Gazzew Bobagum vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options stand out in the linear switch category: the Gazzew Bobagum and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The Bobagum switch is renowned for its smoothness, offering a unique matte texture that provides an unparalleled tactility. Typing on these bubblegum-colored switches is nearly silent, making them perfect for those seeking a muted and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Red switch boasts a 22mm double-stage spring, delivering a bouncy and responsive typing experience. With a classic material blend, these switches maintain a familiar sound signature but offer a heavier actuation force, adding a satisfying weight to each keystroke. Both switches have their own distinct qualities, catering to different preferences. 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
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Upon comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the Wuque Studio WS Red, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Gazzew Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, commonly referred to as "boba plastic," offering a softness that contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. Meanwhile, the WS Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper and fuller sound experience. Therefore, although they differ in materials, both switches aim to deliver a similar result in terms of sound quality and depth.
Similarly, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Gazzew Bobagum employs its proprietary Gazzew blend, known as "boba plastic," to achieve a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Meanwhile, the WS Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which shares similar characteristics with its top housing. Both housing materials aim to create a duller and rounder sound by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, despite their differences, the Gazzew Bobagum and WS Red both strive to provide a satisfying sound experience through their bottom housings.
It is worth noting that the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in determining the overall sound and feel. When typing on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel upon pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Gazzew Bobagum and the WS Red may have varying materials for their top and bottom housings, their overall goal of delivering an enhanced typing experience remains the same.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams, while the WS Red's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium level actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Bobagum requires 62 grams of force, while the WS Red has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Bobagum, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This makes it a great option for those who use their keyboard for work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience might opt for a switch with a heavier actuation or bottom out force. In this case, the WS Red's heavier bottom out force would be a suitable choice.
Overall, both switches provide a medium level actuation force, making them comparable in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the WS Red offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more solid and robust typing feel. So, while the Bobagum is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force, the WS Red offers a slightly heavier typing experience, providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer it.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both of these switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Bobagum with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, the WS Red with its longer travel distance may be the better option. It is important to consider personal preference and typing style when choosing between these switches.
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 Red comes in at $3.50.
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 glide of ice-skating or the texture of unlubed switches. This switch provides an unparalleled level of smoothness and a nearly silent sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is characterized by its bouncy and responsive typing experience. It features a 22mm double-stage spring and a classic material blend that delivers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. The WS Red switch has a familiar sound signature, although the exact details of its sound are not mentioned. Overall, the Bobagum switch focuses on smoothness and a quiet sound profile, while the WS Red switch emphasizes a bouncy and responsive typing experience.
Unfortunately, there is no information provided about the sound qualities of the WS Red switch. However, it should be noted that the sound of any switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Similarly, for the feel of the switches, only the Bobagum switch is described as having a subtle resistance and a light typing feel, with no resonant sound signature mentioned. The feel of the WS Red switch is unknown based on the given information.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum and Wuque Studio WS Red switches offer different subjective qualities. The Bobagum switch excels in smoothness, offering a unique matte-like feel and a nearly silent sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Red switch provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force and a satisfying typing feel. While the specific sound qualities of the WS Red switch and the overall feel of both switches remain unknown, it is clear that these switches can deliver different typing experiences. If you enjoy the smoothness and quietness of the Bobagum switch, you may find similar qualities in the WS Red switch, although the specific results may vary.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and almost 'matte' feel with unparalleled tactility and a nearly silent sound profile, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is the way to go. Its medium bottom out force of 62 grams provides a comfortable typing experience with a touch of weight to each keystroke. The muted sound profile of the Bobagum makes it ideal for minimizing noise in shared spaces.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is the better choice. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and a 22mm double-stage spring, the WS Red offers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. Though the sound profile of the WS Red is not specified, its classic material blend is expected to deliver a familiar and pleasant sound.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gazzew Bobagum and the Wuque Studio WS Red depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize smoothness, tactility, and a muted sound, go for the Bobagum. If you prefer a bouncier typing experience with a heavier touch and potentially a more classic sound, choose the WS Red. Both switches offer their own unique features and can enhance your typing experience based on your individual needs. In the end, consider testing them out or seeking further recommendations to find the best fit for you.