Gazzew Bobagum vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) present two distinct yet enticing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The Bobagum switches are celebrated for their unique 'matte' feel, striking a harmonious balance between smoothness and texture, creating an unparalleled typing experience without the harshness of unlubed switches. Their nearly silent operation makes them an appealing choice for those who prefer a discreet environment. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches offer a more robust tactile sensation, featuring a softer acoustics profile thanks to their PA12 top housing, paired with a POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched sound. This creates a striking blend of subtle sophistication and enhanced performance, ideal for gamers and typists who appreciate auditory feedback as much as tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference—whether you value a muted, smooth feel or a crisper, more resonant typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches exhibit both similarities and differences that can significantly influence their overall acoustic properties. The top housing of the Bobagum utilizes a proprietary blend known as "boba plastic," which is renowned for its softness and ability to create a rich and deep sound profile. This characteristic aligns with the nylon material used in the Xinhai (Heavy) top housing. Nylon is traditionally regarded as a classic for switch housing, valued for its soft texture that contributes to a fuller sound. Although the specific materials differ, the focus on softness in both top housing styles suggests that users may experience similar audio qualities when typing, primarily characterized by a rounder and more dulcet sound.
When examining the bottom housing, the comparisons remain consistent. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend, mirroring its top housing properties with its soft composition that amplifies the switch's rich sound profile. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai (Heavy) also prioritizes softness, promising a deeper, fuller resonance. This congruence in the bottom housing materials indicates that, despite a difference in specific material branding, both switches are engineered to deliver a similar auditory experience. Thus, while different materials are utilized, the inherent qualities—both in the Bobagum's boba plastic and the Xinhai's nylon—serve the same purpose of softening sound feedback, allowing for a comparable acoustic performance upon keystrokes.
Overall, the synergy between the top and bottom housings in both switch designs impacts the user experience distinctly yet comparably. While pressing down on each switch primarily showcases the characteristics of the bottom housing—providing physical feedback and sound during the bottom-out—the top housing influences the sound generated during release. Given that both the Bobagum and Xinhai (Heavy) prioritize softer materials known for enhancing sound absorption, users can expect relatively similar acoustic results. The choices of proprietary Gazzew plastic and nylon ultimately aim to enrich the auditory feedback inherent in mechanical switches, allowing for a tailored but aligned experience across both models.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch with the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The Bobagum lacks a specified actuation force, which makes it challenging to draw direct comparisons in that regard. However, its bottom-out force of 55 grams positions it as a medium-light option. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) has a clearly defined actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. This means that the Xinhai (Heavy) requires a stronger push to initiate a keystroke, offering a more substantial typing experience than the Bobagum, whose actuation force remains unknown. In terms of weight, the Bobagum is the lighter option based on its bottom-out force, making it potentially more comfortable for prolonged use, while the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a firmer resistance, appealing to those who favor a heavier feel in their typing experience. Overall, users who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Bobagum, while those seeking a stronger push will likely prefer the Xinhai (Heavy).
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Bobagum requires a bit more downward travel before it registers a keypress compared to the Xinhai (Heavy), which may result in a more pronounced tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Gamers seeking quick response times might lean towards the Xinhai (Heavy) due to its shorter travel distance, which could facilitate faster key actuations. However, for users who enjoy a meatier feel in their keystrokes, the Bobagum's longer travel distance might be more appealing. Thus, while both switches cater to specific preferences, the Bobagum offers a more substantial depth, and the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a snappier action.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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 characterized by a muted profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. This switch minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, resulting in a soft and pleasant sound that contributes to a more serene environment. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is known for its unique construction, which includes a PA12 top housing that provides a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the Xinhai may not be described as muted, it offers subtle sophistication that can be appealing, particularly in a workspace setting. Ultimately, both switches have the potential to create satisfying acoustic landscapes, albeit in different tonal qualities.
In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch stands out for its remarkable smoothness, characterized by an almost 'matte' sensation. This allows for a typing experience that is neither excessively slick nor too textured, providing a gentle resistance that is both subtle and comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch does not have a specific feel described, leaving its tactile characteristics somewhat uncertain. However, the heavy variant might imply a firmer resistance that could cater to typists who prefer stronger feedback, which could complement the delicate sound profile it offers.
In summary, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is an attractive option for those who favor a muted, smooth typing experience with a refined feel, making it ideal for shared spaces. Meanwhile, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch provides a contrast in sound and potential feel, with its crisp acoustics and possibly firmer resistance, appealing to those who appreciate a more distinct auditory experience. Both switches can provide enjoyable typing experiences, each catering to different preferences in sound and touch, so users can ultimately choose based on their desired balance of these qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you prefer a smooth, almost matte typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the Bobagum is an excellent choice, especially if you value a quieter environment while you work or game. Its muted sound profile and subtle resistance make it ideal for shared spaces, where you want to minimize noise without sacrificing feel. Conversely, if you lean towards a bit more resistance in your keystrokes, the Xinhai (Heavy) with its 62.5-gram bottom-out force will provide a firmer, more deliberate typing feel. This switch also offers a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, making it suitable for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback while typing, although it is still designed to maintain a sophisticated sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should reflect how you prioritize typing feel, sound, and the typing experience you desire.
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