Gazzew Bobagum vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Grapefruit. Both switches offer unique features and benefits that make them popular among keyboard enthusiasts. The Bobagum switch is best known for its unparalleled smoothness and almost 'matte' feel, providing a tactile experience that is truly one of a kind. Additionally, these bubblegum-colored switches offer a nearly silent sound profile, making them perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch is highly regarded for its soft and light typing feel, complemented by a "baritone" yet not overpowering sound profile. This linear switch is categorized as low-pitched and neutral, offering a polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you choose the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the KTT Grapefruit switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles. The Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials enhance the sound quality, the Bobagum switch focuses on delivering a softer and more mellow tone, while the Grapefruit switch emphasizes a sharper and more defined auditory experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the difference between the two housing materials becomes apparent. The Bobagum switch maintains a solid and opaque appearance, while the Grapefruit switch incorporates a translucent polycarbonate top housing. This allows the Grapefruit switch to take advantage of RGB lighting, as the clarity of polycarbonate enhances the illumination effect. However, both switches offer their own unique visual appeal, catering to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Bobagum's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing shares similarities with its top housing. It delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, complementing the overall tone of the switch. Conversely, the Grapefruit switch features a nylon bottom housing, a classic material choice known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Thus, while both housing materials enhance the sound quality, the Bobagum switch provides a consistent softness throughout, and the Grapefruit switch contributes to a slightly more muted and rounded sound.
It is important to note that if a switch utilizes different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the press and release actions. The bottom housing mainly influences the bottom-out sound and feel upon pressing a key, while the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Bobagum and Grapefruit switches differ in housing materials, they both provide distinctive and desirable auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Bobagum has an actuation force of 46 grams, slightly heavier than the Grapefruit's 45 grams. Both switches have a medium level of actuation force, meaning that they require a moderate amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bobagum is heavier with 62 grams, while the Grapefruit has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that when fully pressing the key down, the Bobagum switch provides a more substantial typing experience compared to the Grapefruit, which offers a slightly lighter feel.
Weight is an important consideration in switches, as it affects typing comfort and endurance. Some individuals prefer lighter switches like the Grapefruit, as they allow for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue, which is ideal for professional settings or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Bobagum switch, as its heavier bottom out force provides a more satisfying and substantial typing experience.
Overall, while both the Bobagum and Grapefruit switches have similar actuation forces, the Bobagum is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. Depending on individual preference, one can choose between a lighter and a heavier typing experience, ensuring optimal comfort and enjoyment while using a keyboard.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch have different travel distances. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Grapefruit has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Grapefruit has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bobagum.
In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is considered the most common, while 3.0 mm is seen as the shallowest. However, there has been a rise in popularity for shorter travel distances, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you are someone who values responsiveness, opting for a switch with a shorter travel distance like the Bobagum would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to be too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance like the Grapefruit for a more satisfying typing experience with more depth. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth one seeks.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41.
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 switch offers a muted sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. The sound is minimized to reduce the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch is described as low-pitched. This means that it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Grapefruit switch is considered neutral, making it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. 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 Gazzew Bobagum switch provides a unique tactile experience. It has an almost 'matte' feel that redefines smoothness. It's not as polished or slippery as ice-skating, nor does it have the texture of unlubed switches. Instead, it offers a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel. The sound signature of the Bobagum switch is also not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch is described as polished. This indicates that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The polished switch surface, combined with any additional factory lubing, reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum and KTT Grapefruit switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bobagum switch provides a nearly silent sound profile and a unique tactile experience with its 'matte' smoothness and gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch has a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It offers a polished feel with smooth and refined key travel. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. However, if you are seeking a quieter typing experience, the Bobagum switch would be a better choice, while the Grapefruit switch is suitable for those who prefer a low-pitched and polished typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you value a switch that offers unparalleled tactility and a nearly silent sound profile, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch is the one for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these bubblegum-colored switches redefine smoothness, offering a unique 'matte' feel. They are best suited for shared spaces as the subtle resistance and non-resonant sound signature make them suitable for typing in quiet environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a soft and light typing feel with a polished finish, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is your ideal choice. With a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches provide a "baritone" deep sound profile and a sleek typing experience. They are versatile switches suitable for beginners and advanced users alike, whether you plan to use them at home or work. Ultimately, the decision between the Bobagum and Grapefruit switches depends on your preferences for tactility, sound, and typing feel.
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