Gazzew Bobagum vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introduction:
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences are the Gazzew Bobagum and the SP-Star Duck. The Bobagum switches are known for their unparalleled smoothness and unique tactility, creating a typing experience unlike any other. With a nearly silent sound profile and a matte feel, these bubblegum-colored switches provide a muted and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more gentle tactility, perfect for those seeking a tactile typing experience that is clean, crispy, and polished. With their neutral and mild characteristics, they create a buttery typing experience with a pleasing sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the SP-Star Duck differ in terms of their housing materials. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, while the Duck utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing. The Gazzew blend top housing is known for its softness, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Duck creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the Duck's top housing is translucent, making it ideal for users who plan to use RGB lighting. Although these two housing materials provide different sound profiles and aesthetic benefits, both switches offer satisfying results for users seeking high-quality switches.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Bobagum and the Duck also differ. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, just like its top housing counterpart. On the other hand, the Duck adopts a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. This difference in materials provides users with options depending on the type of sound and tactile experience they prefer.
When it comes to the overall feel and sound of a switch, the distinction between the top and bottom housing materials can vastly influence the user experience. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing contributes to the sound produced when a key is released. The Gazzew Bobagum's top and bottom housing materials work together to create a cohesive, softer, and more resonant sound profile, while the SP-Star Duck's top and bottom housing materials result in a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile. Understanding the impact of these housing materials allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their preferences in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams, while the Duck's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare these two. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Bobagum at 62 grams and the Duck at 58 grams.
In terms of weight, the Bobagum is known for being a lighter switch, which can be beneficial for those who prefer typing for longer periods of time or engaging in extended gaming sessions. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Bobagum can contribute to a smoother and faster typing experience.
On the other hand, the Duck tactile switch provides a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. The heavier bottom out force of 58 grams in the Duck switch can provide tactile feedback and a satisfying keystroke, which some typists may prefer for a more robust and deliberate typing experience.
Overall, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different options in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. While the Bobagum switch leans towards a lighter typing experience, the Duck switch offers a heavier and more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preference for force and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Duck switch is slightly longer than the Bobagum switch. However, both switches fall within the range of what is considered the most common travel distance of 4.0 mm. If you are a gamer looking for a faster response time, the shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm offered by the Bobagum switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper key press, the 4 mm travel distance of the Duck switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and whether you prioritize a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
The Bobagum switch is best known for its smoothness and unique tactility. When typing on these switches, users will experience an almost 'matte' feel that is unlike any other switch on the market. The smoothness is not as polished as ice-skating, but it is also not textured like unlubed switches. This combination creates a one-of-a-kind typing experience. As for the sound profile, the Bobagum switches are nearly silent. They produce a muted sound, which is softer and quieter compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes them perfect for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience.
On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience. The tactility of these switches is gentle, providing a typing feel that is not too pronounced or harsh. The sound profile of the Duck switches is clean and crispy, making them a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While the exact sound and feel of the switches will also depend on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, these subjective qualities of the Duck switches make them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work.
In conclusion, the Bobagum and Duck switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bobagum switches are known for their unparalleled smoothness and nearly silent sound profile. They provide a unique tactile experience that is unlike any other switch on the market. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile feel and a clean and crispy sound profile. The typing experience on both switches is enjoyable and suitable for various preferences. Whether you prefer the smooth and almost 'matte' feel of the Bobagum switches or the gentle and approachable feel of the Duck switches, you can expect a high-quality typing experience from either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your preferences for tactility, sound, and feel. If you value a unique and unparalleled tactility with a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum switches are a great choice. They offer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and redefine smoothness with their 'matte' feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switches are perfect. They have a medium bottom out force of 58 grams and provide a gentle tactility when typing. When it comes to sound, the Bobagum switches are muted, while the Duck switches have a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Bobagum switches offer a subtle typing experience, while the Duck switches provide a mild, buttery, and polished feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and feel.
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