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Akko Botany vs. Bsun Ragdoll

An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Botany is celebrated for its lively, crisp, and clacky sound right from the start, adding a satisfying auditory feedback to each keystroke, which many typists and gamers appreciate for its engaging sound profile. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll focuses on a remarkably smooth key travel thanks to its Y3 stem and the nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which provides a subtly clacky sound while prioritizing a gentler tactile experience. Both switches are designed to enhance typing pleasure, making them great options for different users; while the Botany attracts those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback, the Ragdoll is ideal for those seeking a smooth and quiet experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

38g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

45g

Bottom-out force

52g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Total travel

3.80 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

Nylon Pro

Stem material

Y3

Top housing material

Nylon

Top housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel spring

Spring

21mm single-stage spring

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Akko Botany and Bsun Ragdoll are strikingly similar, as both models utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This shared choice of nylon as the primary material emphasizes a classic design approach that aims to deliver a refined typing experience. The auditory profile produced by both switches is notably deeper and fuller, which can be attributed to nylon’s inherent properties as a softer plastic. This quality allows both switch designs to absorb sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder sound output that is often sought after by users who prefer a less harsh auditory experience while typing.

While the top and bottom housings in both the Botany and Ragdoll are made from the same material, any potential differences in their behavior when pressed can be attributed to their specific designs and engineering choices rather than the materials themselves. Each housing plays a unique role in the switch's overall function: the bottom housing is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing influences the sound generated when releasing a key. Since both the Botany and Ragdoll utilize nylon in both areas, users can expect to receive a consistently plush and muted sound profile regardless of which switch they choose. This consistency in material ensures that the qualities of typing experience across both switches remain aligned, even if other factors—like design or spring tension—vary.

Ultimately, users will find that both the Akko Botany and Bsun Ragdoll switches offer a comparable typing experience, thanks to their identical nylon housing material. The decision on which switch to use may then come down to aesthetic preferences or other characteristics that might distinguish the models. Since both provide similar auditory feedback and tactile response due to their shared nylon components, it becomes evident how the qualities of a switch can remain consistent, manifesting in a harmonious typing experience across different products that share the same foundational material.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko Botany features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll requires a higher actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 52 grams, which results in a more substantial typing feel. Consequently, the Ragdoll, being the heavier option, might appeal to users who prefer a firmer tactile experience. Overall, for those who favor a lighter switch for prolonged use, the Botany would be the better choice, while the Ragdoll caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced pressing sensation.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Botany switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ragdoll switch extends slightly further with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Consequently, the Akko Botany is the shorter of the two switches, catering to those who may appreciate quicker response times that can be advantageous in gaming scenarios. Conversely, the Bsun Ragdoll’s longer travel distance might appeal more to users who prefer a more substantial feel with each keystroke, providing a depth that can enhance tactile feedback. Thus, your choice between the two would hinge on your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Akko Botany has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Botany for $3.11.

The Bsun Ragdoll has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ragdoll for $3.29.

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

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany switch is known for producing a crisp, lively clacky sound that is quite appealing for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. This characteristic makes it an engaging option for users who appreciate a more pronounced sound profile. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll switch features a clacky sound resulting from its Y3 stem and nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, aimed at providing a pleasing acoustic experience as well. While both switches offer distinctive sounds, the overall auditory impact will still largely depend on the specific keyboard build, including factors like the type of board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany switch is recognized for its smooth linear action, which contributes to a satisfying typing experience that allows for effortless key presses. This smoothness could be particularly appealing to users who prefer a more fluid typing sensation without tactile bumps or clicks. On the flip side, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, while also smooth due to its Y3 stem, emphasizes a responsive travel without any resistance typically found in tactile switches. Both switches align closely in their linear characteristics, which ultimately results in a consistent feel across both options.

In conclusion, both the Akko Botany and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches offer unique sound and feel experiences that appeal to different preferences. The Botany boasts a crisp clacky sound with a smooth and fluid feel, while the Ragdoll also offers a clacky sound but emphasizes smooth travel and responsiveness. These switches deliver similar results in terms of their linear qualities, making either a solid choice for someone seeking a linear typing experience with some auditory feedback. Ultimately, the best option will depend on individual preferences and the specific keyboard setup, as both switches can shine in the right environment.

Conclusion

To conclude, selecting between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a crisp, lively sound that adds character to your typing experience, the Botany switches might be the right choice for you. These switches provide an engaging tactile feedback while keeping your fingers nimble and agile, making them ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming where quick reactions are critical. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly heavier feel and are seeking a switch that offers a smooth travel experience combined with a distinct clacky sound, the Ragdoll switches would be better suited for you. Their medium-light bottom-out force along with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing ensures a pleasant sound profile alongside consistent performance. In essence, go for Akko Botany if you value a lively auditory feedback and lighter actuation, while opt for Bsun Ragdoll if you favor a more robust typing feel with smooth travel and a unique sound.

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