Gazzew Bobagum vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum to the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Bobagum stands out for its smooth and tactile feel, providing a distinctive typing experience with a muted and subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Star excels in its buttery smoothness and light 45g bottom-out, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a low-pitched and easy-to-press switch. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Purple Star switches both aim to deliver rich and deep sound profiles, with the Bobagum using a proprietary plastic blend known as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings, while the Purple Star utilizes POM for both components. The Bobagum's "boba plastic" is praised for its softness, which contributes to the switch's sound profile, while the Purple Star's POM material creates a unique and pleasing sound, albeit more on the muted side. Despite the different materials used, both switches successfully achieve a deep sound profile, with the Bobagum offering a softer touch compared to the Purple Star's more muted sound.
In terms of the top housing materials, the Gazzew Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend and the KTT Purple Star's POM both contribute to the switches' sound profiles upon key release. The Bobagum's "boba plastic" delivers a rich and deep sound with its softness, while the Purple Star's POM also provides a unique and deep sound quality. However, the Purple Star's sound profile is described as being relatively more muted compared to the Bobagum. This difference in sound profile can affect the overall typing experience depending on the user's preference for a softer or more muted sound upon key release.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The Gazzew Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend and the KTT Purple Star's POM both contribute to the switches' overall sound profile when the key is fully pressed. Both materials aim to deliver a rich and deep sound, with the Bobagum's "boba plastic" providing a soft touch and the Purple Star's POM creating a pleasing sound. Despite the differences in material, both switches are able to achieve a satisfying bottom-out sound, contributing to an enjoyable typing experience regardless of the specific housing material used.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Bobagum has a heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Purple Star. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Bobagum provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-weight actuation and bottom out force, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Purple Star offers a lighter typing experience with its lower actuation and bottom out force, which is ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have their advantages, with the Bobagum being better for users seeking a heavier typing experience, and the Purple Star catering to those who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them favorable for users looking for faster response times, especially gamers. The slight difference of 0.1mm between the two may not be noticeably different in terms of feel, as both offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for the subtle variation in travel distance - with the Bobagum being slightly longer than the Purple Star.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch produces a low-pitched sound, giving off a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer relatively quiet operation, making them suitable for shared spaces or environments where noise level is a concern.
Moving on to feel, the Gazzew Bobagum switch provides a subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance that is not too light but still offers a smooth and comfortable feel. The sound signature is also described as non-resonant, further contributing to a peaceful typing environment. In comparison, the KTT Purple Star switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, with an easy-to-press design that minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Both switches fall within a comfortable typing feel range, catering to users who prefer light actuation force and smooth keystrokes.
Considering all available information, the Gazzew Bobagum and KTT Purple Star linear switches offer distinct yet desirable qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Bobagum switch excels in providing a quieter and subtly tactile typing experience, the Purple Star switch stands out for its easy-to-press design and low-pitched sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of comfort and ease of use with either switch, while enjoying the nuances that make each stand out in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch or the KTT Purple Star linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a unique tactile experience with a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Purple Star could be the better option. Additionally, if you value a muted sound profile, the Bobagum may be more suitable, whereas if you prefer a low-pitched sound, the Purple Star may be more appealing. Overall, consider your personal typing preferences and characteristics that align with each switch to make the best decision for your typing experience.
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