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction, keycap materials, and even the typing surface.

In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch is described as having a subtle resistance that offers a gentle and light typing experience. This design results in a type feel that is smooth and pleasant without being overly featherlight. Additionally, the sound signature of the Bobagum does not resonate, making it an ideal option for shared workspaces where noise levels should be kept to a minimum. Meanwhile, there is no available information regarding the feel of the Cherry MX Orange switches, which means we cannot directly compare them for this quality.

In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch stands out with its muted sound and subtle feel, making it a solid choice for users who prioritize a smooth, quiet typing experience. While there is a lack of specific details regarding the Cherry MX Orange's sound and feel qualities, users can generally expect that differences between switches can influence the overall experience. If you're seeking a comfortable and low-noise typing atmosphere, the Bobagum is likely the better option, while the Cherry MX Orange may still offer enjoyable performance, albeit with less defined qualities in this context. For a tailored experience, consider other factors like board and keycap choices alongside the switch type.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a smooth and muted typing experience, the Bobagum would be an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams makes it suitable for long typing sessions while minimizing fatigue, especially in quieter settings where sound can be a concern. The unique matte feel of the Bobagum not only enhances your tactile interactions but also ensures a nearly silent operation, making it ideal for shared workspaces or home offices. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a legacy feel and prefer the characteristics of Cherry MX switches, you might lean towards the MX Orange. While its specific bottom-out force remains unknown, it is known for its quality and enhanced design that meets the nostalgic demands of enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between these switches boils down to your personal typing style, the importance of sound and feel, and your intended usage environment.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

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Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more