Gazzew Bobagum vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly impact your typing experience. Two popular options to consider are the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Strawberry, both of which are linear switches. The Bobagum is best known for its exceptional smoothness, providing a unique tactility that is unlike any other switch. It offers a slightly muted and subtle feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches are loved for their smooth actuation and comfortable feel. With their low-pitched sound profile and frictionless operation, these switches can offer a silky and buttery typing experience. Additionally, the Strawberry switches have a polished and attractive appearance with their pink and clear housings. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch would be the perfect fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 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 housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Strawberry switches show noticeable differences in terms of sound profile. The Bobagum utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which offers a softness that contributes to a rich and deep sound. In contrast, the Strawberry switch features polycarbonate top and bottom housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. These distinctions result in a noticeable difference in the auditory experience when typing on each switch.
Additionally, the housing materials of the Bobagum and the Strawberry switches have aesthetic implications. The Gazzew blend used in the Bobagum's housing is not translucent, meaning it does not lend itself well to RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the polycarbonate material used in the Strawberry switch's housing is transparent, allowing for vibrant RGB illumination. So, if you prioritize having visually captivating lighting effects, the Strawberry switch will be a more suitable choice.
Although the Bobagum and Strawberry switches differ in their housing materials, they share some similarities. Both switches offer a distinct sound profile, with the Bobagum providing a rich and deep sound due to its soft Gazzew blend housing, while the Strawberry delivers a sharper and crisper sound through its polycarbonate housing. Additionally, both switches prioritize sound quality, ensuring a satisfying auditory experience for users. So, if you value the overall sound experience, either switch can deliver the desired results, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are a few similarities and differences to consider. Both switches have a medium amount of force required for bottoming out at 62 grams, which means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of how hard they need to press the keys. However, when it comes to actuation force, there is a slight discrepancy. The Gazzew Bobagum requires 46 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the KTT Strawberry only needs 43 grams. This means that users may find the KTT Strawberry slightly more sensitive and easier to activate compared to the Bobagum.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Some users prefer a lighter switch as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for those using their keyboards for work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These users would likely benefit from opting for switches with heavier forces. Unfortunately, the provided information does not mention the weight of the Gazzew Bobagum and KTT Strawberry switches, so it is unclear which one is lighter or heavier. However, regardless of the weight difference, the actuation and bottom out forces play a more significant role in determining the typing experience. Overall, those seeking a slightly lighter and more sensitive typing experience might lean towards the KTT Strawberry linear switch, while those who prefer a slightly heavier and more tactile feel may prefer the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have different travel distances. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Strawberry has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. These differences in travel distance can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience. The Strawberry, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more traditional and deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Bobagum's shorter travel distance might appeal more to gamers or individuals seeking faster response times. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize a shallower, more responsive keypress or a deeper, more substantial keypress. Either way, both switches offer unique experiences, and you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of functionality.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is best known for its muted sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. Muted switches like the Bobagum minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means that it features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a subtle typing experience. This means that it has a gentle resistance, making it not too feather-light but still maintaining a light typing feel. Additionally, the Bobagum switch has a non-resonant sound signature, making it suitable for environments where minimal noise is desired. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch provides a frictionless typing experience. This means that it offers an extremely smooth and effortless feel when pressing the keys, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. The Strawberry switch is also described as silky and buttery, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience and providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation. Moreover, the Strawberry switch is referred to as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used or the presence of factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is best known for its matte feel, unparalleled tactility, and nearly silent sound profile. It offers a subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance and non-resonant sound, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch stands out with its attractive pink and clear housings, smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. It provides a frictionless typing experience with exceptional smoothness and effortless keystrokes. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities and can deliver satisfying results depending on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
If you prioritize smoothness and an unparalleled tactility, the Bobagum switches would be the ideal choice for you. With their unique 'matte' feel and almost silent sound profile, these switches redefine smoothness and provide a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a softer and quieter sound, the Bobagum's muted sound profile would be a great fit.
On the other hand, if you prefer a frictionless and extremely smooth typing experience, the Strawberry switches would be a perfect choice. These switches offer a fluid travel and enhance the overall smoothness of the typing feel. Moreover, if you prefer a low-pitched and more bass-heavy sound, the Strawberry switches provide a mellow tone that adds to the pleasant typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Bobagum and Strawberry switches depends on your individual preferences for smoothness, sound, and feel. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a keyboard switch and choose accordingly. Whether you prioritize unparalleled tactility or a frictionless typing experience, both switches offer their own unique benefits that will enhance your overall typing experience.
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