Gazzew Bobagum vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and Wuque Studio WS Pearl stand out as two exceptional linear options, each offering a distinctive typing experience. The Bobagum switches are celebrated for their unique 'matte' feel, delivering a type of smoothness that falls somewhere between the extreme glide of highly polished switches and the rough texture of unlubed options. This results in a muted and subtle sound profile, perfect for those who prefer quieter typing experiences. On the other hand, the WS Pearl switches innovate with their incorporation of ball-bearings, dramatically reducing friction and elevating the smoothness of keystrokes to a surreal level. With a medium-high pitched sound signature, they appeal to users who enjoy a bit more acoustic feedback while typing. Both switches have their merits, making them appealing to different types of typists. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Nylon
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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and Wuque Studio WS Pearl utilize distinct housing materials that play a pivotal role in shaping their acoustic and tactile characteristics. The Bobagum's top housing employs a proprietary blend often referred to as "boba plastic," which is designed to be soft and to produce a rich, resonant sound profile. This softness contributes to the overall depth of sound and enhances the user experience. In comparison, the WS Pearl features a nylon top housing, a material noted for its classic sound qualities. Nylon's inherent softness allows it to absorb sound waves effectively, resulting in a duller yet fuller auditory profile. Although both materials aim for a deeper sound, the source of that depth stems from the different properties of the plastics used in each switch.
When examining the bottom housings, the Gazzew Bobagum remains consistent in its use of "boba plastic," mirroring the attributes of its top housing and bolstering the unified acoustic experience. This uniformity in material suggests that both the top and bottom housings will contribute synergistically to create a smooth and cohesive sound profile. Conversely, the WS Pearl utilizes nylon for its bottom housing as well. As with the top housing, the nylon’s properties allow for sound absorption and enhanced depth, albeit the overall sound quality might differ slightly due to the inherent characteristics of nylon compared to the proprietary blend used in the Bobagum. Thus, while both switches aim for a fuller sound, the sensation and auditory output may diverge given the variations in material.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the two switches contribute to their unique sound profiles, despite both aiming for richness and depth. For typists, this means that the Gazzew Bobagum may produce a slightly more cohesive sound due to its identical housing materials, while the WS Pearl offers a more traditional feel associated with nylon switches. Users can expect similar sound characteristics with both switches, yet those seeking a distinct auditory experience may find slight variations in the tactile feedback and sound emission during keypresses and releases. This interplay between top and bottom housings ultimately crafts a complex feel and sound that enhances the typing experience, making both switches appealing to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The Bobagum switch has an unspecified actuation force, but its bottom out force is measured at 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the WS Pearl boasts a defined actuation force of 30 grams and a slightly stiffer bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium category. This means that the Bobagum requires a force that is not disclosed to actuate, while the WS Pearl is relatively light at 30 grams, offering a more responsive keystroke. The bottom out forces indicate that while the Bobagum provides a comfortable feel at 55 grams, the WS Pearl’s heavier bottom out force of 58 grams delivers a slightly more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter switch may gravitate towards the WS Pearl for its defined actuation force, while those who enjoy a heavier push feel might appreciate the Bobagum, despite its unspecified actuation force. If both switches had similar actuation forces, typists would have comparable tactile responses, enhancing the typing experience regardless of their choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, we find that the Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Pearl measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Bobagum the option with the longer travel distance, providing a more substantial feel with each keystroke, which may appeal to users who prefer deeper, more tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Pearl, with its shorter travel distance, may offer improved responsiveness, ideal for gamers seeking quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for either a deeper feel or faster response times.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00.
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 excels with a nearly silent sound profile, offering a muted experience that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it particularly appealing for users who prefer a quieter setup or work in shared spaces where sound can be an issue. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switch has a medium-high pitched sound signature, which, while not excessively loud, is significantly more pronounced than the subtle tones of the Bobagum. The overall auditory experience of the Bobagum is designed to create a calm environment, while the WS Pearl offers a bit more character to its sound, albeit still on the softer side when compared to more traditional clacky switches.
In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch is renowned for its unique 'matte' smoothness that strikes a balance between slickness and tactile feedback. Its subtle resistance allows for a light typing experience that doesn’t compromise control, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. The WS Pearl switch, featuring ball-bearings to reduce friction, takes smoothness to another level, providing an almost surreal typing experience. Users may find the WS Pearl to be the smoother of the two, yet both options are carefully crafted to deliver a pleasant keystroke experience that prioritizes comfort.
In summary, both the Gazzew Bobagum and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Bobagum is perfect if you prioritize a nearly silent sound profile and a smooth, matte feel, especially in shared environments. On the other hand, if you seek a slightly more audible yet still controlled sound with incredibly low friction, the WS Pearl might be your go-to. Each switch provides a distinct typing experience, and regardless of which you choose, expect a quality performance that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you value a medium-light force with a smooth and muted typing experience, the Bobagum is ideal for you, especially if you're in a shared space where noise is a concern. Its unique 'matte' feel offers an unparalleled tactile experience without the distraction of loud keystrokes. On the other hand, if you're looking for a slightly firmer press with a distinctively smooth feel, thanks to its innovative ball-bearing mechanism, the WS Pearl may be more suited to your tastes. Its medium force and high-pitched sound signature provide a different auditory experience that some typists find satisfying. Thus, consider what aspects of typing you prioritize—be it the feel, sound, or the environment in which you’ll be typing—to guide your decision between these two remarkable switches.
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