Gazzew Bobagum vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, both offer unique advantages to enhance your typing experience. The Bobagum is celebrated for its unmatched smoothness and bubblegum-colored appearance, providing a tactile sensation unlike any other with a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch offers a quiet and highly tactile typing experience, distinguished by a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. While the Bobagum is categorized as 'Muted' and 'Subtle', the Silent Grey switch's categorization is not specified. Each switch brings its own set of benefits to the table, making it a matter of personal preference when selecting the best switch for your keyboard. 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
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 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
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 housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Silent Grey switches each have their own unique characteristics. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend plastic for both the top and bottom housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Silent Grey utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to the softer Gazzew blend plastic used in the Bobagum.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Bobagum and the Silent Grey differ once again. The Bobagum uses its proprietary Gazzew blend plastic for the bottom housing, contributing to the rich and deep sound profile of the switch. Conversely, the Silent Grey features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to the Gazzew blend plastic used in the Bobagum.
While the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Outemu Silent Grey switches are different, both switches aim to enhance the overall sound profile and typing experience for users. The Gazzew blend plastic used in the Bobagum provides a soft and deep sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon used in the Silent Grey create a sharper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound characteristics and typing feel. Whether opting for the softer Gazzew blend plastic in the Bobagum or the stiffer polycarbonate and nylon in the Silent Grey, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have medium to medium-heavy bottom out forces, with the Bobagum requiring 62 grams and the Silent Grey needing 65 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Bobagum would be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience may lean towards the Silent Grey for its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. In terms of weight, the Bobagum is lighter overall compared to the Silent Grey, providing a different typing feel for users to consider. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that the Silent Grey has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Bobagum's 3.6 mm. The Bobagum falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quicker response times. On the other hand, the Silent Grey offers a deeper keypress, which some may find more satisfying. Both switches provide different typing experiences due to their varying travel distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, more responsive keystroke or a longer, more satisfying one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Silent Grey 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 experience, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those seeking a silent typing experience. Both switches prioritize silence, with the Bobagum having a more muted sound profile, while the Silent Grey is designed to minimize typing noise.
In terms of feel, the Bobagum linear switch provides a unique tactile experience with an almost matte smoothness that offers unparalleled tactility. This switch is not only smooth but also delivers a satisfying feel that is gentle yet distinct. While information on the feel of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is not provided, we can infer that it offers a highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. Both switches are designed to offer a tactile feel, with the Bobagum providing a unique experience with its matte smoothness and the Silent Grey emphasizing a pronounced bump for tactile feedback.
Overall, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer different but equally noteworthy qualities. The Bobagum excels in providing a smooth and almost 'matte' tactile experience with a nearly silent sound profile, making it a great choice for those looking for a unique and satisfying typing experience. Meanwhile, the Silent Grey switch focuses on quiet operation with a highly tactile typing experience, perfect for users seeking a silent yet satisfying switch. Depending on your preference for tactility and sound, both switches offer excellent options for different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a smooth, almost 'matte' feel with unparalleled tactility and a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and value a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, the Silent Grey switch could be the perfect fit. Remember to also take into account the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and requirements for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
