Gazzew Bobagum vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Maple Leaf 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 linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch. The Bobagum switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness, providing a unique matte feel that sets it apart from traditional linear switches. With a nearly silent sound profile and exceptional tactility, typing on these bubblegum-colored switches offers a one-of-a-kind experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch is known for its tactile feedback, offering a satisfying bump with each key press. While it may not have as much of a distinct feature compared to the Bobagum, the Maple Leaf switch still provides a responsive typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Maple Leaf both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," offers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Similarly, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. While both housing materials aim to enhance the typing experience with their sound profiles, they do so through different means - the Bobagum's blend focuses on softness, while the Maple Leaf's nylon emphasizes sound absorption.
In terms of bottom housing, the Gazzew Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend and the Outemu Maple Leaf's nylon materials continue to showcase their strengths. The Bobagum's bottom housing, like its top housing, delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's nylon bottom housing also promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile through its sound absorption properties. Despite the differences in their composition, both bottom housings aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a unique sound profile that is pleasing to the user.
When considering a switch with different top and bottom housing materials, it is important to note how each material contributes to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This distinction is crucial in understanding how the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Maple Leaf differ in their sound profiles, as the unique qualities of their housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience for users. Ultimately, whether using the Bobagum or the Maple Leaf, users can expect a satisfying sound profile that enhances their typing experience.
Weight
The actuation and bottom out forces of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch differ slightly, with the Bobagum being on the lighter side and the Maple Leaf on the heavier side. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both fall under the medium range, but the Maple Leaf is slightly heavier than the Bobagum. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Bobagum for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Maple Leaf. In either case, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance that falls between the traditional 4.0 mm and the shallower 3.0 mm options. Gamers may prefer the Bobagum for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more responsive feel during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for quicker key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Maple Leaf 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
When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is known for its nearly silent profile, providing a muted typing experience that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, information about the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound profile is unknown. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard they are mounted on and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is often described as having a subtle and smooth feel, offering a unique tactility that sets it apart from other switches. The resistance of the Bobagum switch is gentle yet not feather-light, providing a light typing experience that is suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound signature. As for the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, information regarding its feel is currently unavailable.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch stands out for its smooth and tactile feel, along with its nearly silent sound profile. While the information on the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is limited in this comparison, it is important to consider personal preferences and factors like the keyboard build and keycap selection when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, if seeking a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, opting for the Bobagum switch may provide comparable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a smoother, almost 'matte' feel with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and prioritize tactile feedback over sound profile, the Maple Leaf switch may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize smoothness, sound, and feel in your typing experience.
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