Gazzew Bobagum vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gazzew Bobagum and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, two mechanical keyboard switches that each bring their own unique qualities to the table. The Bobagum switch is renowned for its unparalleled tactility and smoothness, giving users a typing experience akin to gliding on ice. With a muted and subtle sound profile, these bubblegum-colored switches provide a near-silent experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion switch stands out with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, providing a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. Users of the Wuque Studio Onions can expect a crisp and responsive feel, along with a neutral sound profile. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities, making them enticing options for keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
63.5g
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
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the Wuque Studio WS Onion have different housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," which is known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the WS Onion utilizes polycarbonate in its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it suitable for RGB lighting. While the Bobagum's top housing focuses on a softer and more resonant sound, the WS Onion emphasizes clarity and brightness.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile, similar to its top housing. The softness of this plastic blend absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In comparison, the WS Onion utilizes nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer nature helps absorb more sound, enhancing the overall depth and richness of the switch's sound.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound and feel of a switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more noticeable, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. In this aspect, the Gazzew Bobagum's bottom housing with its softer plastic blend would impart a more cushioned and subdued experience. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Here, the WS Onion's polycarbonate top housing would provide a more crisp and vibrant sound when keys are let go.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Wuque Studio WS Onion offer distinct housing materials that result in different sound profiles. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend delivers a softer, richer, and deeper sound, both in its top and bottom housings. Conversely, the WS Onion utilizes polycarbonate in its top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while its nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. While their sound characteristics differ, both switches showcase the influence of their respective housing materials on the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the WS Onion is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, the bottom out force of the WS Onion is slightly higher at 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.
Considering the weight of the switches, it is worth noting that the lighter weight can be beneficial for those who prefer to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. It allows for less strain on the fingers and wrists. In this regard, the Bobagum might be the preferred choice as it has a slightly lighter actuation force.
However, some individuals may prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. For these users, a heavier force can provide a satisfying tactile response. In this case, the WS Onion with its medium-heavy bottom out force might be a suitable option.
Ultimately, it is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches. While the actuation force and bottom out force may differ between the Bobagum and the WS Onion, both switches still offer a similar typing experience in terms of force required for keystrokes, allowing users to achieve comparable results.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch are not the same. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Onion has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the WS Onion falls within the more common range of 4.0 mm, while the Bobagum is slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Bobagum, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more pronounced feel when pressing a key may lean towards the WS Onion with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a muted sound profile, which means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience and for shared spaces where noise might be a concern. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound level. It is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and can be used at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a unique tactile experience. It has a nearly silent typing experience with a smooth, matte-like feel. The switch provides a gentle resistance that is not too light but still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the sound signature of the Bobagum switch is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is described as buttery and polished. This indicates that the switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The WS Onions provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation due to their smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This implies reduced friction and smooth key travel with these switches.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bobagum provides a muted sound profile, while the WS Onions have a neutral sound profile. The Bobagum switch offers a subtle feel with a unique tactile experience and nearly silent operation, while the WS Onions provide a buttery and polished feel with smooth and fluid key presses. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but with different characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a unique tactile experience, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is the one for you. These switches redefine smoothness with their 'matte' feel and offer unparalleled tactility. Additionally, they provide a nearly silent sound profile, making them ideal for quiet environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a buttery smooth keystroke feel, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch would be a great choice. These switches feature a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a crisp and responsive typing experience. They also have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of purposes. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs.
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