Gazzew Bobagum vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron New North Pole V2. The Bobagum switches are best known for their unique smoothness, offering a tactile sensation that is truly one of a kind. With a matte feel that is neither as slippery as ice-skating nor as rough as unlubed switches, these bubblegum-colored switches provide unparalleled tactility. Additionally, they boast a near-silent sound profile, making them perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switches from Gateron are recognized for their crisper typing experience. Unlike their predecessor, they no longer feature a rubber dampener. However, this removal only enhances the typing experience, allowing for a frictionless feel while still maintaining the seamless glide and smoothness that Gateron is known for. Categorized as polished, creamy, and frictionless, these switches offer a different typing sensation compared to the Bobagum switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Bobagum switch features a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, referred to as "boba plastic," which imparts a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 switch utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Moreover, polycarbonate's translucency makes it especially advantageous for the top housing if RGB lighting is desired.
While the housing materials have distinct characteristics, they also share similarities in their sound profiles. Both the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches deliver a satisfying auditory experience. The Bobagum's soft "boba plastic" creates a rich sound, while the polycarbonate in the New North Pole V2 produces a sharper sound. These differences may be attributed to the variation in stiffness between the materials. However, when it comes to the overall sound experience, users can expect similar results in terms of quality and enjoyment from both switches.
One important aspect to consider is the impact of the housing materials on key presses. In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, such as the Bobagum, the qualities of each housing material are divided. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics become more prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a more nuanced and dynamic auditory experience, as each housing contributes uniquely to different stages of the keypress.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches offer distinct housing materials that shape their sound profiles. The Bobagum's proprietary "boba plastic" blend produces a rich and deep sound, while the polycarbonate utilized in the New North Pole V2 creates a sharper and crisper sound. However, despite these differences, users can expect comparable quality and enjoyment from both switches. Moreover, the division of housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch allows for a versatile and nuanced auditory experience, with distinct contributions to the sound during key presses.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have a medium actuation force, with the Bobagum requiring 46 grams and the New North Pole V2 requiring 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that users can expect a similar level of sensitivity and responsiveness when typing on both switches.
However, when it comes to bottoming out, there is a slight difference. The Bobagum has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the New North Pole V2 has a slightly higher bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the New North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier feel when pressing the keys all the way down.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Bobagum, as its actuation force is slightly lighter. This could be ideal for individuals who need to type for longer periods of time, such as when using the keyboard at work or engaging in lengthy gaming sessions.
On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the New North Pole V2. With its slightly higher actuation force, it offers a bit more resistance and a firmer feel when typing.
Overall, while the actuation forces are quite similar between the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron New North Pole V2, the slight difference in bottom out force means that users can expect a slightly lighter typing feel with the Bobagum, while the New North Pole V2 provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have different travel distances. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the New North Pole V2's travel distance of 4 mm. The Bobagum's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as the reduced distance allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the New North Pole V2 with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer distinct experiences in terms of feedback and key feel, catering to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 is best known for its nearly silent profile. These bubblegum-colored switches produce a muted sound, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is unknown, as no specific information is provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gazzew Bobagum switches offer a unique tactile experience. Described as having an "almost 'matte' feel", they redefine smoothness and provide an unparalleled tactility. Although the specific resistance is not mentioned, it is stated that the typing feel is light and suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches are known for their polished and creamy feel. These switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Gateron maintains the seamless glide and smoothness that their users have grown to love, making them virtually frictionless and effortless to type on.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bobagum switches provide a nearly silent sound profile and unique smoothness with their matte-like feel. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switches maintain the seamless glide and smoothness of the Gateron lineup, offering a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. It's worth noting that while the subjective qualities may differ, both switches prioritize smoothness and offer enjoyable typing experiences. Depending on your personal preferences and the other components of your setup, you can achieve similar results with either of these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and almost "matte" feel with unparalleled tactility and a nearly silent sound profile, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is the way to go. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, this switch offers a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel, making it suitable for shared spaces. However, if you prefer a crisper typing experience with a frictionless typing feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is the better choice. Despite the removal of the rubber dampener, this switch retains the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup—seamless glide and smoothness. Additionally, the New North Pole V2 offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless feel, providing a sleek and buttery typing experience. In terms of sound, the Bobagum switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound. On the other hand, the sound profile of the New North Pole V2 is not specified. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preferences for tactility, sound, and typing feel.
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