Gazzew Bobagum vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red. The Bobagum switch is best known for its redefined smoothness, offering a unique tactile experience with its 'matte' feel. Typing on these bubblegum-colored switches provides an almost silent sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a muted and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly option that delivers a smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics, however, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew Bobagum and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red differ in their housing materials. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic." This unique blend of plastic gives the Bobagum a softness that delivers a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those who intend to use RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend offers a comparable experience to its top housing. The softness of the "boba plastic" in the bottom housing contributes to a rich and deep sound profile when typing on the Bobagum. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red employs a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a traditional material for switch housings and is known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When comparing the overall experience of pressing down and releasing a key, the bottom and top housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the tactile feedback provided by the switch. In contrast, the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the specific materials differ between the Bobagum and the G Pro 3.0 Red, both switches aim to deliver an enhanced typing experience by utilizing housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, there are notable differences. The Bobagum has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Bobagum is noticeably heavier at 62 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be a favorable choice. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a smooth and effortless typing experience. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Bobagum switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force and a significantly heavier bottom out force. This provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. The added resistance gives a satisfying feedback and may be preferred by those seeking a tactile response.
Both switches cater to different preferences. If lighter weight and smoother keypresses are desired, the G Pro 3.0 Red is the ideal option. However, for individuals who enjoy a more robust typing experience with increased resistance, the Bobagum is the better choice. Overall, the weight and force variances between these switches ensure that users can select the one that aligns with their typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch have different travel distances. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bobagum. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, offering a balanced feel between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Bobagum's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm is preferred by gamers who value faster response times. These shorter travel distances have become more prevalent lately. However, it is important to note that while some people appreciate the quick feedback of a shorter travel distance, others may find it too abrupt. Those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Red with its longer travel distance. Both switches have their own advantages and it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing/gaming style when deciding which travel distance is more suitable for an individual's needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, the Bobagum is best known for its nearly silent sound profile. The muted sound of the Bobagum switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, making it ideal for minimizing noise in shared spaces. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it falls in the middle ground, neither too loud nor too quiet, making it suitable for most purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Bobagum switch offers a unique tactile experience. The switch is described as having an almost 'matte' feel, which sets it apart from other switches. It provides a smoothness that is not quite like the polished glide of ice-skating, nor the texture of unlubed switches. This tactile quality makes the Bobagum switch truly one-of-a-kind. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a range of feel qualities. Some descriptors used to describe the G Pro 3.0 Red switch include creamy, mild, polished, and silky. These descriptors indicate that the switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness. The characteristics of the G Pro 3.0 Red switch make it approachable to most users, as it falls within a safe, middle-ground zone.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The Bobagum switch stands out for its unique tactile feel, providing a smoothness that is distinct from other switches. It also offers a nearly silent sound profile, making it a good option for minimizing noise in shared spaces. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a range of feel qualities, including creaminess, mildness, polishedness, and silkiness. It provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction. While the subjective qualities of these switches differ, it is important to note that individual preferences may vary. It is recommended to consider factors such as personal typing style, preference for sound, and desired typing experience when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you're looking for a smooth and almost silent typing experience, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches offer unparalleled tactility and a unique 'matte' feel that sets them apart from other switches on the market. The muted sound profile of the Bobagum switches makes them ideal for shared spaces or for those who prefer a quieter keyboard.
On the other hand, if you want a budget-friendly option that still delivers a smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is a great choice. With a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches strike a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The G Pro 3.0 Red switches also feature a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. The creamy, mild, polished, and silky feel of these switches ensures a smooth and satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew Bobagum and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switches depends on your specific preferences. If you prioritize a unique tactile feel and a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum switches are ideal. However, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a smooth and buttery typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red switches are a great choice. Both switches offer their own advantages, so consider your typing style and preferences before making a decision.
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