Kailh Berry vs. Gazzew Bobagum
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gazzew Bobagum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Berry and the Gazzew Bobagum. The Berry switches are well-known for their linear design, providing a hefty typing experience. They offer a springy feel and a chalk-like texture, resulting in a satisfying typing sensation. Additionally, these switches have a fairly deep sound profile, making them stand out in terms of auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Bobagum switches redefine smoothness with their unique 'matte' feel. Unlike the polished glide of ice-skating or the texture of unlubed switches, the Bobagum switches offer an unparalleled tactility that sets them apart. Furthermore, users can expect a nearly silent sound profile when typing on these bubblegum-colored switches. In summary, the Berry switches prioritize a textured and deep sound experience, while the Bobagum switches focus on smoothness and a muted sound profile. However, let's dive deeper into the specifics so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the Gazzew Bobagum have different housing materials that greatly impact their sound profiles. The Berry features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Bobagum utilizes Gazzew's proprietary blend of plastic, known as "boba plastic." This material delivers a rich and deep sound profile, thanks to its softness. While both materials aim to enhance sound, the Berry's polycarbonate provides a brighter tone, while the Bobagum's blend offers a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Berry's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through. This makes it especially suitable for those who want to incorporate lighting effects into their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Bobagum's proprietary blend is not translucent, thus may not be the ideal choice for users who prioritize RGB lighting. However, for those solely seeking a unique sound experience, the Bobagum's blend offers a distinct richness due to its softness, granting a different auditory sensation compared to the Berry's polycarbonate.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Berry utilizes a nylon material, known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Bobagum employs its proprietary Gazzew blend for the bottom housing, also utilizing its softness to deliver a rich and deep sound. Both switch models prioritize sound quality and utilize softer materials in their bottom housings, resulting in similar sound experiences during the keypress.
In summary, the Kailh Berry and Gazzew Bobagum differ in their housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Berry's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the Bobagum's proprietary blend offers a deeper and richer tone. The nylon bottom housing in the Berry elicits a deeper and fuller sound, similar to the Bobagum's Gazzew blend bottom housing. However, if RGB lighting is a priority, the Berry's translucent polycarbonate top housing is more suitable, whereas the Bobagum's blend focuses solely on sound experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in keyboard customization.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch, there are some notable differences to consider. The Kailh Berry switch has an actuation force that is currently unavailable in terms of grams, while the Bobagum switch has an actuation force of 46 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Kailh Berry switch requires 70 grams of force, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Bobagum switch requires 62 grams, which is categorized as medium.
Considering the weight of the switches is important for a couple of reasons. Those who prefer a lighter weight switch often find it beneficial as it allows them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes it ideal for keyboards used in work environments or during extensive gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals might prefer a switch with a heavier actuation force as it provides a more substantial typing experience, giving them a stronger push feel when pressing the keys.
As the actuation force of the Kailh Berry switch is currently unavailable, it is difficult to make a direct comparison to the Gazzew Bobagum switch. However, both switches fall within the medium range for bottom out force, with the Kailh Berry being slightly heavier at 70 grams and the Bobagum at 62 grams. If the actuation force of the Kailh Berry switch is similar to that of the Gazzew Bobagum, then it would provide a comparable typing experience in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke.
Overall, those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming might lean towards the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Kailh Berry linear switch, assuming its actuation force is similar to the Bobagum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6mm. Therefore, pressing down on either switch will result in a similar distance traveled. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying typing experience as the keys are pressed. The equal travel distance of both switches ensures that users can expect similar tactile feedback and key responsiveness when using keyboards outfitted with either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone during key presses. This results in a deeper and richer sound profile that is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch provides a muted sound experience. The switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used. While the Berry switch has a deeper sound, the Bobagum switch offers a nearly silent sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is described as textured. This means that the switch has noticeable friction when pressed, providing a springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture. On the other hand, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers a subtle feel. It has a gentle resistance that is not feather light but still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the Bobagum switch does not produce a resonant sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces where minimizing noise is important.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch excels in providing a hefty and springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture. It has a deeper and richer sound profile characterized by a lower frequency range. On the other hand, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch offers an unparalleled tactility with an almost 'matte' feel, ensuring smoothness and a light typing feel. It produces a nearly silent sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel. If you enjoy a hefty and springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture, the Berry switch would be the better option for you. The sound profile of the Berry switch is low-pitched and bassy, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a unique tactility, the Bobagum switch would be the ideal choice. It provides an almost 'matte' feel and offers a nearly silent sound profile, making it suitable for shared spaces. The Bobagum switch has a subtler resistance and a gentle typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel.
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