Gazzew Bobagum vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock White Lotus. These switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Bobagum switches are known for their smoothness, providing an almost 'matte' feel that sets them apart from other switches. They offer unparalleled tactility and a nearly silent sound profile, making them ideal for those seeking a more muted and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches are designed with the discerning typist in mind. They offer a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions. Additionally, these switches feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects, adding a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. Both switches have their unique attributes, offering different levels of tactility and customization options. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock White Lotus have contrasting housing materials that result in different sound profiles and typing experiences. The Gazzew Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," which offers a softness that produces a rich and deep sound. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The modified PC & UPE Blend top housing gives the White Lotus a unique and premium feel, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, typing on the White Lotus switch may elicit a more rounded and duller sound compared to the Bobagum due to the softer nature of nylon.
Despite their differences, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience. The Gazzew Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing materials ensure a soft and deep sound profile, offering a comfortable typing feel. Similarly, the Durock White Lotus, with its modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, provides a premium typing experience with a distinctive feel. Therefore, although utilizing different materials, both switches strive to create an enjoyable and high-quality typing sensation for users.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Durock White Lotus exhibit differences. The bottom housing of the Bobagum with its "boba plastic" contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing of the White Lotus has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. By understanding the influence of each housing material, users can select a switch based on their desired sound and feel preferences, whether it is a heavier bottom-out impact or a distinct sound when keypresses are released.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are both similarities and differences to note. Both switches have an actuation force of 46 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This ensures a consistent typing experience for users of either switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a distinction. The Bobagum has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly heavier than the White Lotus's 56 grams. This means that when pressing all the way down, the Bobagum switch will require a slightly stronger push compared to the White Lotus switch. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Bobagum's higher bottom out force may be a preferable choice. On the other hand, the White Lotus's slightly lighter bottom out force may be appreciated by those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have different travel distances. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the White Lotus has a travel distance of 4 mm. 4.0mm is the more traditional travel distance, while 3.0mm is the shallower option. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Bobagum an ideal choice in that aspect. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key, the White Lotus with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. So, depending on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness, one can choose either the shorter-traveling Bobagum or the longer-traveling White Lotus for a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gazzew Bobagum switches are best described as muted. This means they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switches have a low-pitched sound profile. This gives them a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. They are also described as having a neutral sound, which means they have a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Overall, both switches offer different sound characteristics, providing options for those who prefer a muted sound or a low-pitched tone.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew Bobagum switches offer a subtle typing experience. They have a gentle resistance that is not too light, maintaining a comfortable and light typing feel. Additionally, the sound signature of these switches is not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switches are described as easy-to-press. They offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The White Lotus switches are also labeled as mild, meaning they provide a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, both switches offer different levels of resistance and typing feel, catering to the preferences of different users.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of the Gazzew Bobagum and Durock White Lotus switches, comparing them reveals distinct differences in sound and feel. The Bobagum switches are best known for their smoothness and unparalleled tactility, offering a nearly silent sound profile and a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches strike the perfect balance between light tactility and ease of pressing, providing a low-pitched sound profile and an easy-to-press feel. These switches are designed to enhance the typing experience without overwhelming the user and also feature a removable light column for vibrant RGB lighting effects. Although they offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches bring unique qualities to the table and can deliver satisfying results depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and almost 'matte' feel with unparalleled tactility, along with a nearly silent sound profile, then the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making it ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user, along with the option for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects, then the Durock White Lotus tactile switch would be the better option.
In terms of sound, the Bobagum switch offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Meanwhile, the White Lotus switch provides a low-pitched sound, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches, creating a tranquil typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Bobagum switch offers a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel without a resonant sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch offers an easy-to-press feel with minimal force required for activation, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus switch also offers a mild typing experience, appealing to a wider range of users due to its approachable qualities.
Ultimately, the choice between Gazzew Bobagum and Durock White Lotus depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Consider the factors of smoothness, sound, and feel that are most important to you, and make your decision accordingly. Both switches have their unique features and benefits, so choose the one that aligns with your typing style and enhances your overall keyboard experience.