Gazzew Bobagum vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Semi Mute. Both switches offer unique features and advantages that cater to different preferences. The Bobagum switch is widely recognized for its unparalleled tactility, providing a smooth and matte-like feel that sets it apart from others. Additionally, these bubblegum-colored switches produce a nearly silent sound profile, making them perfect for those who prefer a muted and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch, despite its name, operates completely silently. Designed for individuals who value a noise-free environment and seek undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the Semi Mute switch offers a gratifying typing feel, thanks to its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Semi Mute differ in their housing materials, specifically in their top and bottom housings. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing that is known for its softness, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in materials leads to distinct auditory experiences when pressing and releasing keys. While the Bobagum's soft top housing offers a satisfying and resonant bottom-out sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Semi Mute provides a clear and vibrant sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users seeking a switch with an emphasis on deep and rich sounds might prefer the Bobagum, whereas those desiring a crisper and sharper sound profile may opt for the Semi Mute.
Interestingly, both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their bottom housings. This choice results in a similar impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. Polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. While the Bobagum's bottom housing may also deliver a rich and deep sound due to its softness, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute will provide a slightly sharper and more defined feedback upon pressing the keys.
To consider aesthetics and lighting preferences, the Gazzew Bobagum's top housing is not translucent, while the Semi Mute's polycarbonate top housing is. Therefore, if using RGB lighting is a priority, the Semi Mute would be more suitable due to the translucency of its top housing. This allows the RGB lighting to shine through and create vibrant lighting effects, enhancing the overall visual appeal. In contrast, the Bobagum does not offer the same level of transparency, which may limit the visual impact of RGB lighting. Thus, if the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting is desired, the polycarbonate top housing of the Semi Mute provides an advantage.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, we can see that both switches fall under the medium force category. The Gazzew Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams, while the KTT Semi Mute has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams. Similarly, the Bobagum has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Semi Mute has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Semi Mute may be the preferred choice due to its slightly lighter actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter switch allows for smoother and easier keystrokes, which can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying typing experience may opt for the Gazzew Bobagum with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. These heavier forces require a bit more force to trigger a keystroke and provide a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Overall, both switches offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, individuals can choose between the slightly lighter KTT Semi Mute or the slightly heavier Gazzew Bobagum to achieve their desired typing feel. It is worth noting that although the forces may differ slightly between the two switches, they both fall within the medium range, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of length, the Semi Mute has a slightly longer travel distance than the Bobagum. The Bobagum falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which has gained popularity, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Semi Mute offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, which some individuals may prefer for a more substantial feel. Both switches provide different experiences due to their varying travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
The Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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, both the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Semi Mute switches offer a muted sound profile. Muted switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Bobagum switches are known for their smoothness and unique tactility. They have a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel. The sound signature of these switches will not be resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches are described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Semi Mute switches have a mild typing experience, offering a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics.
Considering the available information, the Gazzew Bobagum switches are renowned for their smoothness and unparalleled tactility, while also providing a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switches are specifically designed for those who value a noise-free environment, offering a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. Both switches offer a muted sound profile, ensuring a quieter typing experience. While the Bobagum switches have a more subtle feel, the Semi Mute switches provide a buttery and mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. However, if a user desires a similar sound profile and a smooth typing experience, either switch would yield satisfactory results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value an unparalleled level of smoothness, a nearly silent typing experience, and a switch that offers a unique tactile feel, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is a great choice for you. These switches redefine what it means to have a smooth switch and provide a satisfying typing experience with their matte-like feel. Additionally, their bubblegum color adds a fun and playful touch to your keyboard setup.
On the other hand, if you prioritize creating a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed late-night typing sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the way to go. Despite their completely silent operation, these switches still offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. With their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, you can enjoy a seamless and effortless keystroke experience.
Both switches belong to the medium bottom out force category, which means they provide a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for a wide range of users. Additionally, they are both described as having a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch offers a subtle resistance and a light typing feel, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch provides a buttery and fluid keystroke experience, with a more gentle typing sensation overall.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch depends on your priorities and preferences. Whether you prioritize smoothness and unique tactility or a completely silent and comfortable typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different user needs. Consider your environment, desired typing experience, and personal preferences when making your decision.