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Gazzew Bobagum vs. Gazzew U4

An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

Introducing the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gazzew U4, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and experiences. The Bobagum is a linear switch, while the U4 is a tactile switch. If you're in search of an incredibly smooth typing experience, the Bobagum is the way to go. Its 'matte' feel provides a level of smoothness that is unmatched, and the switch offers a distinctive tactility that is truly one of a kind. Additionally, these bubblegum-colored switches produce a nearly silent sound profile, making typing a quiet and enjoyable experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, the U4 switch is the perfect choice. Typing on the U4s provides a satisfying tactile response, and the felt-like bottom-out sensation adds a plushness that is unexpected yet delightful. Furthermore, the U4 switches have a whisper-quiet sound profile, allowing for a seamless and distraction-free typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

N/A

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

55g

Bottom-out force

62g

Pre-travel

N/A

Pre-travel

N/A

Total travel

3.60 mm

Total travel

3.60 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

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Bottom housing material

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Bottom housing material

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring

Spring

Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gazzew U4 share many similarities. Both switches utilize a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing and bottom housing, commonly known as "boba plastic." This specific plastic blend is soft, allowing it to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. When it comes to sound, both switches produce a similar effect due to the softness of their housing materials, resulting in a satisfying auditory experience. Whether you are pressing down on the key or letting go, the top housing's impact on the sound remains consistent between the two switches.

However, despite these similarities, there might still be some differences in the housing materials between the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gazzew U4. If the top and bottom housing materials vary for each switch, it means that the qualities of the housing materials will be distributed differently. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, any potential differences in the housing materials could impact the overall typing experience offered by each switch, focusing on specific aspects such as bottom-out or key release sound and feel.

In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gazzew U4 have many shared qualities due to their utilization of the same proprietary Gazzew blend "boba plastic." They both deliver a rich and deep sound profile, resulting in a satisfying auditory experience. However, if there are differences in the top and bottom housing materials for each switch, it might affect specific aspects of the typing experience, such as the bottom-out sound and feel or the sound produced when releasing a key. Overall, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience, with any potential differences in the housing materials offering subtle variations in sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Starting with the actuation force, the Bobagum requires 46 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the U4 requires slightly less at 43 grams. Both switches fall under the medium force category, offering a balance between light and heavy typing experiences.

Moving on to the bottom out force, both switches share the same value of 62 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of force to fully press down the key. This means that if someone prefers a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, they would get similar results with either the Bobagum or the U4 switch.

Weight is a factor worth considering when choosing between these switches. Some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, which is particularly useful for work or gaming purposes. In this case, the U4 switch with its slightly lighter actuation force may be more appealing. On the other hand, those who prefer a heavier typing feel may opt for the Bobagum switch with its slightly higher actuation force.

In summary, while the actuation force differs slightly, the bottom out force remains the same for the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch. Choosing between them would depend on the desired typing experience, with the Bobagum providing a slightly heavier feel and the U4 offering a slightly lighter option.

Travel distance

The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you would feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. The similar travel distance between the Bobagum and the U4 ensures that users can expect consistent feedback and typing experience with both switches.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

In this case, both switches are $6.50. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Bobagum and U4.

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

The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is best known for its smoothness and unique tactility. It offers a matte-like feel that is different from the polished glide of ice-skating or the texture of unlubed switches. When typing on these switches, expect a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. It provides a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4s also have a whisper quiet sound profile. The Bobagum is described as having a muted sound, while the U4 is described as both muted and low-pitched. Please note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. In terms of feel, the Bobagum is described as having a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. The U4, on the other hand, has a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity, making it easy to feel the tactile response with each keypress. In conclusion, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Bobagum provides a smoother and nearly silent typing experience with a subtle feel, the U4 offers a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation with a whisper quiet sound. Depending on your preferences and typing environment, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and priorities. If you value a smooth and silent typing experience with a subtle feel, the Bobagum switch is the one for you. It offers unparalleled smoothness with a unique matte-like texture and a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, if you prioritize a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump along with a plush bottom-out sensation, the U4 switch is the way to go. With its sharp tactile feedback and felt-like bottom-out, it provides a distinct typing experience. Both switches have a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Overall, consider the Bobagum if you prefer smoothness and a subtle feel, while the U4 is ideal for those seeking a sharp tactile bump and plush sensation.

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