Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX Twilight

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, especially with two notable linear options: the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Twilight. The Bobagum switches are famed for their unique 'matte' tactile sensation, providing an unmatched smoothness that feels luxurious under the fingers. These bubblegum-colored switches are not only nearly silent, making them excellent for quiet environments, but also deliver a muted and subtle typing experience that many typists prefer. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight switches boast an extended 3.85mm travel distance, allowing users to experience the distinct clacky sound profile typically associated with HMX switches, albeit in a slightly quieter manner. While both switches ultimately cater to those who appreciate linear feedback, the choice boils down to whether you value a whisper-quiet and silky feel or a bit more audible presence combined with longer key travel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

HMX Twilight Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Twilight, there are notable similarities and differences that impact the overall typing experience each switch provides. The Bobagum employs a proprietary blend of plastic, often termed "boba plastic," for both its top and bottom housing. This material is primarily noted for its softness, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile when a key is actuated. Conversely, the Twilight features a more traditional nylon material for its top and bottom housings. While nylon is a well-regarded choice in the switch community, its sound properties are described as being deeper and fuller due to its soft nature that absorbs sound better than harder alternatives. Thus, while both switches utilize softer materials that enhance sound quality, the Bobagum's unique plastic blend represents a distinct approach compared to the classic nylon used by the Twilight.

The impact of the materials on the sound profile becomes more intriguing when considering the separation between the top and bottom housing characteristics. With the Bobagum employing the same blend throughout, the qualities of its housing are consistent, leading to a coherent sound both when pressing down a key and when releasing it. In contrast, the HMX Twilight’s use of nylon across both housings results in a clear delineation of how each contributes to the typing experience. Although the synthesis of sound and feel is influenced by the combination of housing materials, the Twilight's nylon may introduce a subtle variance in acoustics as the different housings interact with each other. Therefore, while both switches might emit a similar overall sound—that is deeper and fuller—the Bobagum's housing consistency may yield a more unified auditory signature.

Ultimately, the differences in housing materials highlight each switch's unique character while showcasing the advantages of softer plastics in enhancing sound profiles. For users who appreciate a deeper and rounder typing experience, both the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Twilight deliver satisfying results. The similarities in softness between the two materials ensure that you can achieve a comparable auditory experience regardless of the distinct construction. However, the proprietary design of the Bobagum's blend may ultimately provide a more harmonized resonance, whereas the HMX Twilight may offer a touch of traditional flair with its nylon heritage. Regardless, both switches reflect an understanding that the choice of material can significantly shape the nuances of typing and sound.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bobagum features an actuation force that is unknown, while its bottom out force measures at 55 grams, categorized as medium-light. In contrast, the Twilight has a clearly defined actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. This means that the HMX Twilight requires less force to actuate a keystroke, making it the lighter option, which may be preferable for those looking to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. The Bobagum, while unknown in its actuation force, is heavier in its bottom out, providing a more substantial feel for users who prefer a stronger push during typing. Overall, the Twilight is easier to actuate, while the Bobagum offers a firmer bottom-out experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we find that the Bobagum features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Twilight has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. Consequently, the Bobagum provides a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more appealing for gamers and users who favor quicker response times. In contrast, the Twilight's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress. These differences indicate that if responsiveness is your priority, the Bobagum would be the optimal choice, whereas if you value depth in your keystrokes, the Twilight would serve you better.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum switch excels with its muted profile, producing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to more traditional switches known for their clacking sounds. The near-silence of the Bobagum makes it an excellent choice for environments where noise control is essential. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch, while also quieter than typical switches, retains some of the clacky characteristics associated with HMX designs, likely offering a more pronounced but still dulled acoustic signature due to its extended travel distance. While both switches aim for reduced noise, the Bobagum provides a more muted experience, making it particularly appealing for those seeking discretion.

In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch is renowned for its subtlety, offering gentle resistance that strikes a balance between being light and not featherlike. This creates a smooth and pleasant typing experience that avoids the harshness found in unlubed switches. The Twilight switch, on the other hand, does not have a detailed description available, but its longer travel distance may contribute to a distinct yet potentially less defined feel when compared to the Bobagum. The smoothness of the Bobagum combined with its subtle resistance makes it ideal for both casual and extensive typing sessions.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a switch that excels in sound dampening and offers a smooth, subtly resistant feel, the Gazzew Bobagum is a standout option. While the HMX Twilight may offer a quieter experience with its extended travel, it may still retain some clackiness that provides a different tactile sensation. Ultimately, both switches cater to users seeking a linear switch experience, but the Bobagum clearly leads in sound and feel suitability for shared or quieter spaces, while the Twilight could appeal to those who prefer a little more character without excessive noise.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you seek a switch that offers a smooth, muted experience with a bottom-out force that provides a gentle yet satisfying resistance, the Bobagum is likely your best option. Its near-silent operation combined with that unique 'matte' feel makes it perfect for shared workspaces or for those who prioritize a tranquil typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing action with its 50-gram bottom-out force and enjoy a slightly longer travel distance, the HMX Twilight switch might better suit you. This switch still provides a rounded sound profile while retaining a subtle clack, appealing to users who appreciate a bit of character in their keystrokes. Ultimately, consider your typing style and environment: go for the Bobagum for a serene typing experience, or choose the Twilight for a dynamic yet controlled feel in your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew Bobagum Linear

$6.50 per 10

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HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more