Gazzew Bobagum vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options to consider are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Dareu Sky POM, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Bobagum is renowned for its smoothness, providing a tactile experience like no other with its bubblegum-colored design and almost silent sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky POM stands out for its premium quality made from POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force at an affordable price point. While the Bobagum is categorized as 'Muted' and 'Subtle', the Sky POM is described as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the Dareu Sky POM both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings are designed to deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This "boba plastic" material creates a pleasing sound both on key press and release. In contrast, the Sky POM uses POM for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a sound profile that is deep yet relatively muted. The nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound upon bottom-out.
While both the Bobagum and Sky POM offer unique housing materials, they provide differing sound profiles due to the materials used. The Gazzew blend top and bottom housings of the Bobagum result in a sound that is rich and deep, with a softness that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Sky POM offers a deeper yet more muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience and the sound produced by each switch.
Despite their differences, the Gazzew Bobagum and Dareu Sky POM share similarities in their approach to creating a distinct sound profile. Both switches utilize unique housing materials to enhance the typing experience, with the Bobagum's Gazzew blend and the Sky POM's POM and nylon materials each contributing to a specialized sound profile. Whether it's the softness of the "boba plastic" in the Bobagum or the sound-absorbing properties of the nylon in the Sky POM, these housing materials work in tandem to create a satisfying typing experience for users. Ultimately, both switches offer users a unique sound profile that is a result of their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their typing experience. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium resistance level. On the other hand, the Sky POM has an actuation force of 40 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. This makes the Bobagum slightly heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Bobagum switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, while the Sky POM switch could be more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter touch. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. While the Bobagum has a slightly shorter travel distance than the Sky POM, the difference is minimal and may not be noticeable to the average user. For those who prefer a more responsive feel, the Bobagum may be the better option, while the Sky POM might provide a slightly more deliberate keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific feel that each individual user is looking for in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a muted experience, providing a softer and quieter typing sound compared to more common clacky switches. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch produces a low-pitched sound, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Bobagum switch is known for its subtle tactile feedback and gentle resistance, offering a unique typing experience that is not overly pronounced. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch has been described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Both switches offer a different feel, catering to individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch each have distinct characteristics that set them apart in the world of mechanical keyboard switches. The Bobagum excels in providing a unique, almost 'matte' smoothness and a nearly silent sound profile, while the Sky POM stands out for its premium quality at an accessible price point, clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that can elevate your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and what features you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you value a medium bottom out force, a matte smoothness, and a nearly silent sound profile, then the Bobagum might be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, then the Sky POM could be more to your liking. Consider your typing style, the environment you'll be using the keyboard in, and the overall feel and sound you desire to make the best choice for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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