Gazzew Bobagum vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Gazzew Bobagum and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gazzew Bobagum and the TKC Tangerine are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities for an enhanced typing experience. The Bobagum is best known for its unparalleled tactility, redefining smoothness with an almost 'matte' feel. These bubblegum-colored switches provide a muted and subtle sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches are all about taking your typing experience to the next level. With their incredibly smooth feel, each keystroke is a pleasure to type. The use of UHWMPE housings sets them apart, providing a frictionless and buttery experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14.5mm Korean spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew Bobagum and the TKC Tangerine switches offer distinct characteristics when it comes to sound profile. The Bobagum features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing that is sometimes referred to as "boba plastic." This material's softness contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch incorporates a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that produces a bright sound signature. This results in resonant clacks when typing on switches with such housings. While both materials have unique sound profiles, they bring different qualities to the typing experience.
Similarly, the housing materials for the bottom portion of the switches differ between the Bobagum and the Tangerine. The Bobagum employs the same proprietary Gazzew blend as its top housing, delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Conversely, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE bottom housing, which offers a brighter sound signature. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. Therefore, the Bobagum would provide a softer and more muffled bottom-out sound, while the Tangerine would produce a crisper and more resonant sound.
Despite the differences in their respective housing materials, both the Bobagum and the Tangerine switches contribute to an enjoyable typing experience. The softness of the Bobagum's Gazzew blend top and bottom housings creates a soothing and deep sound profile, generating a quieter and more relaxed typing experience. On the other hand, the UHWMPE materials used in the Tangerine switches produce a brighter sound, resulting in a more lively and pronounced auditory feedback when typing. While the sound characteristics may vary, both switches offer a unique and satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Bobagum is lighter with an actuation force of 46 grams, while the Tangerine's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
Weight is an important consideration when choosing a switch as it affects typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Bobagum, as it allows for longer typing sessions and is suitable for work or prolonged gaming. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience might prefer a switch with a heavier actuation force.
Although we don't have the exact actuation force for the Tangerine, with both switches having the same bottom out force, it is likely that the Tangerine will provide a similar typing experience in terms of bottoming out. However, without knowledge of the actuation force, it is difficult to determine if the Tangerine will offer a lighter or heavier push feel compared to the Bobagum. Overall, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Bobagum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Tangerine has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the Bobagum is the shorter option, providing a slightly quicker keystroke compared to the Tangerine. This can be advantageous for users seeking enhanced responsiveness. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Bobagum to feel too abrupt, and they may prefer the slightly deeper feel of the Tangerine. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for either a shorter and more responsive keystroke or a slightly longer and more substantial keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew Bobagum comes in at $6.50, whereas the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30.
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 offers a nearly silent typing experience. These switches have a muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter keystrokes compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a high-pitched clack when typing on them, which produces a sharp and crisp sound. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, the Tangerine switches would be a better choice for you. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew Bobagum switch offers a unique tactile experience. These switches have a smoothness that can be compared to a matte surface, providing an unparalleled level of tactility. The typing feel is gentle and subtle, with a light resistance. The sound signature of the Bobagum switches is also not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch offers a frictionless and buttery typing experience. These switches are incredibly smooth and effortless to press, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. The Tangerine switches provide a fluid travel and offer a uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Tangerine switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bobagum switch provides a nearly silent sound profile and a subtle, gentle typing feel. The Tangerine switch, on the other hand, has a high-pitched clack sound and a frictionless, buttery typing experience. Both switches offer smoothness, although the Bobagum has a "matte" feel while the Tangerine has a polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a unique tactile feel, the Bobagum switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a sharper sound and a frictionless, buttery typing experience, the Tangerine switch would be a better fit.
Conclusion
In closing, to sum up, when choosing between the Gazzew Bobagum linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a unique and unparalleled tactility paired with a nearly silent sound profile, the Bobagum is the switch for you. Its medium bottom out force of 62 grams provides a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, if you value an incredibly smooth feel and a high-pitched clack when typing, the Tangerine is the way to go. Its UHWMPE housing sets it apart from other switches and delivers a pleasurable typing experience. Consider your sound preferences as well, with the Bobagum offering a muted sound profile while the Tangerine produces a sharp and crisp high-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Bobagum provides a subtle resistance and a sound signature suitable for shared spaces, while the Tangerine offers a frictionless, buttery, and polished typing experience. Overall, choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to your specific preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
