Gazzew Bobagum vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew Bobagum, a linear switch, and the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch. The Bobagum switch is renowned for its smoothness, providing a unique 'matte' feel that sets it apart from other linear switches. Its tactile feedback is exceptional, offering a typing experience that is quiet and almost silent. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch lacks a specific standout feature but provides a more traditional tactile feedback. While the Bobagum is categorized as 'Muted' and 'Subtle', the Ocean switch doesn't fall into any defined category. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Ocean, we can see that both switches feature proprietary blends for their top housing. The Bobagum uses a Gazzew blend that delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, while the Ocean utilizes polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound profile. The Gazzew blend offers a softer sound, ideal for those looking for a smoother typing experience, while the polycarbonate provides a more clear and resonant sound. However, both materials contribute to enhancing the overall sound quality of the switches.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Bobagum features a Gazzew blend that again delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Ocean utilizes nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Gazzew blend. This showcases how the different bottom housing materials can impact the overall sound of a switch, providing users with different typing experiences depending on their preferences.
Overall, the top and bottom housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Ocean offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Gazzew blend in the Bobagum provides a softer and richer sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon in the Ocean create sharper and deeper sounds, respectively. These differences in housing materials can cater to a variety of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts, allowing for a customized typing experience based on sound preference and tactile feedback. Whether soft or crisp, both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, we see some similarities and differences. The Bobagum has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium typing experience. On the other hand, the Ocean has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. When considering weight, the Bobagum may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter actuation force, while the Ocean could appeal to those seeking a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Bobagum leaning towards a lighter touch and the Ocean potentially providing a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bobagum's shorter travel distance can provide a quicker response time, making it a preferred option for gamers. On the other hand, the Ocean's longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying key press for those who enjoy a deeper keystroke. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, so overall, they will provide similar results in terms of typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Ocean 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 offers a muted typing experience, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to other mechanical switches. This makes it ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound quality is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bobagum provides a unique tactile experience with a subtle resistance that is not too heavy but still gives a satisfying typing feel. The sound signature of the Bobagum is also described as non-resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces where loud typing noises can be disruptive. As for the Outemu Ocean switch, the information on its feel is unavailable, so it's unclear how it compares to the Bobagum in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch excels in offering a smooth and almost matte-like typing experience with a nearly silent sound profile, making it a great option for those seeking a quiet and tactile typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch are unknown in terms of sound and feel, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results depending on the user's personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize smoothness and enjoy a unique tactile experience with a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an undefined bottom out force and are open to exploring a different kind of typing experience, the Ocean switch could be worth considering. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for key feel, sound, and typing experience. Choose the switch that best aligns with what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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