Gazzew Bobagum vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present two distinct options, each appealing to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Bobagum linear switches are celebrated for their unique 'matte' feel, striking a balance between the polished glide of high-end switches and a more textured experience. This results in an exceptionally smooth keystroke paired with a nearly silent sound profile, making them ideal for those who enjoy a serene typing environment yet crave a refined tactile experience. Conversely, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches offer a compelling alternative with their balanced typing experience and an enticing "thock" sound that many enthusiasts desire. Thanks to a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, these switches enhance overall performance and provide an excellent refinement in feel. Both switches have their merits—whether you lean towards the quiet smoothness of the Bobagum or the satisfying auditory feedback of the Sticky Rice (V2). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), it is clear that they employ different materials that influence their sound profiles distinctively. The Bobagum utilizes a proprietary plastic blend often referred to as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings, which is characterized by its softness. This softness contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more immersive auditory experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) makes use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The polycarbonate's stiffer nature results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon contributes a fuller, rounder sound profile due to its softer construction. This distinction in materials leads to differing auditory experiences, personalized for user preference.
The implications of these material choices extend beyond just sound profiles and can dramatically alter the typing experience. In the Bobagum, both the top and bottom housings produce a cohesive audio signature thanks to the same soft material being used throughout. Users can expect a uniform deep sound when both bottoming out and releasing the key. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more segmented auditory experience due to the contrasting materials. The polycarbonate top housing heightens the sound upon release, akin to a higher-pitched note, while the nylon bottom housing enriches the sound when bottoming out. This split nature means users might enjoy heightened clarity during release and a more grounded depth when fully engaged with the switch.
Despite their differences, it is possible to achieve a satisfying auditory experience with both switch types by recognizing how each material affects the overall sound profile. For instance, if one prefers a richer overall sound that incorporates both the depth of nylon and the sharper clarity of polycarbonate, a switch with one material in the top and the other in the bottom can provide a balanced experience akin to the homogeneous Bobagum design. Achieving similar results can be a matter of personal preference; combining housing materials allows for a distinct interplay of sharpness and depth, ultimately leading to a unique yet appealing typing experience that balances the strengths of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there are notable differences in both the actuation force and bottom out force that cater to varying typing preferences. The Bobagum, with an unknown actuation force, features a bottom out force of 55 grams, which can be categorized as medium-light, providing a balanced feel. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option overall. Users who prefer a more tactile typing experience may lean towards the heavier feel of the Bobagum, while those seeking a more effortless keystroke will find the Sticky Rice (V2) more appealing. This variance in weight and force will influence typing endurance and engagement during long sessions, with lighter switches allowing for potentially less fatigue over time.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the Bobagum boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you prefer a more responsive typing experience commonly sought by gamers, the Sticky Rice (V2) might be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, for those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing and desire a bit of a depth in keystrokes, the Bobagum's longer travel distance may prove more satisfying. Ultimately, while both switches offer relatively short travel distances favored by many, the Bobagum is the optimal choice for users seeking that additional fraction of a millimeter in depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 sound profile of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is notably muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to traditional mechanical switches, making it an excellent choice for quiet environments. This subdued acoustic nature minimizes the typical noise associated with typing, which is beneficial for users who need to be considerate of their surroundings. In contrast, while the sound signature of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) isn't explicitly detailed, it is often appreciated for its neutral tone that gives a subtle "thock" sound, aligning with the desires of enthusiasts who appreciate a richer auditory experience without overwhelming volume. Ultimately, both switches cater to users seeking a more refined auditory experience but achieve this in different ways.
When it comes to feel, the Bobagum offers a unique typing experience characterized as subtle, providing a gentle resistance that is neither overly soft nor harsh. This results in a light typing feel that is particularly suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound signature. Conversely, the feel of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch is renowned for its super smooth keystroke, benefiting from a dustproof stem that reduces wobble and enhances stability. This construction allows for a consistently refined tactile sensation that many users find appealing. While both switches emphasize smoothness, the Bobagum leans more towards a softer touch, while the Sticky Rice showcases a combination of smoothness and refined stability.
In conclusion, both the Gazzew Bobagum and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches offer distinct yet enjoyable typing experiences that appeal to different preferences. The Bobagum’s muted sound and subtle feel cater to users who prioritize quietness and light resistance, making it ideal for office environments or shared spaces. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) provides a satisfying auditory feedback with its balanced "thock" and enhanced smoothness, making it suitable for enthusiasts who appreciate a bit more character in their typing. Choosing between the two will largely depend on whether a user values a nearly silent experience over a more acoustically engaging one, but both are excellent options in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you seek an exceptionally smooth and almost velvety typing experience, the Bobagum is ideal for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams balances comfort and feedback, making it a great option for long typing sessions, especially in quiet settings where a muted sound profile is essential. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light touch and desire that satisfying "thock" with a highly refined feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) would be your go-to switch. With a lighter 50-gram bottom-out force and super smooth keystroke, it’s perfect for those who appreciate a tactile sensation while still keeping the noise to a minimum. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value the silky smoothness of the Bobagum or the balanced feedback of the Sticky Rice, taking into consideration the scenarios in which you’ll be using your keyboard.
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