Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Bobagum is praised for its smooth, almost 'matte' feel that provides a distinct tactile experience and a nearly silent sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a muted and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Swift stands out for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, paired with a delicate 42g actuation force, making it a great option for those who enjoy a clacky, easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy typing experience. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Swift share similar characteristics in terms of their top housing materials. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Similarly, the Swift's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In terms of sound production, both top housing materials contribute to a prominent typing experience with a focus on depth and richness.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing materials of the Bobagum and Swift switches, there are notable differences in their composition and effects on sound. The Gazzew Bobagum's Gazzew blend bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing, delivering a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Swift's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, but the impact may be perceived differently due to varying plastic properties. Despite the differences, both bottom housings aim to enhance the overall sound experience of the switches, but may elicit slightly different tactile responses when typing.
Overall, the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Swift switches offer unique housing materials for both the top and bottom components that cater to specific sound profiles and typing experiences. While the Bobagum utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housing to create a rich and deep sound profile, the Swift opts for nylon materials that provide a deeper and fuller sound experience. Understanding the impact of each housing material on sound production can help users choose the switch that aligns with their preferences for typing feel and auditory feedback. Despite the differences in materials used, both switches prioritize sound quality and tactile response for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch to the HMX Swift linear switch, it's evident that the Bobagum has a slightly heavier actuation force at 46 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams. In terms of the bottom out force, the Bobagum also requires more pressure at 62 grams, while the Swift is lighter at 50 grams. This means that the Bobagum provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. On the other hand, the Swift offers a lighter touch, making it suitable for those who prefer a smoother and faster typing experience. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Bobagum being heavier and the Swift being lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for typing feel and desired weight of the switch.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. This makes the Swift the longer-traveling switch of the two. In terms of keyboard preferences, a shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers for its quicker response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards a switch with a longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a muted and almost silent typing experience, ideal for those looking for a quiet switch option. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch provides a deeper and clacky sound profile, giving a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Depending on personal preference, the Bobagum's muted sound may be more suitable for shared spaces or those who prefer a quieter typing experience, whereas the Swift's clacky sound may appeal to individuals who enjoy a more audible feedback when typing.
When it comes to feel, the Bobagum linear switch is described as offering a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel without being too feather-light. The switch's unique matte smoothness adds to the tactile experience while typing. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for key actuation. This feather-light feel, combined with a bouncy and creamy sensation, enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a smooth keystroke.
Overall, both the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Swift linear switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Bobagum excels in providing a nearly silent typing experience with its unique matte feel, while the Swift stands out with its deeper sound profile and easy-to-press nature. Depending on whether you prioritize a quiet sound or a light, bouncy feel while typing, both switches offer exceptional qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between Gazzew Bobagum linear switches and HMX Swift linear switches, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and enjoy a smooth and almost 'matte' feel with nearly silent typing, then the Bobagum switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams with a deeper sound profile due to full nylon housings and a silky smooth typing experience with easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, or creamy feel, then the HMX Swift switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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