Gazzew Bobagum vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Blue. The Gazzew Bobagum is a linear switch that is best known for its smoothness and unique tactility. Described as having a 'matte' feel, these switches offer a quiet typing experience with a bubblegum-colored aesthetic. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that is characterized by its tactile feedback and audible click sound. While the Bobagum falls under the categories of 'Muted' and 'Subtle', the Blue switch is not specifically categorized. If you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Bobagum may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you enjoy the satisfying click sound and tactile feedback while typing, the Outemu Blue switch could be more suited to your preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and Outemu Blue switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for its softness and ability to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Blue switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While the Bobagum's top housing focuses on a softer sound experience, the Blue switch emphasizes clarity and resonance, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend offers a rich and deep sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer properties. The Bobagum's bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch, emphasizing a softer and more rounded sound compared to the Blue switch's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller tone.
While the Gazzew Bobagum and Outemu Blue switches have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the qualities of each material impact the overall sound profile of the switch differently. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the Bobagum focusing on a softer and more rounded sound, while the Blue switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound experience. The top housing, on the other hand, influences the sound when a key is released, highlighting the difference between the Bobagum's rich and deep sound profile and the Blue switch's sharper and crisper tones.
Weight
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch's 50 grams. However, the Bobagum also has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the Blue switch is unknown. This means that the Bobagum will provide a lighter initial typing experience but a heavier feel when bottoming out, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch's actuation force is slightly heavier, which may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bobagum linear switch. The Bobagum switch's 3.6 mm travel distance would provide a slightly quicker response time compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Blue switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Bobagum switch, due to its shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, the longer travel distance of the Outemu Blue switch may be more appealing. Overall, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10.
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
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a unique blend of smoothness and tactility, providing a distinctive typing experience that is not found in other switches. With its almost matte feel and near-silent sound profile, these switches are a great option for those looking for a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch does not have any specific information available regarding its feel or sound qualities. However, based on the information provided, it is safe to assume that the Blue switch will offer a more traditional, clicky typing experience compared to the Bobagum.
Overall, if you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Bobagum linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional and clicky typing feel, the Outemu Blue switch may be more to your liking. Keep in mind that ultimately, the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used. As such, it is important to consider all aspects of your setup when choosing a switch to ensure you get the best typing experience for your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and almost silent typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a unique tactile feel and do not mind a louder typing sound, then the Outemu Blue clicky switch could be the right fit for your preferences. Consider your typing style, noise sensitivity, and desired feel when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best match for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics matter most to you in a keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
