Gazzew Bobagum vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can make all the difference in your typing experience. For those who prefer a linear switch, the Gazzew Bobagum is the clear frontrunner. These switches redefine smoothness with an almost 'matte' feel, offering an unparalleled tactility that's truly one of a kind. Typing on these bubblegum-colored switches is nearly silent, adding a touch of subtlety to your overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you crave a more tactile sensation, the SP-Star Polaris Purple might be the switch for you. Its big tactile bump provides an exhilarating typing experience, making each keystroke feel snappy and satisfying. With a sound profile that is categorized as snappy, the Polaris Purple offers a polished typing experience that will make your fingers dance across the keys. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$6.50 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the SP-Star Polaris Purple differ in terms of their sound profile and aesthetic properties. The Bobagum utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housing, which is known for delivering a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Polaris Purple features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a favorable choice for RGB lighting enthusiasts.

Although the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the SP-Star Polaris Purple have distinct characteristics, they both possess qualities that enhance the switch's sound profile. Both switches utilize a top housing material that contributes to the sound when a key is released. While the Bobagum's Gazzew blend offers a rich and deep sound, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate enables a sharper and crisper sound. Both materials provide unique sonic experiences based on their softness or stiffness.

In terms of aesthetics, the Gazzew Bobagum and the SP-Star Polaris Purple differ due to the materials used in their top and bottom housings. The Bobagum's Gazzew blend top and bottom housing have a consistent look, providing a cohesive appearance. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top and bottom housing have a translucent quality, making it suitable for RGB lighting enthusiasts. The clear housing showcases the lighting effects more prominently, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch.

Overall, while the Gazzew Bobagum and the SP-Star Polaris Purple have contrasting housing materials, they both offer unique advantages for sound profiles and aesthetics. Whether it's the softness of the Gazzew blend or the stiffness and clarity of polycarbonate, both switches deliver exceptional experiences based on their specific housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are a few key differences to note. The Gazzew Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams, which is considered medium, while its bottom out force is slightly heavier at 62 grams. On the other hand, the exact actuation force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is unavailable. However, its bottom out force is 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gazzew Bobagum switch may be the better option as it has a lower actuation force. This allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. The Polaris Purple switch, with its higher bottom out force, provides a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer. It offers a stronger push feel, which can add a satisfying tactile feedback while typing.

In terms of weight, the Gazzew Bobagum switch can be considered lighter due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Polaris Purple switch. However, it is worth mentioning that both switches fall within the medium range, so the difference may not be significant for some users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Polaris Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bobagum. In terms of traditional travel distances, both switches fall within the acceptable range, with the Polaris Purple being closer to the more common 4.0 mm distance. However, with the increasing popularity of shorter travel distances for faster response times, the Bobagum may be preferred by gamers who prioritize quick key presses. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper feel when pressing keys, the slightly longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch provides a nearly silent typing experience. Its muted sound profile minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. This means it produces a moderate sound, suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Bobagum offers a subtle typing experience. It has a gentle resistance that is not too feather-light but still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the sound signature of the Bobagum is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple provides a mild typing experience. Its characteristics are more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced features. Furthermore, the Polaris Purple has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth key travel.

Overall, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch stands out for its unparalleled tactility and smoothness. It offers a unique typing experience with its 'matte' feel. The nearly silent sound profile adds to the overall appeal of these switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch excels in providing a exhilarating tactile typing experience. Its big tactile bump offers a satisfying feedback. In terms of sound, it has a snappy profile. Both switches provide subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Bobagum is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile and more pronounced typing experience, the Polaris Purple will be a great choice.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider. The Bobagum offers a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and is best known for its unparalleled tactility and nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile.

In terms of sound, the Bobagum is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This makes it suitable for environments where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple has a neutral sound profile, which means it falls in the middle ground, making it a versatile choice for both beginners and advanced users, whether at home or work.

When it comes to feel, the Bobagum is described as having a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel while being suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound signature. The Polaris Purple, on the other hand, offers a mild typing experience, with a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, it is described as polished, meaning it provides a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, your choice between the Bobagum and Polaris Purple will depend on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a lower bottom out force with a nearly silent sound profile and unparalleled tactility, the Bobagum may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force with a big tactile bump and a versatile sound profile that falls in the middle ground, the Polaris Purple may be more suitable. Consider your specific needs, preferences, and typing environment when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more