Gazzew Bobagum vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it becomes clear that both offer unique characteristics catered to different preferences. The Bobagum switch is praised for its smoothness and tactile feel, providing a one-of-a-kind typing experience with a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the MX Red switch offers a slightly heavier feel and deeper sound profile, giving typists a robust and satisfying auditory experience. While the Bobagum is categorized as 'Muted' and 'Subtle', the MX Red is labeled as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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 housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Cherry MX Red have some similarities in terms of delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to their softness. Both switches use materials that absorb sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, the Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing are made of a specific plastic blend, referred to as "boba plastic," which sets it apart from the MX Red's nylon housing. The Gazzew blend is unique to the Bobagum switch and is designed to enhance the typing experience with its soft and rich sound profile.
In terms of materials, the Bobagum switch stands out with its proprietary Gazzew blend housing, while the Cherry MX Red uses nylon for both top and bottom housings. The use of nylon in the MX Red provides a classic switch housing material that has been known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both switches aim to deliver a rich sound experience, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in achieving slightly different sound characteristics. The Bobagum's "boba plastic" blend is specifically engineered to enhance the typing sound with its softness, providing a unique sound profile that may differ from the MX Red.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Cherry MX Red contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings offer a unique softness that enhances the sound profile, while the Cherry MX Red's nylon housings provide a classic switch material that absorbs sound for a deeper and fuller sound. While both switches aim to deliver a rich and deep sound profile, the specific choice of housing material can impact the overall typing feel and sound characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Bobagum has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the MX Red's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Bobagum is also higher at 62 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the MX Red is unknown. This makes the Bobagum slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the MX Red for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may gravitate towards the heavier feel of the Bobagum for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Bobagum providing a slightly heavier touch compared to the MX Red.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Cherry MX Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bobagum's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the MX Red's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer more depth. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their distinct travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a shorter travel distance for quicker inputs, the Bobagum may be the better choice for you. In contrast, if you prefer a longer travel distance for a more deliberate key press, the Cherry MX Red may be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 muted and nearly silent typing experience, perfect for those looking for a quieter option. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying auditory feedback when typing. Depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment, users can choose between the more subtle sound of the Bobagum or the textured sound of the MX Red.
Moving on to feel, the Bobagum switch boasts a unique matte feel that offers a smooth and tactile typing experience without the need for lubrication. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its slightly heavier feel and textured sensation, providing a different tactile feedback for users who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. Whether you prefer the subtle resistance of the Bobagum or the textured feel of the MX Red, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Bobagum provides a muted sound profile and a smooth tactile feel, the MX Red delivers a thocky sound and a slightly textured sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer quality performance and can deliver similar results based on individual user preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch or the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you should opt for the Bobagum if you prefer a medium bottom out force and value a unique smoothness with a nearly silent sound profile. The Bobagum offers a tactile experience akin to ice-skating on a matte surface, making it a standout choice for those seeking a different typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile and slightly heftier feel, the Cherry MX Red switch might be the better option for you. The MX Red is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a satisfying auditory depth while typing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for smoothness and silence with the Bobagum, or a robust typing experience with a deep sound profile with the MX Red. Consider these factors carefully before making your selection.
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