Gazzew Bobagum vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Bobagum switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and unique 'matte' feel, providing a tactile typing experience with a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, delivering a deep sound signature that complements its smooth linear action. While the Bobagum is categorized as 'Muted' and 'Subtle', the Sky V4 is described as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Both switches offer their own advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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 Dareu Sky V4 both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Bobagum utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Sky V4 features a POK top housing, preferred for its smoothness and durability, while its bottom housing is made of nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their distinct housing materials.
While the Bobagum's Gazzew blend housing focuses on delivering a soft and deep sound profile, the Sky V4's POK housing emphasizes smoothness and durability. The POK material in the Sky V4 is engineered to be exceptionally strong and wear-resistant, surpassing other materials like Nylon and POM. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Sky V4 absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound experience compared to the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the Bobagum. Each switch's housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the typing experience.
In terms of how the housing materials impact the typing experience, the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. The Gazzew blend housing in the Bobagum and the POK material in the Sky V4 both contribute to creating a unique sound profile when typing on these switches. Although they have different properties and characteristics, both housing materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a specific sound and feel that caters to the preferences of keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V4's 45 grams, making the Bobagum slightly heavier in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bobagum requires 62 grams, whereas the Sky V4 only needs 55 grams, making the Sky V4 lighter in this regard. Both switches fall under the medium actuation force category, but the Bobagum leans towards a heavier bottom out force, while the Sky V4 is on the lighter side. This means that typing on the Bobagum may feel more substantial and solid due to the higher bottom out force, while the Sky V4 may offer a slightly smoother typing experience with a lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a heavier or lighter typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of travel distance. In terms of comparing and contrasting their travel distances, both switches offer the same typing experience in this aspect. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and travel distance when using either the Bobagum or Sky V4 switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V4 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 V4 for $4.76.
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 and nearly silent typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter environment while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a thocky, deep, and rich sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference, typists can choose between the subtle and muted sound of the Bobagum or the deep and satisfying sound of the Sky V4.
Moving on to feel, the Bobagum switch is known for its unique tactile feel that is described as almost 'matte' in texture, providing an unparalleled smoothness that is truly one of a kind. Typists can expect a light typing feel with a gentle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces where a quiet typing experience is preferred. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Whether you prefer a subtle and light typing feel of the Bobagum or a bouncy and spring-like sensation of the Sky V4, both switches offer a unique and satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Typists can choose between the nearly silent and muted sound profile of the Bobagum or the deep and thocky sound of the Sky V4. Similarly, they can decide between the smooth and tactile feel of the Bobagum or the bouncy and elastic feedback sensation of the Sky V4. Ultimately, both switches provide a unique and satisfying typing experience that will enhance any mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a unique tactile experience with a smooth 'matte' feel and almost silent sound profile, the Bobagum would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and satisfying typing experience with a richer sound signature, thanks to the innovative POK material in its top housing, then the Sky V4 might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
