Gazzew Bobagum vs. Kailh Plum

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Kailh Plum are two excellent options to consider. The Bobagum is a linear switch, while the Plum is a tactile switch, offering different typing experiences. The Bobagum is best known for its unparalleled smoothness with an almost 'matte' feel, providing a unique tactility that sets it apart. Typing on these bubblegum-colored switches results in a nearly silent sound profile, making it perfect for those seeking a muted and subtle switch. On the other hand, the Plum offers a hefty feel without a huge tactile bump, making it incredibly unique among other tactile switches. Unlike most tactile switches where tactility and weightiness go hand in hand, the Plum surprises with a different approach. Its sound profile is neutral and enjoyable, adding to the overall typing experience. However, these are just general pointers, and in order to make the best decision, it's important to dive deeper into the specifics of each switch.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.50 per 10

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Kailh Plum differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profiles they produce. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," is soft and delivers a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Plum's polycarbonate top housing is relatively stiffer, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is advantageous for RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, while the Bobagum offers a softer and more mellow sound experience, the Plum provides a clearer and more resonant sound, with the added benefit of enhanced aesthetic appeal in terms of lighting effects.

Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the two switches also differ. The Bobagum features its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which shares the same softness as the top housing and contributes to a rich and deep sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Plum utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound experience. Therefore, depending on personal preference, individuals may find the Bobagum's softness more pleasing or may prefer the Plum's nylon housing for its deeper and fuller sound.

In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, it is important to note that the qualities associated with each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing material will have a more noticeable effect on the sound produced. Thus, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom can greatly influence the overall typing experience and sound signature of a switch.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls in the medium range. In contrast, the actuation force of the Plum switch is not available, but it has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Bobagum would be a suitable choice with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel and a stronger push when typing may opt for the Plum switch with its heavier bottom out force. This added force provides a more tactile typing experience, but it may require a bit more effort.

Although the actuation force of the Plum switch is unknown, it is likely to provide a similar experience to the Bobagum switch in terms of actuation, as both fall within the medium range. However, it is important to note that the Plum switch has a higher bottom out force, making it slightly heavier compared to the Bobagum. This difference could be beneficial for those who desire a more pronounced key press and enjoy the satisfying feeling of bottoming out keys.

In conclusion, while the Gazzew Bobagum and Kailh Plum switches share a similar actuation force range, their bottom out forces differ. The Bobagum offers a lighter typing experience, while the Plum switch provides a heavier and more substantial feel. Choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with lighter switches being ideal for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is an important factor in determining the overall feel and performance of a keyboard. In the case of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on the keys, you will experience the same distance of travel for both switches. As a result, the typing experience and the tactile feedback provided by both switches will be quite similar. Therefore, whether you choose the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch or the Kailh Plum tactile switch, you can expect to get the same results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a nearly silent typing experience. It is described as muted, which means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes it ideal for those seeking a more discreet and unobtrusive keyboard. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. It is neither overly loud nor completely silent, striking a balance that is pleasing to most users. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycap materials used.

In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch offers a unique experience with its smooth and "matte" feel. It provides a subtle level of resistance, giving it a light typing feel without being overly feather-light. Additionally, it has a non-resonant sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces where noise might be a concern. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. It is designed to be approachable and comfortable for most users, with qualities that fall in a safe middle ground. It also features a stepped tactile feel, meaning there are two stages in the keystroke with a slight pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.

Considering all the available information, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Bobagum switch stands out for its unparalleled tactility and smooth feel, providing an almost matte sensation. It also produces a nearly silent sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a unique combination of weightiness without a pronounced tactile bump. It has a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable for most users. While these switches have their own characteristics, they both offer a pleasant typing experience in their respective ways. If you are looking for similar results, either switch can provide a satisfying keyboarding experience depending on your preference for tactility and sound.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you're looking for a smooth and almost 'matte' feel with unparalleled tactility, along with a nearly silent sound profile, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that feels hefty with a unique, moderate tactile bump, combined with a neutral and enjoyable sound profile, then the Kailh Plum tactile switch is the way to go. Considering the sound characteristics, the Bobagum offers a muted typing experience, perfect for minimizing noise in shared spaces. Meanwhile, the Plum provides a neutral sound profile suitable for various environments, whether at home or work. In terms of feel, the Bobagum offers a subtle resistance and a non-resonant sound signature, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Plum, on the other hand, provides a mild and approachable typing experience, with a stepped feel that adds a touch of uniqueness. Ultimately, the choice between the two boils down to your preference for smoothness and silent operation (Bobagum) or moderate tactility and a unique feel (Plum).

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more