Gazzew Bobagum vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Bsun Tomcat both offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences, even as they share the linear switch category. The Bobagum switches stand out with their unique matte feel, striking a balance between the slickness of a polished switch and the roughness of unlubed ones. This results in an exceptionally smooth typing experience that is complemented by a nearly silent sound profile, making them ideal for quiet environments or late-night gaming sessions. In contrast, the Tomcat switches, equipped with Ly stems, also prioritize smoothness but deliver a more resonant sound profile that can add a satisfying auditory feedback to each keystroke. While the muted and subtle tones of the Bobagum may appeal to those seeking discretion, theTomcat's lively sound can invigorate the typing experience for others. Both switches have their merits, whether you prefer the understated characteristics of the Bobagum or the expressive quality of the Tomcat. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$6.50 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Bsun Tomcat, we observe notable differences in both their top and bottom housings. The Bobagum utilizes a proprietary blend of plastic known as "boba plastic" for its top housing, which is designed to produce a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Tomcat features a polycarbonate top housing that is inherently stiffer, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This discrepancy highlights how the choice of material can greatly influence the auditory experience while typing. While the Bobagum's softer plastic lends itself to a warmer tone, the Tomcat's clear polycarbonate contributes to a more pronounced and resonant sound, making each switch unique in its auditory signature.

Examining the bottom housings, the Bobagum again employs its proprietary "boba plastic," which mirrors the qualities of its top housing by delivering a similarly deep and rich sound profile. On the other hand, the Tomcat incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, a material that is well-known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its soft and sound-absorbing characteristics. While both switches utilize softer materials that dampen sound, the Bobagum's use of its proprietary blend ensures that the sound remains consistent throughout the switch, whereas the nylon housing of the Tomcat offers its own unique acoustic properties. Despite employing different materials, both switches can achieve a satisfying auditory experience, albeit with distinct tonal characteristics.

In practical terms, while the Gazzew Bobagum and Bsun Tomcat feature different housing materials, they share the ability to deliver satisfying sound profiles suited to varying preferences. The Bobagum, with its consistent "boba plastic" throughout both housing components, ensures that the sound is cohesive and harmonious, favoring deeper tones. Conversely, the Tomcat, with its hybrid approach of using polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom, captures a broader range of auditory nuances, leading to a diverse typing experience. Ultimately, the sound profiles generated by each switch can be attributed to the combination of materials used in their construction, highlighting how both differences and similarities in housing can lead to an array of sounds and tactile feedback during use.

Weight

The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch present distinct differences in their actuation forces while sharing similarities in their bottom-out characteristics. The Bobagum switch has an unspecified actuation force but a bottom-out force of 55 grams, contributing to a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly lower bottom-out force of 54 grams. This makes the Tomcat the lighter option overall, as its actuation force is measurable and less than that of the unspecified Bobagum. Users who favor lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions might find the Tomcat more appealing due to its defined actuation force, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel might lean towards the Bobagum's greater bottom-out force, though the overall experience may be similar given the close bottom-out values.

Travel distance

The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this regard. This means that users can expect a similar key feel and responsiveness when pressing down on either switch, as both will travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. Since their travel distances are equal, the resulting typing experience will also be remarkably similar, allowing for comparable performance and tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum switch delivers a notably muted profile, producing a softer and quieter acoustic footprint compared to more traditional, clacky mechanical switches. This makes it an excellent choice for environments where noise is a concern, as its almost whisper-like typing sound minimizes the typical clatter associated with mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch features a resonant sound profile, which likely delivers a richer auditory experience when typing. The resonance may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback, but it could be less suitable in quiet settings. Overall, the Bobagum clearly stands out for its discreet sound, while the Tomcat offers a more vibrant auditory character.

In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch is characterized by its almost 'matte' texture, providing a unique sensation that balances smoothness with subtle tactile feedback. Its gentle resistance allows for a light typing experience, perfect for prolonged use without fatigue. This switch is particularly friendly in shared environments due to its gentle acoustics and tactile response. Comparatively, the Tomcat's use of Ly stems promotes a super smooth typing experience, which suggests it also aims for a refined touch, potentially catering to users seeking fluid keypresses. While explicit details on the Tomcat’s tactile character are lacking, it’s reasonable to assume that it offers an enjoyable typing experience, though it might differ in the specifics of feedback compared to the Bobagum.

In conclusion, both the Gazzew Bobagum and Bsun Tomcat linear switches cater to distinct preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Bobagum excels in offering a muted sound and smooth feel, making it ideal for quiet settings and users who prioritize a subtle typing experience. Meanwhile, the Tomcat aims for a resonant sound profile with a potentially equally smooth feel, appealing to those who enjoy auditory feedback. Each switch has its strengths, allowing users to choose based on their specific requirements for sound and tactile response. Ultimately, the decision between the two hinges on personal preferences regarding sound dynamics and typing sensations.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch will largely depend on your personal typing preferences and intended use cases. If you prioritize a muted sound profile and a unique, soft feel as you type, the Bobagum may be the ideal switch for you. With its subtle resistance and smoothness, it's particularly suited for shared environments where minimizing noise is key, making it a great option for office settings or late-night gaming sessions. Conversely, if you’re looking for a switch that delivers a resonant sound along with an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Tomcat is a strong contender. The slightly higher bottom-out force of the Tomcat doesn't significantly differentiate it from the Bobagum, but its distinct acoustic feedback might appeal to users who enjoy auditory cues while typing. Ultimately, whichever switch you choose, both the Bobagum and Tomcat offer unique benefits that can enhance your overall typing experience, so consider what matters most to you—be it sound, feel, or both—as you make your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

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Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more