Gazzew Bobagum vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum and the Aflion Windy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct features that set them apart. The Bobagum offers a unique smoothness with a tactile feel that is described as 'matte', providing a silent typing experience in a bubblegum-colored switch. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow by Aflion boasts a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring and a comfortable 55g bottom-out weight. While the Bobagum is categorized as 'Muted' and 'Subtle', the Windy Shadow falls under 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gazzew Bobagum and the Aflion Windy Shadow use proprietary materials in their top housing, but with different results. The Bobagum utilizes a Gazzew blend plastic that delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, while the Windy Shadow opts for a polycarbonate material that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This means that the Bobagum will provide a more mellow typing experience, while the Windy Shadow will offer a more precise and clear sound when typing.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend once again delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, while the Windy Shadow uses nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The difference lies in the absorption of sound, with the softer Gazzew blend absorbing less sound and creating a clearer sound, while the nylon absorbs more sound resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Depending on preference, users may lean towards the Bobagum for a crisper sound or the Windy Shadow for a deeper sound experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gazzew Bobagum and the Aflion Windy Shadow comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Bobagum's Gazzew blend material lends itself to a softer and richer sound, while the Windy Shadow's polycarbonate and nylon materials provide a sharper and deeper sound experience respectively. Both top and bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, users should consider their sound preferences and typing style when choosing between these two housing materials.
Weight
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch features a slightly lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow, which does not specify an actuation force. However, the Gazzew Bobagum requires a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Windy Shadow has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Bobagum provides a bit more resistance during bottoming out, which may cater to those seeking a more substantial typing experience, while the Windy Shadow offers a lighter touch for smoother typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. In this case, the Bobagum has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow. The Bobagum's 3.6mm distance may provide a bit more depth to the key press, while the Windy Shadow's 3.5mm distance may offer a slightly quicker response time. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key depth versus speed of response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Windy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Windy Shadow for $3.91.
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 linear switch is designed to provide a nearly silent typing experience with a muted sound profile, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter environment. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, catering to a wider range of users who appreciate a more mellow tone without compromising on tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Bobagum being more muted and the Windy Shadow offering a slightly more pronounced tone.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Gazzew Bobagum switch is praised for its smooth and almost matte texture that offers unparalleled tactility, creating a unique typing experience for users. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch is described as providing a mild and gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of resistance and feedback. Both switches offer distinct tactile characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Bobagum leaning towards a smoother and more textured feel while the Windy Shadow provides a softer and more approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience for users. While the Bobagum provides a nearly silent sound profile with a smooth and textured feel, the Windy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound with a mild and gentle typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and tactile feedback, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience that meets the needs of different users. Ultimately, whether you choose the Bobagum or the Windy Shadow, you can expect similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and performance.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the bottom out force and sound profile that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a unique tactile experience and a muted sound profile, the Bobagum may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a neutral sound profile and a more gentle typing experience, the Windy Shadow could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics that align with your desired typing experience.
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