Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Sunset Gleam stand out as two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Bobagum switches are celebrated for their unique 'matte' feel, providing a typing sensation that strikes a balance between smoothness and subtle texture. This results in an almost silent sound profile that many users appreciate for a more discreet operation. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam switches, also known as the Duck Duck switch, offer a distinctive blend of materials that not only creates a satisfying clack at the top-out but also boasts excellent factory lubrication, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the Bobagum switches prioritize a muted sound and smooth feel, the Sunset Gleam delivers a more audible feedback combined with its slick operation. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on one's personal preferences—whether you lean towards a quieter, more understated experience or favor a slightly more pronounced auditory response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Sunset Gleam, we see a distinct divergence between the two designs, particularly in the composition of the top housings. The Bobagum employs a proprietary plastic blend often referred to as "boba plastic," which is characterized by its softness and ability to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam utilizes polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic known for creating a sharper and crisper sound due to its resonant qualities. This fundamental difference in material composition suggests that while both switches aim to provide unique auditory experiences, the type of sound produced will vary significantly depending on whether one is using the softer, deeper characteristics of the Bobagum's top housing or the clearer, more resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate housing of the Sunset Gleam.

Similarly, the bottom housings of these two switches exhibit distinct characteristics that further influence their sound profiles. The Bobagum's bottom housing also embraces the boba plastic material, maintaining its soft and rich sonic quality. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam features a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to absorb sound, thereby facilitating a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This difference implies a variation in the perceived weight and depth of the sound produced when each switch bottoms out. As a result, users might notice that while the Bobagum offers a consistent sound profile across both housings, the Sunset Gleam's nylon bottom housing introduces additional depth that complements the higher-pitched profile of its polycarbonate top.

In summary, both switches introduce unique sound experiences due to their different housing materials, which ultimately impact the acoustic quality during keypresses and releases. The Bobagum's uniform usage of the soft boba plastic in both the top and bottom housings creates a cohesive sound profile that enhances the depth across the board. On the other hand, the contrasting materials of the Sunset Gleam's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing lead to a finely tuned interplay of sound qualities, allowing for a broader range of auditory expression. While users may gravitate toward one switch over the other based on their sound preferences, each switch has the potential to cater to distinct auditory experiences, underscoring the significance of material selection in keyboard design.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Bobagum has an unspecified actuation force, but it features a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lower bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Sunset Gleam provides a notably lighter typing experience, which may appeal to those engaging in extended typing sessions or gaming due to reduced fatigue. Meanwhile, the Bobagum, with its heavier bottom out force, offers a more substantial tactile feedback, which could be preferred by users seeking a firmer response when typing. Overall, the Gazzew Bobagum switch is perceived as heavier, while the HMX Sunset Gleam is lighter, making them suitable for different user preferences and typing styles.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we find that the Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Bobagum offers a deeper feel when pressed down, which may appeal to users who favor a more substantial tactile experience. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam's shorter travel distance could cater to gamers or those who prefer quicker response times, offering a snappier feedback with each keystroke. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness, the HMX Sunset Gleam may be the better choice, while the Gazzew Bobagum would suit those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is notably muted, delivering a softer and quieter auditory experience compared to traditional mechanical keyboard switches. This design minimizes the characteristic noise often associated with keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for environments where sound discretion is essential. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, while not explicitly described in terms of its sound profile, is known to produce a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack due to its unique material blend and factory lubrication. Therefore, while the Bobagum excels in producing a quieter typing experience, the Sunset Gleam potentially offers a more audible, yet refined sound signature, which may appeal to users who enjoy a touch of acoustic feedback.

In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch boasts a distinctive matte sensation, providing a smooth typing experience that strikes a balance between the slickness of polished glides and the drag of unlubed switches. This creates a gentle typing experience with a subtle resistance, making it a comfortable option for prolonged use, particularly in shared spaces due to its muted sound signature. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam's feel isn’t specifically highlighted, leaving its tactile feedback and resistance largely unspecified. However, given its engineered design and factory lube, it is reasonable to expect a smooth and satisfying typing experience as well, albeit with a different character than the Bobagum.

In conclusion, both the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Bobagum excels in providing a serene and smooth typing experience with its muted sound and subtle feel, making it ideal for those prioritizing a quieter environment. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam, with its possible satisfying clack and excellent factory lubrication, might appeal more to users who enjoy a bit more acoustic feedback. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying results, but the choice will depend on whether one values a quieter experience or a more pronounced tactile interaction.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a switch that offers a medium-light bottom-out force and an exceptionally smooth, muted typing experience, the Bobagum is likely the better choice for you. This switch is ideal for situations where you need to minimize noise, such as in shared workspaces or during late-night gaming sessions, thanks to its almost silent sound profile and subtle feel. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 48 grams, and you appreciate a switch that provides a satisfying clack and pronounced feedback with excellent factory lube, then the HMX Sunset Gleam might be the way to go. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who like to feel a bit more engagement in their keystrokes without sacrificing smoothness. Ultimately, your decision should reflect how these different qualities align with your typing style and the acoustics of your workspace.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more